GARDNER SUPPORTS AIDS NEEDLE EXCHANGE PROGRAMS

Olympia, Wash.--Washington Gov. Booth Gardner told the state Senate
Thursday it should allow needle exchange programs in Seattle and Tacoma
time to operate "to see if it makes a difference." A provision in an
omnibus anti-drug bill passed by the Senate Wednesday night would ban
hypodermic needle exchanges for drug users. "You can't take people off
drugs overnight," he said. "We know we have health problems with regard to
the issue of AIDS and this is a program that has gained some currency and
is being tested." The governor said negotiations continue on the final form
of the drug bill.