Massachusetts Lawmakers Approve Bill Allowing Safe Injection Facilities For Illegal Drugs

A Massachusetts legislative committee recently approved a bill that would legalize safe injection sites where individuals could consume illicit drugs in a medically supervised environment and receive resources to seek treatment. The objective of these facilities is harm reduction. People could safely inject drugs with access to sterilized needles—without the fear of being arrested and incarcerated—and medical professionals could administer lifesaving medication in the event of an overdose. Individuals would also be able to consult with staff about substance misuse treatment options. Earlier this month, the Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Recovery approved the legislation, which had been redrafted from an earlier, less far-reaching proposal. Under the measure, the state Department of Public Health would be tasked with establishing a minimum of two safe injection facilities for a 10-year pilot program. The department would have to create a licensing scheme for the sites, and local boards of health would have to agree to allow them to operate in their jurisdictions. “The department of public health shall promulgate rules and regulations necessary for the operation of a supervised consumption site, including but not limited to, establishing a process to apply for licensure,” the text of the bill states. “Entities that provide health and social services, including private organizations and municipal departments, shall be eligible to apply for licensure to operate a supervised consumption site.” Each safe consumption facility would have to provide sanitized spaces, injection supplies and harm reduction consultations. They would also have to ensure that individuals…

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Source : MJ moment
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