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The Florida Department of Health works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

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Infectious Disease Elimination Act (IDEA)

Contact: Florida Health

 

screenshot of IDEA Factsheet

IDEA fact sheet

 

syringe services programs technical guide

 

needle exchange resources
other needle exchange resources

  

needle exchange info-graphic
needle exchange info-graphic

  

needle exchange info-graphic
needle exchange talking points

  


IDEA

IDEA Opens the Door
for Syringe Exchange Programs in Florida Counties to Fight HIV

On June 27, 2019, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law the Infectious Disease Elimination Act (IDEA) that allows county commissions to authorize sterile needle and syringe exchange programs for people who inject drugs. Disease prevention must be the goal of every exchange program.

For the last 10 years, the steady increase of opioid misuse and addiction has added to the rising rate of injection drug use in the U.S. Sharing needles, syringes or other drug injection equipment puts people at risk for getting or transmitting infections. Studies show that exchange programs significantly reduce overdose-related deaths and prevent diseases like HIV and hepatitis B and C—they also reduce the risks of community outbreaks. There are currently more than 200 programs in 34 states. They have helped many people and communities.

Syringe exchange programs in Florida cannot use state, county or municipal funds to operate. The law requires that exchange programs be funded through grants and donations from private resources and funds.

The personal identifying information of people participating in a syringe exchange program can not be collected or used for any purpose.

Banner reading "Get Naloxone. Save a Life. isaveFL.com"Visit isaveFL.com to find a naloxone provider near you.


map of florida with some counties highlighted

IDEA Implementation in Florida

Learn which Florida counties have taken steps toward implementing syringe exchange programs through our implementation map.

If you are interested in starting a syringe exchange program in your county, read the steps to establish, create, maintain and report. Be sure to download the links to the law for more detailed information.

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Addiction Impacts Individuals, Families & Communities

Are you looking for substance use or mental health services for yourself or someone you know? The Department of Children and Families Get Help resource can help you find programs and providers in your area.