Mercer Times

Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation to expand access to life-saving harm reduction supplies in New Jersey. The bill allows harm reduction centers to distribute a wider range of supplies beyond naloxone, fentanyl test strips, and clean syringes. Governor Murphy emphasized the importance of harm reduction in combating the opioid epidemic, stating, "Harm reduction creates healthier communities while offering a compassionate environment for individuals with substance use disorders to access critical services."

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin praised the legislation, highlighting the significance of decriminalizing harm reduction supplies to prevent overdoses and reduce disease transmission. Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Kaitlan Baston commended the bill for enabling the state to provide modern and compassionate care to individuals struggling with addiction.

Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman emphasized the importance of harm reduction strategies in preventing overdoses and reducing stigma, stating, "Harm reduction strategies reduce stigma and allow us to meet people where they are with no judgement."

Senator Joseph F. Vitale, one of the sponsors of the bill, noted the effectiveness of harm reduction programs in curbing the spread of blood-borne illnesses and providing a bridge to substance use disorder treatment. Assemblyman Herb Conaway Jr. echoed the sentiment, stating that decriminalizing harm reduction supplies will aid individuals seeking assistance with addiction and recovery.

Assemblywoman Sadaf F. Jaffer emphasized the impact of making harm reduction supplies more readily available in helping New Jersey residents overcome obstacles in a safe manner. Assemblywoman Shanique Speight highlighted the importance of a compassionate approach to substance use issues, stating, "Harm reduction advocates and their beneficiaries will no longer face legal jeopardy for supplying or possessing essential harm reduction materials."

The American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey welcomed the legislation as a step towards ensuring access to life-saving harm reduction tools without fear of criminalization. Prevention Links CEO Morgan Thompson described the bill as a victory for public health and harm reduction in New Jersey, emphasizing the importance of making these supplies accessible to those in need.

The legislation was also praised by Caitlin O'Neill from the New Jersey Harm Reduction Coalition, who highlighted the positive impact on reducing overdose deaths and improving drug user health. Policy Director Elizabeth Ruebman of the Newark Community Street Team emphasized the life-saving potential of the bill, stating that fewer New Jerseyans will die as a result.

Marleina Ubel, Senior Policy Analyst at New Jersey Policy Perspective, commended the legislation for embracing evidence-based solutions that center compassion and public health in addressing substance use issues. Ubel noted that New Jersey is emerging as a national leader in undoing the harms of the drug war and promoting effective responses to substance use.

Overall, the bipartisan support and advocacy behind the bill underscore the importance of expanding access to harm reduction supplies in New Jersey to save lives and promote public health.