(Des Moines)– An effort over the last three legislative sessions to legalize syringe exchange programs in Iowa, or to create a pilot program, looks like it is unlikely to pass.
Supporters of exchanges say they provide clean injection supplies to people who use drugs to prevent the spread of diseases and connect them with treatment and other services.
Republican Senator Zach Whiting of Spirit Lake says he was opposed at first, until he learned more about the potential for reducing diseases and associated costs.
A new look at data from the University of Iowa hospital shows the state is paying millions to care for people with serious medical conditions from dirty needles.
The Iowa Police Chief Association is the only group that’s openly lobbying against the bill. Republican leadership has previously declined to bring the bill to the floor for a vote.
