Introductory Act to the Federal Act on Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances - Department of Health and Social Affairs

1. The execution of the Narcotics Act is the responsibility of the Department of Health and Social Affairs, unless this Act provides otherwise.

2. The Department of Health and Social Affairs is specifically responsible for the granting and revocation of permits and for the supervision of the trafficking of narcotics.

1. The Cantonal Doctor is responsible for

a) Receiving reports on cases of drug addiction,

b) Ordering measures against addicts and those at risk,

c) Granting authorization for the prescription, dispensing, and administration of narcotics for the treatment of drug addicts.

1. Applications for the issuance of permits must be submitted in writing to the Department of Health and Social Affairs.

2. Medical professionals and individuals considered equivalent do not require a special permit for the procurement, storage, use, and dispensing of narcotics. They are required to maintain a continuous inventory control for each type of narcotic.

3. The Department of Health and Social Affairs may issue guidelines concerning the application of narcotics by cantonally approved dentists.

1. Outpatient drug counseling includes professional counseling, support, and aftercare for individuals at risk of drug abuse and those who are drug-dependent, as well as referral to therapy programs.

2. Drug counseling also includes advising parents and private caregivers, as well as participation in preventive drug control efforts.

3. Individuals are considered to be at risk of drug abuse or drug-dependent if they consume narcotics or substances and preparations equivalent under federal law, or if they are addicted to such substances.

1. The canton operates one or more drug counseling centers.

2. The cantonal counseling centers are responsible for advising individuals at risk of drug addiction and drug-dependent individuals residing in the canton. They coordinate preventive education and public awareness efforts.

3. The government council may enter into agreements with other cantons regarding the counseling and care of individuals at risk of drug addiction and drug-dependent individuals.

1. The counseling centers are managed by specially trained personnel. They are subject to the supervision of the Department of Health and Social Affairs.

2. The Department of Health and Social Affairs issues the necessary organizational regulations. It can establish operational commissions and regulate their duties.

1. The government council may recognize public or private welfare institutions and drug counseling centers, provided they meet the following conditions

a) Assurance of expert counseling by trained personnel,

b) Cooperation with the cantonal counseling centers and the outpatient psychiatric service of the Cantonal Psychiatric Clinic.

1. Recognized drug counseling centers fall under the supervision of the Department of Health and Social Affairs in this function. They report to it annually.

1. The Canton shall provide contributions to recognized counseling centers amounting to up to 50 percent of the costs attributable to the counseling of Canton residents.

1. The Cantonal Council is authorized to adapt this law to amended federal law.

1. This law shall enter into force on January 1, 1990, following its approval by the Federal Council.

2. Upon its entry into force, the following are repealed

1. The Ordinance of February 16, 1954, relating to the Federal Act of October 3, 1951, on Narcotic Drugs,

2. The Ordinance of October 29, 1984, regarding the Outpatient Counseling of Drug-endangered and Drug-dependent Individuals.