By A proposed bill in Colorado would allow local governments to set up so-called “safe injection sites” within their jurisdictions, and advocates say the facilities can help prevent overdoses and save lives. said.
Also known as “Overdose Prevention Centers,” these sites are also licensed in other US states and cities, but are rarely without controversy.
A law introduced in the Colorado House of Representatives “allows local governments to set up sites where previously obtained controlled substances can be used.”[s] in a supervised environment According to local news station Denver7,.
of Associated Press report Democrats “pushed a controversial bill in committee Wednesday,” but while their party controls the state legislature, “there was widespread backlash from police, Republicans, and the site’s The bill faces great potential while questions remain about its legality.”
A year ago, the U.S. Department of Justice said to Associated Press It said it was “evaluating” the site and discussing implementing “appropriate guardrails” with regulators.
“Never offer drugs,” Colorado Rep. Jenny Wilford (Democrat) said. Quoted by Denver7.
Late 2021, New York City Open America’s first overdose prevention center was established a year after drug overdose deaths topped 2,000, the highest number in 20 years.
Citing reports from the Department of Health, the city estimated that overdose prevention centers could prevent as many as 130 deaths annually.
“New York City has led the nation’s fight against COVID-19, but the fight to keep our communities safe doesn’t stop there. We know the right path to protect the most vulnerable people in the world, and we will not hesitate to embrace it.” Bill de Blasio, then mayor of New York City,“Overdose prevention centers are a safe and effective way to address the opioid crisis. To show the nation’s cities that a smarter approach is possible after decades of failure.” I am proud to have done it.”
Research published last year It turns out that NYC’s Center for Overdose Prevention is up to the task.
“613 people used OPC service 5975 times at two sites between November 30, 2021 and January 31, 2022,” reads a study conducted by the New York City Department of Health.
“During the first two months of OPC operation, trained staff responded 125 times to reduce the risk of overdose. Thirty-five doses were administered, and respiratory or blood oxygen levels were monitored 26 times.In response to symptoms of stimulant-related overdose (also known as overampling), staff provided hydration, There were 45 interventions to provide cooling and relaxation, 5 emergency medical services were attended, and participants were transferred to the emergency department on 3 occasions. No fatal overdose occurred,” the study continued. “More than half (52.5%) of individuals using OPC services received additional support during their visit. (e.g., auricular acupuncture), including but not limited to.”
It remains to be seen whether the facility will be approved in Colorado, a state some Republicans have already expressed alarm over.
“You’re basically sending the message, ‘You can do this. As quoted by Associated Press.
