N.J. Senate Set to Consider Sterile Syringe Program

A Senate panel is expected to vote Thursday on a measure that would expand and make permanent New Jersey’s sterile syringe program.

The Bloodborne Disease Harm Reduction Act of 2006 is a demonstration program, permitting six cities to operate the needle-exchange programs; Atlantic City, Camden, Jersey City, Newark, and Patterson currently do so. The new legislation would authorize any municipality to operate an NEP, and it would appropriate $95,000 to fund it.

The outreach has reduced HIV risks and boosted access to drug treatment and other services without increasing crime or drug use, a 2010 state report showed.

The Friends of AIDS Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for HIV positive individuals and empowering people to make healthy choices to prevent the spread of the HIV virus. To learn more about The Friends of AIDS Foundation, please visit: http://www.friendsofaids.org.