Just Say NO to Needle Exchanges
In response to the Ledger's editorial (End Holdout On Needle Exchanges 7/26/06), I challenge the writer to provide actual proof of their allegation that those who oppose needle exchanges (NEPs) are using "out-dated" arguments. Rather than encourage addicts to get help and keeping laws in place that punish drug use, NEPS encourage addicts to continue shooting up with free needles, and place a greater burden on law enforcement to try and deal with the fallout. Here's a very "up-to-date" example of where harm reduction programs, (rather than rehabilitation and prevention) lead: On July 19th, police in Vancouver Canada made it their official policy not to arrest people for using drugs, but to focus instead on those who sell and make them. So now, instead of arresting users illegally shooting up outside the NEP area, they have abandoned the overwhelming enforcement (except for school grounds and in front of businesses), and are focusing solely on the dealers. The new policy also highlights how "drug prevention" efforts are being overlooked. Is this where New Jersey wants to go? Drug treatment and prevention efforts are by far the best solutions for both the addict and society.

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