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Expert warns against local ordinance restricting syringe programs; commissioner defends exploring option
Summary
A substance-use-policy expert told the board that restricting syringe service programs risks public-health harms and ADA litigation; Commissioner West said exploring a local ordinance inspired by Senate Bill 1573 is a lawful, common-sense local response and pledged public conversations.
Mitchell Doig, a state-credentialed substance-use counselor, urged Clackamas County commissioners on March 5 not to pursue local restrictions on syringe service programs, warning that such measures would harm public health and may violate the Americans with Disabilities Act.
"These services have had the single greatest impact on hepatitis C and HIV... having been estimated to reduce HIV transmission by 50 percent," Doig said, summarizing published evidence…
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