Federal Law & New Legislation
Syringe access programs are generally governed by state law. Until 2009, federal law banned spending federal funds to support syringe access. This ban inhibited medical providers from operating syringe access programs in order to address the dual problems of infectious disease and addiction.
In 2009 Congress voted to remove the ban on funding syringe access, allowing states, local governments and non-profits to offer cost effective disease prevention that is in the best interest of their communities.
In 2011 the US Surgeon General issued a statement affirming the public health value of syringe services programs (SSPs).
February 23, 2011
Federal Register
Determination that a demonstration needle exchange
program would be effective in reducing drug abuse and
the risk of acquired immune deficiency syndrome infection among intravenous drug users
December 18, 2009
NPR
Ban lifted on federal funding for needle exchange
Community AIDS and Hepatitis Prevention Act
Filed January 6, 2009
To permit the use of Federal funds for syringe exchange programs for purposes of reducing the transmission of bloodborne pathogens, including HIV and viral hepatitis.
June 29, 2007
Washington Post
