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Oroville City Council Opposes State Proposal To Amend Syringe Exchange Program Rules

Oroville Chamber of Commerce

The Oroville City Council Tuesday unanimously approved sending a letter to the state, opposing proposed rule changes governing syringe exchange programs.

 

City Administrator Bill LaGrone told the council that the California Department of Public Health is seeking to amend state regulations to make clear the department can authorize syringe exchange programs regardless of local bans.

“Regardless of how you feel about syringe exchange programs, the real problem that I see is that the state is attempting to subvert your local authority to regulate your community,” LaGrone said.

 

The City Council approved an ordinance last year disallowing syringe exchange programs within city limits, following reports of needle litter on public and private property.

 

The state proposal is in the 45-day public comment period.