2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26104743D

HOUSE BILL NO. 794

Offered January 14, 2026

Prefiled January 13, 2026

A BILL to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 32.1-45.5, relating to Department of Health; reduction of opioid overdose and opioid overdose deaths; report.

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Patron—Reaser

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Referred to Committee on Health and Human Services

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Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. That the Code of Virginia is amended by adding a section numbered 32.1-45.5 as follows:

§ 32.1-45.5. Department to be lead agency to reduce rates of opioid overdose and opioid overdose deaths.

A. The Department shall serve as the lead agency for coordination of activities to reduce rates of opioid overdose and opioid overdose deaths in the Commonwealth. In carrying out its duties, the Department shall (i) develop a strategic plan to reduce rates of opioid overdose and opioid overdose deaths in the Commonwealth, (ii) coordinate efforts across state agencies to reduce rates of opioid overdose and opioid overdose deaths in the Commonwealth, and (iii) monitor the implementation and outcome of efforts to reduce rates of opioid overdose and opioid overdose deaths in the Commonwealth. The Department shall revise the plan developed pursuant to this subsection every five years to reflect changing priorities for the reduction of rates of opioid overdose and opioid overdose deaths in the Commonwealth.

B. The Department shall work with the Secretaries of Health and Human Resources, Education, and Public Safety and Homeland Security and such other stakeholders and state agencies as may be appropriate.

C. The Department shall report annually to the General Assembly by December 1 regarding the implementation of the plan and outcome of efforts to reduce rates of opioid overdose and opioid overdose deaths in the Commonwealth.