NEEDLE PLAN CAN LIMIT HIV, CRIME

Regarding "City's needle exchange plan is a shot in the arm" [Opinion,
May 30]: Hats off to Mayor Michael Bloomberg for once again putting
the welfare of the city first. I certainly don't agree with all his
policies, but at least he does not pander to special-interest groups.

His independence is no more apparent than in the decisions he has made
concerning public health. Looking toward the future, responsible
health policies today will mean smaller public health costs tomorrow.
The needle exchange program is a victory for progressive
health-conscious residents and the city's population as a whole.

Christopher Franz

Manhattan