Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
Available On Air Stations
Watch Live

National

Washington OK'd for Needle-Exchange Programs

Washington, D.C., reports having the highest rate of AIDS infection of any major U.S. city. President Bush signs legislation that allows Washington to use local tax money to fund needle-exchange programs. Congress, when it was under the control of the Republicans, prohibited Washington from funding such programs for almost a decade. Washington health officials say the ban contributed to city's high rate of HIV and AIDS infections.

A new law is passed in New Jersey that makes HIV testing a standard component of prenatal care. The bill requires pregnant women to be tested, unless they refuse. A newborn whose mother's HIV status is positive or unknown would also be tested. The law is designed to help stem the infection of new babies. It makes New Jersey one of several states to require some form of prenatal testing.

Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.

Advertisement

Fact-based local news is essential

KPBS keeps you informed with local stories you need to know about — with no paywall. Our news is free for everyone because people like you help fund it.

Without federal funding, community support is our lifeline.
Make a gift to protect the future of KPBS.