Together, we can save lives.

Legislation Overview

Draft SSP Bill

The background

In Michigan, syringe service program staff, participants, and generally well-intentioned people can face criminal charges for activities that protect public health, such as attempting to safely discard used needles. Many Michigan communities criminalize activities related to drug paraphernalia, even though syringes and other equipment provided by health programs are not classified as drug paraphernalia under state law. This means that public health workers can face legal consequences even when they’re saving lives.

The solution

In order to address this issue, we must explicitly authorize the establishment and operation of SSPs in state law, clarify that equipment provided by SSPs is not considered drug paraphernalia under state or local law, and protect individuals obtaining or returning syringes from arrest, prosecution, charges, or conviction.

The impact

By implementing the solutions we are proposing for our state, we can make an impact.

More SSPs to provide life-saving resources

Fewer cases of HIV and hepatitis C

More connections to comprehensive care, supports, and services, including substance use treatment

No fiscal impact on state budget—will result in other cost savings

Expanding Access to Naloxone

Public Act 176 of 2022

The background

Between 2016 and 2022, Michigan pharmacies dispensed naloxone under a single, statewide prescription by the chief medical executive of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

Community-based organizations, however, were not allowed to purchase or distribute the medication until July 2022 when Public Act 176 of 2022 took effect. The new law expands access to naloxone for individuals experiencing an opioid overdose and permits community-based organizations to purchase and distribute naloxone under a standing order. The law also protects community-based organizations from liability in any civil action that may arise out of distributing, administering, or failing to administer the opioid antagonist.

The solution

The Michigan Overdose Prevention Coalition is working to encourage community-based organizations to take on the opioid crisis by purchasing and distributing naloxone throughout the state.

The impact

Expanded access to naloxone, especially at a grassroots level

Fewer preventable deaths and more lives saved

No fiscal Impact on state budget

Find Your Legislators

Use the links below to look up your state senator and state representative:

Find Your Representative – Michigan House of Representatives

Find Your Senator – Michigan Senate

Get Involved

Join our mailing list to receive updates and resources to advocate for wider naloxone distribution and safe syringe service programs in Michigan.

Advocacy Toolkit

Community leaders around the state are advocating for policy reforms to increase access to evidence-based harm reduction strategies. Here are some resources you can use to help advocate for safe SSPs and continued support of wider naloxone distribution in Michigan.

Harm Reduction Educational Flipbook PDF