U.S. House Committee OKs Curbs to Needle Distribution

A U.S. House committee approved Thursday legislation that would bar groups providing federally funded health care services to runaway youths from giving clean needles to those who abuse injection drugs. However, groups would still be able to use private money for syringe distribution. Lawmakers approved the ban as part of a bill authorizing $105 million in federal homelessness and runaway programs for next year. The bill helps fund street outreach, health and shelter programs for homeless youth. "The last thing we need to do for a homeless child is enable them to continue the injections of illegal drugs into their body," said Rep. Marilyn Musgrave (R-Colo.). Democrats complained the measure was unneeded since federal regulations already bar federally funded clean needle programs. The committee rejected another amendment, also sponsored by Musgrave, seeking to prevent federally funded groups from distributing contraceptives. The bill must now go to the full House for a vote. The Senate has yet to debate any related legislation.

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