CANDIDATES' VIEWS ON THE NEEDLE BILL

Here's where the candidates for governor stand on the bill passed by
the Senate to permit the over-the-counter sale of needles to stem the
spread of disease.

Christopher F. Gabrieli (Democrat): "I support the Senate's efforts
to prevent the spread of diseases like HIV and hepatitis C. This step
has proven effective in many other states."

Deval L. Patrick (Democrat): "Deval Patrick supports this legislation
because he believes it will reduce dangerous diseases in our state.
Studies in other states have shown that programs such as these
decrease the rates of disease infection without increasing drug use."

Thomas F. Reilly (Democrat): "This is a public health issue. This
bill will put Massachusetts in line with 47 other states in working
to save lives by stopping the spread of AIDS, hepatitis and other
infectious diseases while cutting down on health care costs for all,"
said spokesman Corey Welford.

Kerry Healey (Republican): "Today's disappointing vote to legalize
the over-the-counter sale of hypodermic needles jeopardizes the
safety of our families and makes it easier for drug users to engage
in illegal behavior. We are calling on all the gubernatorial
candidates to stand with us in opposition to this threat to public safety."

Christy Mihos (independent): "I am in favor of the bill. Studies have
shown that decriminalization does not increase drug use or the
problem of discarded syringes. The public health will be improved by
this legislation."

Grace Ross (Green-Rainbow): "This is essentially a public health
decision, and it has somehow become political football in certain
circles. . . . All of the evidence is very clear that people being
able to get clean needles can help stop the transmission of AIDS and
other diseases. I would consider this a health decision and therefore
be guided by the medical wisdom of the times."