H 1736 Massachusetts House · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

An Act decriminalizing fentanyl test strips

This bill amends Massachusetts law to remove criminal penalties for possessing fentanyl test strips. It specifically updates the legal definition of prohibited items to include these testing products, which are used to detect dangerous levels of fentanyl in substances before consumption. The change directly affects individuals who currently face potential arrest and fines for owning these strips, aiming to reduce legal risks associated with harm reduction practices. By clarifying that these items are not illegal, the legislation seeks to align state statutes with public health efforts to prevent overdoses.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
Senate Passage
Feb 2023
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023 Last action Oct 10, 2023
Floor votes

How they voted

This bill passed the Senate. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
4
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 16, 2023
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on The Judiciary
lower
1 primary · 3 co-sponsors

Sponsors