Resolution 16-008 Supporting a Syringe Exchange Program in Homer

CITY OF HOMER
                                                                                HOMER, ALASKA
                                                                                                                                                                                Lewis

                                                                           RESOLUTION 16-008

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF HOMER, ALASKA, SUPPORTING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A SYRINGE EXCHANGE PROGRAM IN HOMER.

WHEREAS, Syringe exchange programs (SEPs) provide free sterile syringes and collect used syringes from injection drug users to reduce transmission of blood borne pathogens, including HIV, and Hepatitis B and C viruses; and

WHEREAS, Most SEPs also offer HIV/Hepatitis counselling and testing and referral to substance abuse treatment; and

WHEREAS, There are over 1,000 new cases of Hepatitis C and over 100 new cases of HIV in Alaska each year; and

WHEREAS, SEPs reduce virus transmission by about 30%; and

WHEREAS, There is significant cost savings associated with reducing instances of Hepatitis C, HIV, and injection drug related bacterial infections; and

WHEREAS, According to the World Health Organization there is compelling evidence that increasing the availability and utilization of sterile injection equipment by injection drug users reduces HIV infection substantially; and

WHEREAS, In 2000 U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Satcher issued a statement that SEPs are an effective HIV prevention strategy and do not encourage the use of illegal drugs; and

WHEREAS, SEPs have the added benefit of increasing recruitment into drug treatment programs and primary care.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Homer, Alaska, that the City of Homer supports the establishment of a Syringe Exchange Program in the City of Homer.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Homer City Council this 11th day of January, 2016.

CITY OF HOMER

                                                                                                         _____________________

                                                                                                         MARY E. WYTHE, MAYOR

ATTEST:

___________________________

JO JOHNSON, MMC, CITY CLERK

Fiscal information: N/A