In 1988 the National Academy of Sciences wrote, “The gross inadequacy of…efforts to reduce HIV transmission among IV drug users, when considered in relation to the scope and implications of such transmissions is now the most serious deficiency in current efforts to control HIV infection in the United States.”

Although 30-odd states have established 100’s of needle exchange programs since then, the efforts made thus far have been less than adequate. The vast majority of states still criminalize the possession of syringes without a prescription, leading those who inject drugs to fear arrest and share syringes they find on each other and the street. The spread of disease has been breathtaking.

Every medical, legal, and scientific body to study the issue has agreed that drug users need a constant and easily accessible way to obtain syringes to reduce the spread of disease without increasing drug use. Over a decade of exchanges have shown exactly how well this can work, however they are often only allowed and funded to operate on a limited basis. Some states still refuse to even allow needle exchange programs, despite the fact that they almost always become the number one referral method for drug treatment in their communities, reduce the number of syringes found on the streets, frequently reduce crime, and help addicts connect with prevention and other health services.