Massachusetts
lawmakers will consider needle-sale bill

The signing of a landmark health care reform law last week has allowed Massachusetts legislators to focus on other pending issues, including allowing the purchase of hypodermic needles without a prescription. "I'm hoping it will start to move again now," said state senator Susan Fargo, a supporter of the bill. Fargo said the bill is designed to curb the spread of blood-borne diseases like HIV and hepatitis C, as well as increase safety for emergency medical technicians, paramedics, firefighters, and police officers who could accidentally be stuck by concealed needles. (AP)