In 2009, Congress lifted the 21-year ban on federal funding for Syringe Services Programs (SSPs; also known as Syringe Exchange Programs), allowing states to maintain and expand their SSPs using federal dollars. Two years later, Congress reinstated the ban, despite the evidence that SSPs prevent HIV infection, promote safety for the public and law enforcement, and save taxpayer dollars. While a variety of medical, scientific, and faith-based organizations recognize the benefits of SSPs, barriers to SSP funding remain in place. This powerpoint serves as an educational tool on the issues surrounding SSPs and poises advocates to lobby Congress to remove the ban on use of federal funding for SSPs.
Click on image to download the complete Syringe Services Programs: Myth vs. Fact (2MB PowerPoint)