The Delaware General Assembly has approved a measure that will allow needle-exchange programs to be established in hopes of preventing AIDS among injection-drug users, the Wilmington News Journal reported June 30.

The 23-15 vote in the Delaware House leaves New Jersey as the only state without a needle-exchange law. "It's the right thing for the people of Delaware," said Sen. Margaret Henry, the chief legislative backer of the Delaware needle-exchange legislation. "I'm very proud tonight." House Majority Leader Wayne A. Smith (R) opposed the bill, saying it condones drug use, but the measure passed over his objections.

Delaware Gov. Ruth Ann Minner said she would sign the measure into law. "We think it will make a difference for AIDS and the people of Delaware," she said. "It's for the people who have problems and to make sure they don't contaminate others."