Join us in urging Jefferson Parish to allow Syringe Exchange programs for the health of our community. 

Read our Letter to the Editor

In our clinical training as local medical students, we’ve met patients whose lives could have been transformed by access to syringe service programs. The teen with HIV whose body shuts down when she gets a common cold, the young man rebuilding his life after a heart infection from reusing dirty needles and the grandmother who swears she would rather die than go to a hospital due to the stigma of her addiction — each reminds us what’s at stake when access to clean needles is out of reach.

Currently, Jefferson Parish lacks the legal framework to support these life-saving programs. It's crucial that we urge the local government to enact legislation that allows the establishment of needle exchange programs.

In states where needle exchanges are legal, studies have indicated a significant decrease in the spread of infectious diseases. Beyond health benefits, these programs are cost-effective and can decrease health care costs by $7.58 for every $1 spent. Legalizing syringe services would reduce HIV, hepatitis C, and costly hospitalizations, while creating opportunities to build trust with historically marginalized communities.  Evidence consistently shows SSPs do not increase drug use, neighborhood crime, or needle litter. 

Louisiana law allows each parish to authorize their own syringe service programs (SSPs), run via local non-profits or health departments. Orleans Parish has already done so: Jefferson Parish can do the same

It is time for Jefferson Parish to join Orleans Parish and communities nationwide in supporting harm reduction strategies. By signing this petition, you are advocating for a safer, healthier community. Please lend your voice today in favor of passing legislation that permits the establishment of free needle programs in Jefferson Parish. Your signature can help ensure access to medical services that save lives. Sign the petition now to make a difference.