SB 188 on the House Floor. Act Now!

Many states have syringe exchange programs, but such programs are not currently authorized under Texas law.

These programs have the potential to significantly reduce the spread of dangerous diseases, not only among drug addicts, but also among innocent victims, including the spouses of intravenous drug users, as well as first responders and law enforcement personnel who may come into contact with infected needles in the performance of their duties.

In addition, an important element of the program is to provide outreach services, including counseling, education on the transmission and prevention of communicable diseases, and substance abuse treatment, with the goal of reducing the rate of intravenous drug use and the number of innocent victims who become infected.

SB 188 provides for the establishment of a disease control outreach program in certain counties.

Texas Eagle Forum  is working to prevent authorization of syringe exchange programs in Texas with the false claims that they legalize drug activity and enable drug addicts.

FACT CHECK:

1. Do syringe exchange programs stop the transmission of blood-borne communicable diseases?   YES.
2. Do syringe exchange programs increase drug use or drug-related activity?  NO.

SB 188 is authored by Senators Deuell and Van de Putte, with co-authors Senators Hinojosa, Wentworth, West and Zaffirini.  The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 23-6.

SB 188 is now in the Texas House, where it is sponsored by Representatives Coleman, McClendon, Ortiz III, Zerwas, and Susan King; with co-sponsors Representatives Naishtat and Strama.

Syringe exchange programs are sound public health policy.

SB 188 is currently on the House floor. 

Call your State Representative and ask them to vote "FOR" SB 188.

To find your State Representative's office number, please click here or call the Capitol Information Office at 512-463-4630.

You can also send an email to your State Representative using the following guide: First.Last@house.state.tx.us