Bill > HB2319

This bill amends Virginia law to expand the exception for drug testing products in the definitions of drug paraphernalia and controlled paraphernalia. Currently, the law only exempts narcotic testing products used to determine the presence of fentanyl or fentanyl analogs. The bill broadens this exception to include drug checking products that can determine the presence or concentration of any contaminant that could potentially cause physical harm or death. This means that testing tools designed to identify dangerous substances or adulterants in drugs would no longer be classified as illegal drug paraphernalia. The modification is significant because it provides a legal pathway for harm reduction efforts, allowing individuals and organizations to use testing tools that can help prevent overdoses and other health risks associated with contaminated drugs. The bill maintains the existing penalties for drug paraphernalia (a Class 1 misdemeanor) but creates a specific carve-out for these safety-oriented testing products.

Education, Health and Social Services

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB2319