S56B

The New York State Senate passed legislation codifying the Drug Checking Services Program, a public health initiative that has tested nearly 2,500 drug samples at 13 sites since its launch in October 2023. Senate Print 56B, sponsored by Sen. Fernandez, amends the Public Health Law to provide legal protections for program operators and users while empowering the Department of Health to monitor trends in the unregulated drug supply. The bill passed on a 42-19 vote. Fernandez argued the program uses advanced testing machines to detect multiple adulterants including fentanyl, xylazine, and other substances—capabilities that exceed simple test strips. She credited the program with contributing to a steady decrease in overdoses statewide and emphasized its importance to vulnerable communities disproportionately affected by the overdose epidemic. The legislation ensures the program remains protected amid what Fernandez characterized as federal attacks on behavioral health services. Nineteen senators voted against the measure.