H 39 Vermont House · 2025-2026 Regular Session

An act relating to repeal of authorization of overdose prevention centers

This bill (H.39) would repeal Vermont's legal protections for overdose prevention centers (OPCs), removing immunity from drug possession charges and civil liability for users, staff, and operators. Currently, OPCs - safe spaces offering harm reduction services like naloxone and sterile supplies - are shielded from prosecution under state law. The repeal would mean participants and providers could face drug possession charges for activities within these centers, and centers could lose legal protection against civil claims. The bill targets the specific immunity provisions (Section 4256(c)), not the centers themselves, and would take effect July 1, 2025.
Bill status introduced 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 16, 2025 Last action Jan 16, 2025