Lewiston's City Council approved final passage of amended changes to the city's business-license chapter covering syringe service programs after a lengthy public hearing and council debate. The ordinance, which councilors framed as a regulatory framework for licensed syringe service providers, passed on second reading by a 5-2 roll-call vote following an earlier 7-0 vote to adopt specific technical amendments.

Councillor Chittum moved amendments that clarified effective-date language and sought to ensure compliance with HIPAA protections; the council approved those technical amendments unanimously before returning to the main motion. Opponents at public comment, including Rick Kai, president of the firefighters association, warned that an "unlimited" exchange could increase discarded needles and risk for first responders and residents. Supporters and other public commenters urged the council to move forward to provide harm-reduction services while coupling the program with treatment referrals and a future review.

During council debate several members acknowledged the ordinance was imperfect. Councillor Longchamps and Councillor Gallant said they were concerned by the quantity allowed per exchange and favored caps to encourage more frequent contact with providers; other members said the ordinance reflects compromise and offers local protections not present in state policy. Councillor Nejean and others urged a six-month review to revisit outcomes and possible changes. The council adopted the amended ordinance on a roll-call vote of 5 in favor and 2 opposed.

The council did not approve additional funding or operational contracts for a service provider at the meeting; several council members and public commenters asked administration to report back with implementation details and a timeframe for review. The council indicated it expects to revisit the program in months to evaluate community impacts and enforcement needs.