Boston mayor Thomas Menino on Monday announced that he plans to introduce a bill in the Massachusetts legislature that would allow pharmacies in Boston to sell hypodermic needles without a prescription as a way to cut HIV infection rates among injection drug users, the Boston Herald reports. "The AIDS crisis is not over," Menino said. "The numbers are growing. We've got to do something. We need another tool in place." About 32% of all people with AIDS in Massachusetts contracted HIV through injection-drug use, according to a report by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Boston already has a needle-exchange program, but Menino hopes that by allowing pharmacies to sell needles over the counter other communities will eventually follow suit.
Search
AI Powered
Human content,
AI powered search.
Latest Stories
Stay up to date with the latest in LGBTQ+ news with The Advocate’s email newsletter, in your inbox five days a week.
@ 2026 Equal Entertainment LLC.
All rights reserved
All rights reserved
By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
The Latest
Support Independent Journalism
LGBTQ+ stories deserve to betold.
Your membership powers The Advocate's original reporting—stories that inform, protect, and celebrate our community.
Become a Member
FOR AS LITTLE AS $5. CANCEL ANYTIME.
More For You
Most Popular
@ 2026 Equal Entertainment LLC. All Rights reserved














