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Unlike most of its neighbors, Pennsylvania has not authorized syringe service programs statewide. The Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act still classifies syringes intended for illegal drug use as paraphernalia, and a bill adding a harm reduction exemption (House Bill 809) remains pending in the House Judiciary Committee with no vote scheduled. Philadelphia and Allegheny County (Pittsburgh) have issued local executive orders protecting syringe programs in their jurisdictions, but the rest of the state has no such cover. Fentanyl test strips are a separate matter: Act 111 of 2022 removed them from the paraphernalia definition, so they have been legal to possess since January 2023. Pennsylvania's Good Samaritan protection (Act 139) shields people who call 911 during an overdose from certain drug charges, and naloxone is available without an individual prescription under a statewide standing order from the Physician General.
The Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs runs the Pennsylvania Overdose Prevention Program (POPP), a "one-stop shop" that had filled more than 500 requests from community organizations for naloxone and test strips within its first year. On the ground, the PA Harm Reduction Network coordinates advocacy and support for grassroots programs, including The RASE Project and the Harrisburg Harm Reduction Project, that operate in the legal gray area the legislature has not yet resolved.
If you are outside Philadelphia or Allegheny County, check with a local program before assuming syringe services are protected there. Naloxone and fentanyl test strips are legal to carry statewide regardless.
Last reviewed September 2026 by Penny Beach, PRS.
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Find agencies that offer these critical services
Safe syringe exchange programs that reduce disease transmission and provide a connection to care.
No Cost or low-cost naloxone (Narcan) distribution to reverse opioid overdoses.
Confidential testing for HIV and Hepatitis C with connections to treatment.
Basic wound care services to prevent infections and complications.
Fentanyl test strips and drug checking services to reduce overdose risk.
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Harm reduction is a set of practical strategies and ideas aimed at reducing negative consequences associated with drug use. It is also a movement for social justice built on a belief in, and respect for, the rights of people who use drugs.
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