New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A01647

Introduced

1/10/25

Refer

1/10/25

Refer

1/7/26

Caption

Decriminalizes the possession of buprenorphine from certain crimes.

Impact

If enacted, A01647 would have a significant impact on state laws pertaining to the management of substance use disorders. By allowing controlled substances such as buprenorphine to be dispensed in a manner that decriminalizes possession for those who are dependent on it, the bill aims to reduce stigma associated with addiction and improve healthcare access. This change could streamline treatment protocols and encourage more individuals to seek help without fear of legal repercussions.

Summary

Bill A01647 aims to amend the public health law regarding the dispensing of controlled substances, specifically buprenorphine, which is often used in the treatment of substance use disorders. The legislation intends to decriminalize the possession of buprenorphine in specific contexts and allows healthcare practitioners, including registered nurses and emergency medical technicians, to administer this medication to individuals experiencing withdrawal symptoms. The overall objective is to address public health concerns while ensuring that individuals with substance use disorders receive necessary medical support.

Contention

However, the bill may face notable points of contention among legislators and community stakeholders. Critics could argue that, while decriminalization may benefit individuals suffering from addiction, there is a risk that it could also lead to increased misuse of buprenorphine. Additionally, concerns may arise regarding the standards under which practitioners dispense controlled substances and the potential for exacerbating public health challenges related to substance misuse. Ongoing discussions around the implementation and regulatory measures included in the bill may be key to its acceptance.

Companion Bills

NY S02331

Same As Decriminalizes the possession of buprenorphine from certain crimes.

NY S03883

Same As Relates to dispensing certain controlled substances for use by a person with a substance use disorder during certain emergency medical treatment, or to relieve acute withdrawal symptoms.

Previously Filed As

NY S02331

Decriminalizes the possession of buprenorphine from certain crimes.

NY A1250

Decriminalizes manufacture and certain possession of slingshots.

NY S08460

Adds possessing a flare gun with intent to use it unlawfully against another to the crime of criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree.

NY HB07065

An Act Concerning The Decriminalization Of Possession Of Small Amounts Of Psilocybin.

NY A09287

Enacts into law components of legislation relating to the possession and sale of nitrous oxide; criminalizes certain sales and possessions of nitrous oxide; (Part A); regulates the sale of nitrous oxide; (Part B); establishes an education and outreach program relating to nitrous oxide (Part C); criminalizes driving while ability impaired by nitrous oxide (Part D).

NY A1617

"CJ's Law"; Criminalizes manufacture, sale, and possession of substances containing kratom.

NY S829

"CJ's Law"; Criminalizes manufacture, sale, and possession of substances containing kratom.

NY HB06380

An Act Decriminalizing The Possession Of Psilocybin.

NY SB154

Criminalizes the possession or distribution of kratom. (8/1/25)

NY A11190

Adds to the crime of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree the possession, within any facility owned or operated by the state or upon school grounds, of any controlled substance or hazardous substance which has the potential to cause significant injury or death, with the intent to sell or distribute such substance.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.