Public Health - Overdose and Infectious Disease Prevention Services Program

SB 83 authorizes community-based organizations (like clinics, health centers, or local health departments) to establish supervised overdose and infectious disease prevention programs in Maryland, subject to approval by the Maryland Department of Health. These programs must operate in high-drug-use areas (with a maximum of six total, distributed across urban, suburban, and rural zones) and provide services including sterile supplies, overdose response (including naloxone), HIV/hepatitis testing, referrals to treatment, and harm reduction education. Programs may bill insurance for covered services and use mobile facilities, but cannot be located in residential zones. The bill directly affects program operators, people who use drugs, and health insurers, focusing on reducing overdose and disease transmission through accessible, non-punitive services.