In 2000, the New York State Legislature changed the Public Health Law to authorize a demonstration program to expand access to sterile hypodermic needles and syringes. This is a public health measure to prevent blood borne diseases, most notably HIV/AIDS and hepatitis B and hepatitis C. The Expanded Syringe Access Program became effective January 1, 2001 and as of the summer of 2009, became a permanent program.

Retail Access Highlights:

• Pharmacies may advertise syringe/needle availability without a prescription.
• Syringes must not be openly displayed to customers.
• Individuals 18 years or older may obtain syringes without a prescription.
• No quantity limits on sales or furnishing.
• Each transaction must include a safety insert.
• Pharmacies no longer need to register with the Department of Health to participate.

• Proper syringe/needle usage.
• Risks of blood-borne diseases.
• Disease prevention methods.
• Safe disposal practices and environmental law info.
• Dangers of injection drug use and treatment access.
• Toll-free HIV information number.
• Statement affirming legal possession under Article 33.

Prescription Rules:

• Accepted formats: oral, written, electronic.
• Transfers between pharmacies are allowed.
• No quantity limits or refill restrictions.
• Valid for 2 years from original date.
• If syringe contains a controlled substance, applicable schedule rules apply.

• Healthcare professionals: physicians, dentists, nurses, podiatrists, pharmacists, respiratory therapists/techs.
• Institutions: hospitals, sanitariums, clinical labs, medical institutions.
• Others: veterinarians, undertakers, wildlife rehabilitators, agricultural workers, advanced life support agencies, certified home health and hospice programs.
• Commercial: manufacturers/dealers in medical supplies and their agents.
• Special agents: incorporated animal cruelty prevention societies, resident physicians/interns.