Bill > S00056

This bill establishes a comprehensive drug checking services program through the New York State Department of Health to help reduce harm associated with unregulated drug use. The program will allow individuals to have their drugs tested for contaminants, toxic substances, and hazardous compounds using advanced technologies like infrared and Raman spectrophotometers. The department will create a system for providing harm reduction advice, testing drug samples, advising individuals of test results, and safely disposing of tested substances. The bill includes important protections for participants, such as exempting them from criminal prosecution and professional disciplinary actions related to drug possession when participating in the program. Additionally, the program will conduct public health surveillance to monitor trends in the unregulated drug supply, serving as an early warning system for potential health emergencies and informing public health policy. Critically, the bill mandates that personal information of individuals using the drug checking services will not be collected or disclosed, and test results cannot be used as evidence in criminal or civil proceedings unless submitted by the individual themselves. This approach aims to reduce drug-related harm by providing a safe, non-punitive environment for individuals to learn about the composition of their substances and make more informed decisions about drug use.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S56