Vote YES on HB23-1202
Overdose Prevention Center Authorization

WHAT DOES THE BILL DO?
HB23-1202 empowers municipalities to approve overdose prevention centers (OPC), which are safe, supervised spaces for people to use previously obtained drugs. OPCs offer wrap-around services for people suffering from substance abuse disorders. At these centers, people can test drugs for fentanyl, get counseling, connect to treatment, receive harm reduction services, and stay alive.

WHY YOU SHOULD VOTE YES
The bill prioritizes local control, recognizes home rule authority, and provides local governments with a tool to combat the opioid crisis. Public health crises require innovative and local solutions. And local governments are in the best position to assist their communities and decide whether OPCs are suitable for their communities.

OPCs improve public health by minimizing preventable overdose deaths in our communities. They also help to reduce the transmission of infectious diseases and save money on disease prevention and emergency medical care.

OPCs can curb public drug use and help ensure our neighborhoods, parks, libraries, public transit, and businesses remain safe places to live, work, and play.

CML REQUESTS YOUR SUPPORT
HB23-1202 is a clear example of the state deferring to local communities to address their needs, and it truly empowers our cities to use their own discretion to prevent overdose deaths.

CONTACT
Meghan Mackillop | CML legislative & policy advocate