Last year, more than 700 people died from overdose. Too many of our elected leaders continue to approach drug use as an issue of crime and punishment rather than a matter of public health — and our communities are paying the price.

Right now the legislature is considering a bill, LD 1364, that would allow cities and towns in Maine to open federally-funded harm reduction health centers to prevent overdoses and save lives.

Harm reduction health centers are sites where people can use previously-obtained drugs under medical supervision. At the same time, they can receive disease screenings and other health care services, as well as options to begin recovery.

There are more than 200 harm reduction health centers around the world – including in New York City, Rhode Island, and soon, Minnesota—and numerous studies have shown that they improve health outcomes, reduce overdose deaths, and increase access to health services. These centers save lives.

Email your lawmaker and urge them to vote yes on LD 1364 to prevent overdoses and save lives.