Forty-eight states allow sales of the syringes without a prescription; New Jersey and Delaware are the exceptions
The state Assembly has advanced a bill to allow the sale of small quantities of hypodermic needles over the counter in order to decrease the spread of bloodborne diseases such as HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C.TRENTON — Nearly two decades after it was first introduced in New Jersey, lawmakers today gave final approval to a bill that would allow intravenous drug users to buy needles without prescriptions in an effort to stem the spread of diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis C.
Under the bill (A1088), which passed the Assembly 54-24, pharmacies could to sell up to 10 hypodermic needles to adults over the counter. Supporters say intravenous drug users should have easy access to clean needles because sharing used ones increases their chances of getting blood-borne diseases.
The measure now advances to Gov. Chris Christie, who has not said whether or not he supports it.
"This is a historic moment," said Roseanne Scotti, state director for the Drug Policy Alliance. "This legislation has overwhelming support from the medical and public health community. Governor Christie now has the opportunity to sign this legislation that will help end AIDS and save lives."
As U.S. Attorney, Christie opposed needle exchange programs. But after visiting Transition Park, a tent city for the homeless in Camden, during his 2009 campaign for governor, he indicated he might change his mind.
"The bill will get careful review and consideration," said Christie’s spokesman, Michael Drewniak.
If the governor signs it, New Jersey will become the 49th state to allow the sale of syringes without a prescription. Delaware is the only other state that does not, according to Scotti, who said it was first introduced in the Legislature in 1992.
Assemblyman Gordon Johnson (D-Bergen), a sponsor, said the bill is not meant to put more needles on the street.
"It is not designed to allow for the unrestricted flow of needles, but instead it’s a smart approach to creating access to those who need them," he said.
Assemblywoman Mary Pat Angelini (R-Monmouth) opposed the bill, although she acknowledged that programs to get clean needles to addicts have been shown to reduce disease.
"Selling syringes without a valid medical reason to anyone who walks in off the street is waving a white flag in the battle to make New Jersey drug-free," she said. "We cannot stick our heads in the sand and ignore the reality that drug addiction is destroying lives. This bill sends a clear message that many believe there is no hope of recovery for intravenous drug abusers."
Angelini also criticized the bill’s lack of provisions for the disposal of needles, and for not requiring those buying needles to present ID to show they’re over 18.
But Assemblyman Reed Gusciora (D-Mercer), another sponsor, said the bill requires pharmacies to provide information to buyers about safe disposal and drug treatment programs.
"This sensible and controlled approach will enable syringe users to take personal responsibility for both their health and the health of others and hopefully get them on a path to treatment," he said.
Other supporters say the bill said it give diabetes patients easier access to needles as well.
Under the bill, anyone who buys a needle and sells it to another person could be charged with a disorderly persons offense, punishable by a maximum of six months in prison and a fine of up to $1,000.
Related coverage:
• N.J. Assembly panel clears bill allowing sale of hypodermic needles in stores
• Bill that would allow over the counter sales of hypodermic needles advances in N.J. Assembly
• Legalizing sales of syringes, needles to IV drug users to be weighed by N.J. Assembly committee