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Last updated on Thursday, April 30, 2015
(STATEHOUSE) - A bill authorizing needle-exchange programs statewide is on its way to Governor Pence.
The House voted 80-19 and the Senate 38-11 to allow needle exchange programs in any county if state and local health departments and the county commissioners agree HIV or hepatitis infection rates have reached emergency levels.
Governor Pence used emergency powers to authorize a temporary needle-exchange program in Scott County as the county struggles to contain an HIV outbreak. 142 people have been diagnosed so far.
New Albany Representative Ed Clere says he doesn't know how many counties will meet the definition of an emergency, nor how many will elect to seek needle-exchange programs. But he says it's a potentially lifesaving step to make the programs available without delay, and says it will open a broader public-health discussion.
The bill also calls for stepped-up drug testing, treatment and enforcement.
Pence quickly confirmed he'll sign the bill, saying in a statement that it creates a "limited and accountable" exchange program which will save lives.
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