State Authorization of Northern Valley Harm Reduction Coalition Syringe Service Program

The California Department of Public Health has authorized the Northern Valley Harm Reduction Coalition to operate a syringe service program under Health and Safety Code 121349. The primary objective of this initiative is to address critical public health needs by reducing the transmission of HIV, viral hepatitis, and other deadly bloodborne infections. These services will be delivered through a fixed location at 171 E. 18th Street in Chico, California, as well as via residential deliveries within Chico upon the request of program participants. The program is classified under NAICS code 621420 and is managed by the Office of AIDS, with Marisa Ramos serving as the primary point of contact. Notably, the project has been granted an exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Health and Safety Code 121349(h)(1), which exempts needle and syringe exchange service applications, authorizations, and operations from environmental review. The authorization was formally signed by the Office of AIDS Division Chief on September 23, 2025.