Bill > SB00195

This bill establishes a pilot program for overdose prevention centers, which are community-based facilities where individuals with substance use disorder can receive counseling, test substances for dangerous components using test strips or other technology, learn about opioid antagonists and disease prevention, get referrals to treatment, and access basic support services like laundry and showers. Crucially, these centers will also allow individuals to safely consume controlled substances under the observation of licensed healthcare providers who can intervene in case of an overdose. The program, overseen by the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) in consultation with the Department of Public Health, will be implemented in four selected municipalities and will not use state funds, relying instead on donations and grants. The bill also amends existing law to exempt the establishment of harm reduction centers and overdose prevention centers under this pilot program from requiring a "certificate of need," which is a state approval process for certain healthcare facility projects. A licensed healthcare provider administering an opioid antagonist at an overdose prevention center will be protected from liability and disciplinary action. The DMHAS commissioner may establish an advisory committee with diverse representation to provide recommendations on the pilot program's operation, and the commissioner must report on the program's progress and any legislative recommendations by January 1, 2028.

Health and Social Services

Public Health Committee (Joint)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=SB00195&which_year=2026