Colorado is considering a proposal to allow safe injection sites

A bill proposed in Colorado would give local governments the green light to set up so-called “safe injection sites” in their jurisdictions, with proponents saying the facilities help prevent overdoses and save lives.

Also known as “Overdose Prevention Centers,” the sites have been approved in other states and cities across the United States — but rarely without controversy.

The legislation, introduced in the Colorado House of Representatives, would “allow locations to set up a site where people can use previously acquired controlled substances.”[s] in a monitored environment,” according to local news station Denver7.

The Associated Press reported that Democratic lawmakers there “moved the controversial law forward in committee Wednesday,” but while the party controls the state General Assembly, “the measure faces broad backlash from police, Republicans and ongoing questions about whether the Websites are legal even in the United States.”

A year ago, the US Department of Justice told the Associated Press that it was “evaluating” the sites and talking to regulators about putting in place “appropriate guard rails.”

“It’s definitely not supplying drugs. Nor does it force a local government in any city to set up one of these sites in their communities,” said Jenny Willford, a Democrat, Colorado State Assemblyman, as quoted by Denver7.

In late 2021, New York City opened the nation’s first overdose prevention center, a year after the city suffered more than 2,000 drug overdose deaths, the highest number in two decades.

The city, citing a report from its health department, estimates that the overdose prevention centers could prevent up to 130 deaths a year.

“New York City has led the nation’s fight against COVID-19, and the fight to keep our community safe doesn’t stop there. After thorough investigation, we know the right way to protect the most vulnerable people in our city. And we won’t hesitate to take it,” said Bill de Blasio, then-Mayor of New York City. “Overdose prevention centers are a safe and effective way to address the opioid crisis. I’m proud to show cities across this country that after decades of failure, a smarter approach is possible.”

A study published last year found that NYC’s overdose prevention centers were doing their job.

“Between November 30, 2021 and January 31, 2022, 613 people used OPC services 5,975 times at two locations,” according to the study, conducted by the NYC Health Department.

“During the first 2 months of OPC operation, trained personnel responded 125 times to mitigate the risk of overdose. In response to opioid-related overdose symptoms, naloxone was administered 19 times and oxygen 35 times, while respiration or blood oxygen levels were monitored 26 times. In response to stimulant-related symptoms of overdose (also known as overamping), staff intervened 45 times to provide hydration, cooling and de-escalation as needed. Ambulance responded 5 times and participants were transported to the emergency room 3 times. No fatal overdoses occurred in OPCs or in people transported to hospitals,” the study continued. “More than half of people using OPC services (52.5%) received additional assistance during their visit. This included, but is not limited to, naloxone distribution, counseling, hepatitis C testing, medical care, and holistic services (e.g., ear acupuncture).”

It remains to be seen whether the facilities will be approved in Colorado, where some Republicans have already expressed concerns.

“You’re basically sending a message, ‘Hey, it’s okay to do this,'” said GOP state assemblyman Gabe Evans, as quoted by the Associated Press.