The Indiana State Department of Health has declared a public health emergency in Tippecanoe County, allowing for the establishment of the ninth syringe exchange program in the state.
The Tippecanoe County Commissioners voted in mid-November to ask the state for permission to establish a syringe exchange and services program aimed at reducing the spread of hepatitis C among intravenous drug users.
Lafayette Mayor Tony Roswarski and Police Chief Pat Flannelly expressed opposition to the idea.
The program will not receive funding from the state, and will operate with the help of non-profit organizations.