Overdose deaths from opioids have reached levels unseen since 2015 due to an increased flow of fentanyl into New Hampshire. It is more important than ever for New Hampshire to adopt evidence-based harm reduction strategies to save lives.
HB 226 would make it easier for Granite Staters to access life-saving drug testing kits to prevent overdoses.
About the Bill
Under current law, with the exceptions of fentanyl and xylazine test strips, possession with intent to distribute lifesaving drug-checking equipment is an unclassified misdemeanor and punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of $2,000.
HB 226 would make the use and distribution of test equipment legal in New Hampshire.
Take Action
The House Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee is holding a public hearing on HB 226 on Thursday, January 23 at 2:30 pm in the Legislative Office Building (Room 202-204).
Sign in to Support (by midnight on 1/23)
Virtually sign in on the public hearing to show your opposition to HB 226:
- Go to the House Sign In Form on the Gencourt website.
- Fill in your personal information.
- Select the date: January 23
- Select the committee: House Criminal Justice and Public Safety
- Choose the bill number: HB 226
- Select "I am: A member of the public" unless one of the other labels is appropriate to you.
- Fill in "I'm Representing: Myself" unless you are approved to represent another entity (i.e. your workplace or an organization).
- Select "I SUPPORT this bill."
- Upload or write your written testimony (this step is optional; please note your testimony becomes immediately visible on the website to anyone).
- Click "Submit."
Testify in Person: Let Us Know You're Interested!
Show your support of HB 226 by attending and testifying at the public hearing on Thursday, January 23 at 2:30 pm at the Legislative Office Building in Room 202. New Futures can help you prepare remarks, find the committee room, and offer moral support at the hearing.
