Needle Exchange Bill

* Once again, efforts to initiate needle exchange programs in California have failed to make it past Gov. Pete Wilson’s desk (Oct. 9). His main reason is that support for needle exchange condones drug use, and hence sends the wrong message to drug addicts. Gov. Wilson, is your veto sending the right message? I believe your message says that we would rather see drug addicts spreading HIV and dying from AIDS than letting them think we approve of their behavior.

Data from needle exchange programs across the country show that such efforts are effective in reducing the spread of HIV. Also, exchange programs are often the only contact point that addicts have for getting information about drug rehabilitation and AIDS prevention. Furthermore, there has been no evidence that such programs lead to increased drug use. Support of needle exchange programs does not condone drug use. It recognizes that lives are being needlessly lost to dirty needles. People are dying, Governor. Certainly, we shouldn’t condone that.

MICHAEL W. QUICK

Pasadena

* I am outraged that Gov. Wilson vetoed legislation supporting an experimental clean needle exchange program in California. In doing so, Wilson has imposed a death sentence on thousands of intravenous drug users in this state.

Some politicians find it effortless to proclaim, “Just say no to drugs.” Unfortunately, that tired Nancy Reagan adage is not saving people from the AIDS epidemic.

I anxiously await the day California elects a governor who cares about human lives.

ANDREW R. EXLER

Palm Springs