As our community grapples with the complexities of substance abuse, it's imperative to address the operation of the needle exchange program in Lewis County.
Ordinance 1354 proposes the addition of Chapter 8.80 to the Lewis County Code, aiming to regulate sterile needle and syringe exchanges. Let's delve into the critical issues outlined in the ordinance.
A mobile needle exchange raises concerns regarding its operations. Beyond distributing needles, it provides drug paraphernalia such as cookers for heroin. This raises significant safety and public health concerns, requiring tighter oversight.
It is crucial to acknowledge that the needle exchange program is funded by taxpayers through the state. Ensuring accountability and responsible resource allocation is paramount to uphold public trust.
The ordinance requires conducting a one used needle for one clean needle exchange at fixed locations, prohibiting mobile clinics. This regulation enhances accountability and oversight and ensures drug treatment options are engaged in. Additionally, the prohibition of safe or supervised injection sites is outlined in the ordinance.
The ordinance also:
• Strictly prohibits the distribution of any other drug paraphernalia besides needles and syringes. This measure aims to prevent enabling drug use and prioritize public safety.
• Operators must provide on-site counseling and referrals for substance use disorder treatment programs. This emphasis on education and treatment reflects a proactive approach to addressing addiction.
• Prohibits giving needles to individuals under 18, prioritizing the protection of vulnerable populations. This measure underscores the commitment to safeguarding youth from the dangers of substance abuse.
• Fixed locations for needle exchange must have site security and cannot be exclusively zoned for residential purposes. These requirements ensure the safety of both participants and the surrounding community.
• Providers are required to submit data and reports, promoting transparency and accountability within the program. This data-driven approach enables informed decision-making and program evaluation.
Lewis County has experienced a surge in overdose deaths over the past three years, reaching a staggering all-time high of more than 40 fatalities in 2023. Alarmingly, Washington state leads the country in overdose deaths, underscoring the severity of the crisis. The repercussions of this epidemic extend beyond public health, contributing significantly to our state's homeless issues. The financial toll is immense, with hundreds of millions of dollars allocated to address the drug crisis in the proposed state budget for 2023-2025, totaling over $1.4 billion.
Despite these substantial investments, the situation continues to deteriorate, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address substance abuse and its devastating consequences.
Harm reduction emerged in the 1980s during the HIV/AIDS crisis, aiming to minimize the negative impacts of behaviors such as substance use through strategies like needle exchange programs and safe injection sites. It’s time to reassess the effectiveness of harm reduction strategies.
Critics argue that these approaches, once hailed as vital, are now falling short. The urgency of the opioid crisis demands a pivot toward more comprehensive solutions, prioritizing prevention, treatment and support services to save lives.
We need meaningful intervention, not just more camps, injection sites, exchanges, safer supply or free stuff; what's essential is providing individuals with the support and resources necessary for them to have a fighting chance at overcoming their challenges.
As Lewis County residents, it's crucial to engage in the public conversation surrounding Ordinance 1354. I encourage community members to participate in the upcoming hearing at 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 19, at the Lewis County Courthouse. Whether in person or virtually, your input is invaluable in shaping policies that prioritize public safety, accountability, and support for those affected by addiction.
You can also submit public testimony to bocc@lewiscountywa.gov.
The ordinance can be found at https://www.facebook.com/LewisCountyCommissioners.
•••
Sean Swope is a Republican Lewis County commissioner representing the Centralia area. He can be reached by email at sean.swope@lewiscountywa.gov. To submit a letter to the editor of 500 words or less, email letters@chronline.com.
