A Shot in the Arm for Needle Exchanges

A new California law eases restrictions on needle-exchange programs by removing a requirement that required regions to declare a public-health emergency every two weeks in order to keep the exchanges operating. Health officials say the relaxed regulations could allow as many as six more counties in the state to launch needle exchanges. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a similar bill in 2004 but was swayed by support from law enforcement and public-health organizations as this year's measure proceeded through the legislature.