Harm Reduction Center Pilot Program Extension (H 5044, S 26)

We supported this bill which would extend the pilot program for Harm Reduction Centers for an additional two years in order to allow time for the centers to open and demonstrate their utility.

The passage of the Harm Reduction Center Pilot Program in 2021 was strongly supported by the ACLU because providing a safe and medically supervised environment can reduce the drug toll from drug overdoses, curb involvement in the criminal justice system for individuals with substance use disorder, and serve as a critical entry-point for offering and affording individuals treatment. This bill, which was signed into law, extends the pilot program for two years in order to allow time for the centers to open and demonstrate their utility.