EVANSVILLE — As local advocates work to create a syringe exchange program in Evansville, the framework for the whole system is up in the air at the state level.
Indiana has a had a syringe exchange law on the books since 2015. IC 16-41-7.5 allows for the creation of syringe programs in the state. Syringe service programs allow individuals who inject substances to get new, sterile syringes and other items to make the process safer.
The programs are a part of harm reduction services, which offer supplies like clean syringes, Naloxone, condoms and items for wound care.
With the creation of these syringe programs, the law also included an expiration clause that set the law to end July 1, 2026.
Without a renewal from the state legislature, programs around the state will end. And for Evansville, one will never come to fruition.
Advocates are asking Hoosiers to reach out to their state officials to support the extension of the program. There is also a form letter for organizations to sign on that will be sent to Gov. Mike Braun and the entirety of the legislature in Indiana.
What is the goal in Evansville?
Evansville Recovery Alliance is working with many community partners to create a syringe exchange program in the city.
There's a survey available to share experiences with other programs, or thoughts on bringing one to the city.
ERA's EVV 4 SSP Coalition is doing the work. Its membership includes ERA, Matthew 25 AIDS Services, NAACP EVV Branch 3048B, Evansville Comprehensive Treatment Center, AIDS Resource Group, Patchwork Central, Southwestern Behavioral Healthcare, SWIRE, Aurora Evansville, Indiana Recovery Alliance, Hoosier Harm Reduction Coalition and the IU Center for Rural Engagement.
Their aim is to ultimately reach a point to draft an ordinance in collaboration with the Evansville City Council and the Vanderburgh County Health Department.
Where in Indiana do syringe programs already exist?
According to the Indiana Department of Health, eight counties in the state are providing syringe program services.
Allen
Clark
Fayette
Madison
Marion
Monroe
Tippecanoe
Wayne
Over 23,000 people have participated in the program since 2015, state department data state. That includes 8,200 in 2024.
Who do syringe service programs serve?
Anyone who needs new injecting equipment is welcomed at a syringe program. That includes people who have diabetes or other heath conditions with prescription syringe use.
What is the impact of syringe program?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, syringe service programs are associated with around 50% reduction in incidence of HIV and Hepatitis C.
"Nearly 30 years of research show that comprehensive SSPs are safe, effective, and cost-saving," the CDC states. "They do not increase illegal drug use or crime, and they play an important role in reducing the transmission of viral hepatitis, human immunodeficiency virus, and other infections."