Harm Reduction Center Sunset Clause Elimination (H 5171)

Although it may appear counterintuitive, one of the most effective ways to address substance use disorder is through the establishment of clinics in which an individual can self-administer previously obtained controlled substances while under medical supervision. The success rate of these harm reduction clinics, which provide a safe place for individuals and access to rehabilitative and medical services, is extremely high; worldwide, these harm reduction clinics have prevented thousands of overdose deaths. We testified in favor of legislation which would eliminate the sunset clause for the creation and maintenance of harm reduction centers in Rhode Island.