With a 21-10 vote, the California Senate approved the measure, aimed at reducing the spread of HIV and lowering healthcare costs. Earlier in the week, the Assembly passed the bill on a 41-33 vote.

Last year, Davis vetoed a similar bill. But this year's measure has been redesigned to meet the concerns outlined in his veto.

For instance, the measure includes a requirement that pharmacies establish a syringe-disposal program. In addition, local governments would be allowed to include needles in their current household hazardous-waste recovery programs.

The bill also has a sunset provision, which requires lawmakers to reauthorize the program to continue after 2007.

If Davis signs the legislation, California would become the 46th state to permit needle sales without a prescription.

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