San Diego County supervisors overturn ban on needle exchange program

SAN DIEGO (CNS) - The county Board of Supervisors today voted 3-2 in favor of developing a needle exchange program, nullifying a 1997 board

decision.

Reversing the county's 23-year-old ban, the program will create a new strategy focusing on harm reduction to prevent overdoses and the spread of

infectious diseases, officials said.

Supervisors directed the chief administrative officer to present a comprehensive plan, known as the County Substance Use Harm Reduction Strategy,

within 90 days.

Advocates say needle exchange programs reduce both HIV and Hepatitis C transmission.

Board Chairman Nathan...