Making syringe exchange services programs unlawful

Senate Bill 36 makes syringe exchange programs illegal in West Virginia, prohibiting any program where individuals can access sterile needles without a prescription. It requires all existing syringe exchange programs to cease operations by the bill's effective date, with a 120-day transition period allowed only for referrals to treatment - no syringes may be exchanged during this time. Harm reduction services like overdose prevention education, wound care, and opioid antagonist distribution remain permitted, provided they do not include syringe exchanges. Violators face civil penalties of up to $2,500 per day, and the state health office can seek court orders to enforce the law.