Progressive Policy in Michigan

Life Saving Policy Reform in Michigan

Syringe Service Programs

Syringe Service Programs have been operating in Michigan and several other states throughout the nation for decades. The services provided by these programs assist in reducing fatal overdose through the distribution of overdose prevention materials and provision of safer use education, help increase access to treatment services for people who use drugs, reduce litter created by drug equipment through safe disposal measures, and help to reduce the spread of communicable blood borne pathogens like HIV and Hepatitis within the communities in which they operate. Data supports that individuals who participate in these programs are more likely to seek out treatment and less likely to contract blood borne illnesses as a result of their drug use. Though SSP’s have substantial positive effects on the communities in which they operate current paraphernalia policies dictate that many of their operations are still outside of the bounds of legal operation and participants as well as staff and volunteers must often risk criminalization when providing or accessing services. State Wide policy reform to decriminalize possession and distribution of what is currently deemed paraphernalia in many municipalities will not only continue to legitimize operations of SSPs within the state but will also vastly increase accessibility to these programs and work to mitigate fatal overdose.

House Bills 5178 and 5179

There are currently 2 Bills addressing paraphernalia reform awaiting a hearing in the Michigan Legislative Committee. These Bills are an effort to unify policy across municipalities in the state. Currently criminalization of paraphernalia varies based on municipal policy, HB 5178 and 5179 aim to affirm legal operation of SSPs statewide. Below is a link to the proposed language in both Bills as well as a links to committee members and sponsors with contact email information. Please support this life saving legislation in our state!