Texas Facts
Our negligence is costing Texas taxpayers.
In the face of a silent hepatitis C epidemic and the continued spread of HIV in Texas, we have done too little and paid too high a price. Without direct and effective prevention, infections will continue to rise, and the costs associated with long term maintenance will escalate exponentially. By addressing high risk populations, syringe exchange programs will prevent infections and cost the state nothing.
Without Syringe exchange, we all lose.
Currently, because they can’t access clean syringes, Texas injection drug users spread blood borne disease by reusing and sharing their syringes. Shame and fear prevent addicts from accessing social services.
Many are alone on the streets without recovery support or disease prevention. As a result, Texas spends millions of taxpayer dollars every year treating blood borne disease infections that could have been prevented with the use of sterile syringes, a connection to services, and proper education.
Syringe exchange is life preservation, not drug support.
Of the many studies conducted on the more than 180 programs operating throughout the United States, all have concluded that syringe exchange programs do not increase or encourage drug use. They do not distribute drugs or money, nor do they encourage drug seeking behavior. Syringe exchange programs distribute the resources necessary to preserve life and provide vital support to addicts seeking to make healthier life choices.
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Links to more information:
Legislative History of Syringe Exchange Bills in Texas
Bexar County Harm Reduction Program
Attorney General Opinion on the Bexar County Pilot Program
