May 14, 2003 SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) -- In an attempt to fight the spread of AIDS, Illinois lawmakers passed legislation that would make it easier for drug users to obtain clean needles.
The Illinois House voted 70-48 Tuesday to lift a requirement that people have a prescription to buy needles and syringes. Gov. Rod Blagojevich expects to sign the legislation, spokeswoman Cheryle Jackson said.
The change would allow adults to buy up to 20 needles at pharmacies, which would provide them with information about proper handling of the needles.
"It's about saving lives," said Rep. Larry McKeon, a Chicago Democrat who is HIV positive. "The research is very clear. It significantly decreases the transmission of blood-borne pathogens."
Critics argued it would send a message that using drugs is acceptable and would make it easier for addicts to take drugs.
The measure's sponsor, Democratic Rep. Sara Feigenholtz of Chicago said Illinois is one of only five states that require prescriptions to buy needles. The others are Massachusetts, California, Delaware and New Jersey.
Copyright 2003 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
