(a) The Department of Public Health shall establish, within available appropriations, syringe services programs to enhance health outcomes of people who inject drugs in any community impacted by the human immunodeficiency virus or hepatitis C. The department shall establish protocols in accordance with the provisions of subsection (b) of this section. The department may authorize programs, as determined by the commissioner, through local health departments or other local organizations.

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(b) The programs shall: (1) Be incorporated into existing human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis C outreach and prevention programs in the selected communities; (2) provide access to free and confidential exchanges of syringes; (3) provide for safe disposal or exchange of syringes; (4) provide that first-time applicants to the program receive an initial packet of syringes, educational material and a list of drug counseling services; (5) offer education on the human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis C, reduction in harm caused by such viruses, and drug overdose prevention measures and assist program participants in obtaining drug treatment services; (6) provide referrals for substance abuse counseling or treatment; and (7) provide referrals for medical or mental health care.

(c) The department shall require programs to include an annual evaluation component to monitor (1) the number of syringes distributed and collected, (2) program participation rates, (3) the number of participants who are referred to treatment, and (4) the incidence of human immunodeficiency virus from injection drug use to determine if there is a reduction in the result of the syringe services program.

(d) The local health department or community-based organization of each community conducting a syringe services program shall submit a report evaluating the effectiveness of the program to the Department of Public Health.