INTRODUCTION

Syringe Access Programs sometimes referred to as Syringe Service Programs, and called Harm Reduction Centers in New Jersey are an essential public health service that provide free sterile syringes and other safer use supplies, naloxone (the medicine that reverses an overdose), and connections to care for people who use drugs.

In January 2022, New Jersey policymakers removed the restrictive municipal ordinance requirement for syringe access programs and decriminalized syringe and fentanyl test strip possession, citing the public health benefits of syringe access and the need for new Harm Reduction Centers (HRCs) to open throughout the Garden State. The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) has regulatory oversight of any existing and new services

In June 2023, NJDOH released new regulations that modernize our state’s syringe policies, align them with public health best practices, and create an authorization application for new Harm Reduction Centers in the state While the regulations and application will be in a 60-day comment period starting on July 17, they are in effect now. That means that applications to start an authorized syringe access program are welcomed and encouraged

That’s where you come in if you’re thinking about submitting an application to start an authorized Harm Reduction Center, this checklist is for YOU!

This checklist is a guide of elements to consider when reviewing the application for authorization and designing your syringe access program

This is YOUR tool! We recognize, celebrate, and will rely on a wide range of organizations that offer harm reduction services from health care providers to mutual aid, grassroots organizations. Thus, some considerations will be more or less applicable to some groups. You can skim or deep dive into the elements that are most helpful for you, and revisit this checklist throughout your application and planning process.