NEEDLE EXCHANGE PROGRAM

The Worcester, Massachusetts, City Council has rejected a needle exchange
and drug treatment program. The Telegram and Gazette newspaper reports the
council voted 7-4 against the proposal Tuesday night following a heated
debate inside and outside the council chambers.

Proponents say needle exchange programs are designed to reduce the spread
of HIV and hepatitis among intravenous drug users. Opponents argue that
needle exchanges present an unnecessary risk to the public... and send a
wrong message to young people. One opponent says there's no proof such
programs prevent AIDS...but there's plenty of evidence to show they
encourage drug use.

Do you agree? Why or why not? ---