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Chico City Council Considers Vote On Needle Ban

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The Chico City Council will consider adopting an emergency ordinance Tuesday that would prohibit syringe exchange programs within city limits. 

 

Last month, the council directed the city’s attorney to find any legal means to ban the programs

 

Opponents of the programs say they have led to needle litter in local parks and other public spaces. Proponents say they reduce the spread of disease and can encourage drug rehabilitation.

The ordinance would classify syringe exchange programs as a public nuisance punishable by infraction or misdemeanor. 

 

In a staff report to the council, City Attorney Andrew Jared said other municipalities, such as Oroville, Paradise, and Marysville, have banned needle programs.

 

The City Council will meet Tuesday at 6 p.m. The meeting can be watched on the city’s website.