Bill > SB957

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for creating overdose prevention centers (OPCs) in Hawaii, addressing the rising drug overdose deaths in the state. The legislation allows the Director of Health to designate facilities where people can safely use pre-obtained drugs under supervised conditions and receive harm reduction services, such as education, wound care, clean injection equipment, drug testing, and referrals to health and social services. The bill provides legal immunity for participants and staff from criminal prosecution for drug possession and use within these designated centers, with specific restrictions like maintaining a minimum distance from schools and playgrounds. The centers must meet strict standards for safety, security, and personnel, including continuous video monitoring and background checks for staff. An Overdose Prevention Center Oversight Committee will be established to monitor the centers' effectiveness, and each center must submit annual reports detailing participant demographics, overdose incidents, emergency service interactions, and referrals to other services. The goal is to reduce fatal overdoses, prevent the transmission of bloodborne diseases, decrease public drug use, and connect drug users with support services, drawing on successful models from other countries and jurisdictions that have implemented similar harm reduction strategies.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=957&year=2026