Syringe services programs (SSPs) are evidence-based public health interventions that can reduce risk behaviors associated with injection drug use by providing access to sterile syringes, ultimately reducing disease transmission of HIV and hepatitis C and preventing outbreaks. SSPs typically provide services such as testing for blood-borne infections, referrals to counseling and/or substance use disorder treatment, and naloxone distribution, which can further mitigate harm from injection drug use. Decades of research and experience demonstrate SSPs are safe, efficacious, and cost-effective, boost substance use treatment initiation, and do not increase drug use or criminal activity.  

While some states have laws that explicitly authorize SSPs, there is variation in those laws regarding the requirements for establishing and operating SSPs. State laws regulating the possession and distribution of drug paraphernalia laws also vary and may affect the use of sterile syringes.  

This longitudinal dataset captures key elements of state-level statutes and regulations regulating SSPs and drug paraphernalia from January 1, 2010, through June 1, 2024, in all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia. The dataset includes the method of authorization for SSPs, requirements for the establishment of SSPs, the types of services provided directly and by referral, drug paraphernalia possession laws, and drug paraphernalia distribution laws. This dataset does not include local laws that govern SSPs or drug paraphernalia, which could differ from state laws. The Research Protocol includes details about the scope of the dataset, the research and coding methodology, and the quality control process. 

This dataset was created with support from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $750,000 with 100 percent funded by CDC/HHS. The contents do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CDC/HHS, or the U.S. government. 

Please note: the information contained herein does not constitute legal advice. If you have questions regarding your legal rights or obligations, contact an attorney in your jurisdiction.