Safe injection sites bill moves forward in Vermont Senate

MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) – The Vermont Senate has given preliminary approval to a bill allowing for the creation of so-called safe injection sites.

The rate of fatal overdoses has skyrocketed in recent years driven by fentanyl and xylazine.

The Senate voted 21-8 to create a pilot program where people could have their drugs tested and then consume them under medical supervision.

In an at-times emotional debate on the Senate floor, state lawmakers called them another tool in the toolbox to fight the toll of addiction.

“It really is another thing we can do in Vermont to save lives,” said Sen. Ruth Hardy, D-Addison County.

“I don’t think Vermont’s toolbox is ready for this tool. Different tools require different supports, safety procedures, different mechanisms to make sure everybody knows how to use the tool and make sure it’s used safely,” said Sen. Tom Chittenden, D-Chittenden County.

Some lawmakers have concerns about young people accessing the sites or federal authorities cracking down on them since they are still illegal.

Vermont Gov. Phil Scott has said he has moral and logistical concerns about the bill and has said he will veto it.

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