San Francisco's Mayor Daniel Lurie has directed the Public Health Department to reduce harm reduction programs, stirring significant controversy. Health experts and harm reduction advocates argue that eliminating supplies for safer drug use contradicts evidence supporting their effectiveness in reducing overdoses and connecting users to necessary treatment. Advocates highlight that initiatives aimed at addressing outdoor drug markets favor law enforcement over public health strategies, potentially jeopardizing the safety and health of drug users. The administration is under pressure to find effective solutions amid a persistent drug crisis.
"This idea that if you make smoking supplies disappear, people are going to stop using - it's a smokescreen and really misguided," said Laura Guzman, executive director of the National Harm Reduction Coalition.
"The only good thing about fentanyl was it helped me get off needles. The needle... that's really depressing," Andreyev, 42, told KQED while waiting for a ride to a shelter.
"Smoking supplies, in particular, engage communities that are not already engaged in needle exchange programs...that directive goes contrary to all evidence," said Guzman.
"We are actively dismantling the illegal drug markets as part of our ongoing commitment to public safety. San Franciscans deserve safe and clean streets," Lurie posted.
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