LAWMAKERS PONDER NEEDLE EXCHANGE BILL

SACRAMENTO, March 1 (UPI) - Local governments would be authorized to
implement clean needle and syringe exchange programs throughout California
under a bill before the state Assembly. Assemblywoman Kerry Mazzoni, D-San
Rafael, says it would allow county supervisors, city councils, local health
officers or mayors to set up a needle exchange project to fight the spread
of HIV and hepatitis through dirty needles. The bill is sponsored by the
city of Los Angeles.