Pubdate: Wed, 27 Jan 1999
Source: United Press International
Copyright: 1999 United Press International

NEEDLE EXCHANGE PROGRAM

The Worcester, Massachusetts, City Council has rejected a needle exchange
and drug treatment program. The Telegram and Gazette newspaper reports the
council  voted 7-4 against the proposal Tuesday night following a heated
debate inside  and outside the council chambers.

Proponents say needle exchange programs are designed to reduce the spread
of  HIV and hepatitis among intravenous drug users. Opponents argue that
needle  exchanges present an unnecessary risk to the public... and send a
wrong message  to young people. One opponent says there's no proof such
programs prevent  AIDS...but there's plenty of evidence to show they
encourage drug use.

Do you agree? Why or why not? ---

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