NH
New Hampshire Senate Bill SB239
New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session
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New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

New Hampshire Senate Bill SB239

Introduced
1/24/23  
Refer
1/24/23  
Report Pass
3/9/23  
Report Pass
3/22/23  
Engrossed
4/7/23  
Refer
4/7/23  

Caption

Relative to the use of harm reduction services to treat alcohol and other substance misuse.

Impact

The enactment of SB239 would significantly impact state laws related to substance use treatment and prevention, aligning them more closely with harm reduction principles. By incorporating recommendations from the governor's commission on alcohol and other drugs, the bill systematically integrates practices aimed at reducing harm associated with drug use. This includes the establishment of statewide access points for treatment services that would be funded at least in part through federal grants, ensuring ongoing resources for these vital public health initiatives.

Summary

Senate Bill 239, known as the Harm Reduction Services Act, aims to enhance the response to alcohol and substance misuse through the establishment of various statewide programs focused on harm reduction. The bill codifies the Doorways program, which serves as a point of entry for delivering substance use services, including screening, treatment referrals, and peer recovery support. It also expands the existing syringe services program to further support individuals affected by substance misuse and improve public health outcomes in New Hampshire.

Contention

Despite its supportive premise, SB239 has faced criticism due to potential challenges associated with federal funding variability and the execution of harm reduction strategies. Opponents are concerned that an overreliance on federal grants may leave the state vulnerable, particularly if these funds diminish in future years. Supporters argue that the expansion of treatment resources is crucial, while critics emphasize the need for adequate oversight and permanency in funding to sustain these essential programs over time.

Latest NH SB239 Activity

View All Events: NH 2023 Regular Session SB239

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB73

Relative to harm reduction, substance misuse, and the governor's commission on alcohol and drug abuse prevention, treatment, and recovery.

NH HB751

Requiring licensure of outpatient substance use disorder treatment facilities and relative to complaint investigation of treatment facilities by the department of health and human services office of the ombudsman and making an appropriation therefor.

NH HB1328

(New Title) relative to alcohol and other drug use professionals and relative to the qualifications to obtain certain occupational licenses.

NH HB1434

Alcohol misuse prevention and treatment fund.

NH A09001

Directs the commissioner of the office of alcoholism and substance abuse services to establish a program for individuals to receive free drug test strips to detect the presence of medetomidine, benzodiazepine, nitazenes, and/or other harmful contaminants; directs the commissioner of the office of alcoholism and substance abuse services, in cooperation with the commissioner of the department of health, to develop and conduct a public awareness and educational campaign on the dangers of medetomidine, benzodiazepine, nitazenes, and/or other harmful contaminants.

NH SB123

requiring coverage of ear acupuncture as a treatment for substance misuse under the state Medicaid plan.

NH A4798

Establishes Office of Alcohol and Drug Use Disorders Policy to oversee, direct, and coordinate resources, funding, and data tracking concerning treatment of substance use disorders.

NH SB422

relative to membership of the governor's commission on addiction, treatment, and prevention.

NH SB610

Relating to funding for substance use services.

NH S09221

Directs the commissioner of the office of alcoholism and substance abuse services to establish a program for individuals to receive free drug test strips to detect the presence of medetomidine, benzodiazepine, nitazenes, and/or other harmful contaminants; directs the commissioner of the office of alcoholism and substance abuse services, in cooperation with the commissioner of the department of health, to develop and conduct a public awareness and educational campaign on the dangers of medetomidine, benzodiazepine, nitazenes, and/or other harmful contaminants.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.