PROVINCETOWN HOSTS ONE OF FEW NEEDLE SWAPS

Operated by the AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod and funded by the
Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Provincetown's needle
exchange program (NEP) is one of only four in the state. The others
operate in Boston, Cambridge and Northampton. But local advocates
hope the state legislature will soon pass a bill authorizing
pharmacy-based, nonprescription syringe access for adults in a push
to fight blood-borne infections.

On Nov. 16, state senators delayed a vote on the bill until after the
holidays to garner more support in the face of an anticipated
executive veto. Sen. Robert O'Leary (D-Barnstable), the bill's
sponsor, has to muster a two-thirds senate majority to override a
likely veto by Gov. Mitt Romney. A similar measure has already
received the overwhelming approval of the House.

There is no evidence nonprescription syringe access increases drug
use, said O'Leary. "But there's no question that by regulating
needles. we promote the spread of destructive diseases, particularly
AIDS and hepatitis C."

"People most often don't seek treatment on their own," said Rep.
Jeffrey Perry (R-Sandwich), who was the only Cape and islands
representative to vote against the bill. "Most people are getting
treatment because of family intervention, an accident or they were
arrested. By taking this whole class of individuals out of being
subjected to the court, these people will not get court-ordered
treatment," he said. In Barnstable, a drug court diverts drug users
"out of the criminal justice system into prevention programs and
rehabilitation programs," Perry said.

Since 1997, more than 400 clients have registered anonymously with
Provincetown's NEP. Referrals for therapy are available and encouraged.