Cities Move Away From Strategies That Make Drug Use Safer

The article discusses how some cities in the United States are moving away from "harm reduction" strategies that aim to reduce the negative consequences of drug use. Specifically, San Francisco and Philadelphia are retreating from these approaches, which have been effective in reducing drug-related deaths but have also been criticized for contributing to visible public drug use. The article notes that these "harm reduction" strategies, such as safe injection sites and needle exchanges, have been opposed by critics, including former President Trump. The cities are now shifting their focus towards more enforcement-based approaches, in response to public concerns about the visibility of drug use in their communities. The article highlights the ongoing debate around drug policy, with some advocating for a public health-focused approach and others favoring more punitive measures. It underscores the challenging balance that cities must strike between addressing the immediate concerns of their residents and implementing evidence-based strategies to reduce the harms associated with drug use.