STATE CAPITOL DISTRICT OFFICES
P.O. BOX 942849 A?gemhlg 1130 CIVIC CENTER BOULEVARD. SUITE 
SAC FIAMENTO. CA 94249-0003 YUBA CITY. CA 95993
(916) 319-2003 (530) 671-0303

FAX (91 6) 319-2103 @?lif?rt?? ?c?Bgi?laf?tB FAX (530) 671-0308

2060 TALBERT DRIVE. SUITE 110
CHICO. CA 95928
(530) 895-4217
FAX (530) 895-4219




 

THIRD DISTRICT

February 18, 2020

Sonia Y. Angel], MD, MPH

Director, California Department of Public Health
PO Box 997377, MS 0500

Sacramento, CA 95899-73 77

Dear Director Angel],

I write to express my strong concerns regarding the North Valley Harm Reduction
Coalition syringe distribution program, which was authorized by CDPH pursuant to
California Health and Safety Code (HSC) Section 121349 on October 14th, 2019. While HIV
and hepatitis prevention are worthy goals, I am concerned that this program is ineffective in
addressing future outbreaks while causing extensive negative community impacts. These include
the large distribution of needles and drug paraphernalia to drug users, distribution to minors,
deterioration of public spaces, and improper needle disposal, among others. I hope CDPH can
address these and other issues, speci?cally:

I. Underage Distribution. Health and Safety Code Section 11364.5 establishes 18
as the minimum age to have access to drug paraphernalia. However, it has been
brought to my attention that minors are able to receive needles through this
program. In one documented instance, a minor was given 30 syringes, among
other drug paraphernalia, no questions asked. What is the minimum age to
distribute and receive needles through programs established under HSC
Section 121349? What will the Department do to investigate claims of
underage distribution, and what are the penalties for underage distribution?

2. Improper Disposal. Local law enforcement of?cers have described a rapidly
deteriorating situation stemming from the syringe distribution program.
Of?cers have seen an increase in property destruction and improper disposal.
Large quantities of contaminated needles are also being found in public spaces.
CDPH required as a condition of approval, to clean up any reported
syringe litter within a reasonable time frame. What does CDPH consider a
?reasonable time frame? for to clean up reported syringe litter?

3. Violating Terms of Operation. CDPH required as a condition of

approval, to operate a hotline for the public to report improperly disposed
syringes. However, the ?hotline? is not adequately staffed, resulting in law

Printed on Recycled Paper

enforcement of?cers now being taken off the beat in order to safely collect
improperly discarded syringes. Additionally, syringes have been found
in Oroville, Gridley, and throughout Butte County. However, is refusing
to clean up these needles outside of the City of Chico. Does this violate the
CDPH terms of operation? Should the permit be revoked until the
organization can get a handle on reporting and syringe collection?

I appreciate any assistance CDPH can offer to address these questions, and a response by
February 24th. It is unacceptable that law enforcement of?cers and the public?s safety are being
put at risk While this program continues to operate. Given the public health threats caused by
continued operation, I also ask that CDPH consider revoking authorization of this program
pending further review. Thank you for your attention to this matter, if you need further
information please do not hesitate to contact my of?ce at (916) 319-2003.

Sincerely,

  

n, 31?d District

 
 

cc. Marisa Ramos, Chief, Of?ce of AIDS, Center for Infectious Diseases, CDPH