Elimination of Ban on Federal Funding for Syringe Exchange

Every year, tens of thousands of Americans contract HIV as well as hepatitis C from the use of sharing syringes. For every used needle an injection drug user brings into a certain location, they are able to receive a clean needle in return. The Centers for Disease Control have created a syringe exchange program. This will help prevent HIV by providing clean syringes at a low price.

Since 1989, Congress has removed funding for syringe exchange programs, even though there is proof that these programs lower the contraction of HIV between drug users who inject.

The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor excluded the banning for federal funding of syringe exchange programs in the 2010 Fiscal Year appropriations bill. On Friday, July 17th, the entire Appropriations Committee will be voting on the bill. Some new laws may be introduced that could possibly reinstate the ban.

Please contact your Representatives on the Appropriations Committee and speak to them about your views on the bill, the importance to block any reinstatement, and request their support for syringe exchange programs.

Source