New Hampshire House Bill HB397

New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/23
• Refer: 1/9/23
• Report Pass: 2/15/23
• Refer: 2/22/23
• Report Pass: 3/15/23
• Report DNP: 3/15/23
• Engrossed: 3/24/23
• Refer: 3/24/23
• Refer: 5/10/23
• Refer: 5/18/23

Caption

Relative to the prohibition of the possession of hypodermic needles by minors.

Impact

The enactment of HB 397 will refine the regulatory framework governing the sale and possession of hypodermic syringes in New Hampshire. By enforcing stricter regulations, it seeks to reduce the potential for misuse among minors, thereby enhancing public safety and promoting responsible medical practices. The bill's provisions will also contribute to the control of substances often associated with drug-related issues, thereby indirectly addressing public health concerns related to substance abuse among youth.

Summary

House Bill 397 aims to clarify the rules surrounding the possession of hypodermic needles and syringes by individuals under the age of 18. The bill amends existing law to explicitly prohibit minors from possessing hypodermic syringes unless they have appropriate prescriptions. This legislation is a response to growing concerns about the misuse of such instruments among youth and is intended to ensure that they are utilized solely for legitimate medical purposes under medical supervision.

Contention

While the bill is primarily focused on protecting minors, concerns may emerge regarding the implications on access to necessary medical care. Critics of similar legislation often argue that overly restrictive measures could hinder legitimate medical use by youth, particularly those requiring treatment for chronic conditions. Thus, while proponents advocate for public health and safety, there may be ongoing discussions about finding a balance that does not infringe upon the medical needs of minors.