Pubdate: Thu, 17 Nov 2005
Source: Cape Cod Times (MA)
Copyright: 2005 Cape Cod Times
Contact:  http://www.capecodonline.com/cctimes/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/72
Author: Eric Williams
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/hr.htm (Harm Reduction)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?137 (Needle Exchange)

PROVINCETOWN HOSTS ONE OF FEW NEEDLE SWAPS

Operated by the AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod and funded by the 
Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Provincetown's needle 
exchange program (NEP) is one of only four in the state. The others 
operate in Boston, Cambridge and Northampton. But local advocates 
hope the state legislature will soon pass a bill authorizing 
pharmacy-based, nonprescription syringe access for adults in a push 
to fight blood-borne infections.

On Nov. 16, state senators delayed a vote on the bill until after the 
holidays to garner more support in the face of an anticipated 
executive veto. Sen. Robert O'Leary (D-Barnstable), the bill's 
sponsor, has to muster a two-thirds senate majority to override a 
likely veto by Gov. Mitt Romney. A similar measure has already 
received the overwhelming approval of the House.

There is no evidence nonprescription syringe access increases drug 
use, said O'Leary. "But there's no question that by regulating 
needles. we promote the spread of destructive diseases, particularly 
AIDS and hepatitis C."

"People most often don't seek treatment on their own," said Rep. 
Jeffrey Perry (R-Sandwich), who was the only Cape and islands 
representative to vote against the bill. "Most people are getting 
treatment because of family intervention, an accident or they were 
arrested. By taking this whole class of individuals out of being 
subjected to the court, these people will not get court-ordered 
treatment," he said. In Barnstable, a drug court diverts drug users 
"out of the criminal justice system into prevention programs and 
rehabilitation programs," Perry said.

Since 1997, more than 400 clients have registered anonymously with 
Provincetown's NEP. Referrals for therapy are available and encouraged.
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MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman