Advocating for systemic changes

We’re mobilizing Arizonans to create tangible change for people who use drugs and our communities.

Recent legislative wins

Naloxone legalization, 2016

In May 2016, HB 2355 passed which allows Arizona pharmacists to dispense naloxone to anyone without a prescription. It is listed under Arizona Revised Stautes § 32-1979 (2016)

Good Samaritan Law, 2018

In 2018, we helped pass a Good Samaritan Law. If someone is experiencing a drug-related overdose or someone calls 911 in a drug-related overdose, both parties can no longer be charged for the possession or use of a controlled substance or paraphernalia. It is listed under Arizona Revised Statutes 13-3423.

Fentanyl test strip decriminalization, 2021

Currently in Arizona products used to test drugs are illegal under our paraphernalia laws. In 2021, SB 1486 passed which changed the definition of paraphernalia to create an exception for fentanyl test strips. This law is listed under Arizona Revised Statues 13-3415.

Syringe access decriminalization, 2021

In 2021, Arizona decriminalized syinge access programs. SB 1250 allows syringe access programs to operate and protects volunteers and participants from being charged with paraphernalia for possesing injection equipment. It is listed under Arizonaa Revised Statues 36-798.51 and 36-798.52

What’s next?

After the recent syringe access decriminalization, we’re taking a break in 2022. Keep in touch with us by volunteering or connecting with our friends working to make the world a better place for people who use drugs and our communitiess:

Join our team

When you work at SPW, you’ll join a team where your voice is important and your work matters.

Donate to our work

Your contributions help make our work possible.
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Join us for GivingTuesday on December 3rd! Early giving is now open.

Introducing the new SPW Virtual Classroom

Free, online, self-paced courses with certificates awarded on course completition.