Needle-Exchange Law Helps to Combat AIDS

Human Rights Watch is coming to the aid of Atlantic City’s new needle exchange program. New Jersey state officials are trying to shut the program down. In such programs drug addicts are allowed to swap dirty needles for clean ones. These programs help to prevent the spread of HIV / AIDS. Portland’s Outside In, where I served on the staff and board, opened one of the first needle exchange programs in the United States. Because of it Portland has lower than average HIV rates among drug users. Outside In also provides addicts with information on where they can receive drug treatment. Needle exchange saves lives.