Making syringe exchange service programs unlawful

HB 4413 bans syringe exchange programs in West Virginia by making them unlawful under new law, requiring all existing programs to cease operations by the effective date. It allows harm reduction services (like overdose prevention education, naloxone distribution, and referrals to treatment) to continue without needle exchanges during a 120-day transition period for patient care. Operators who continue syringe exchanges after the effective date face daily civil penalties of up to $2,500, and the state health office can seek court orders to enforce the ban. The bill specifically prohibits offering sterile needles without a prescription, while permitting other health services that don’t involve syringe exchanges.