Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen vetoes ‘problematic’ needle proposal

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Gov. Jim Pillen vetoed a bill Monday that would distribute hypodermic needles to drug users to prevent the spread of diseases.

Legislative Bill 307, introduced by State Sen. Megan Hunt of Omaha, passed 30-7 on Thursday.  The proposal was then sent to Pillen for approval.

If the bill becomes law, public or behavioral health programs could distribute needles.

The bill’s goal was to protect the public by promoting the safe use and disposal of syringes.

In a statement Monday, Pillen called the legislation “problematic.”

“As written, it exposes our kids to increased dangers, by allowing them to participate in needle exchange programs and does nothing to enhance the safety of our communities,” he said. “There is also evidence that these programs lead to enhanced drug use and does not result in significant reductions in the transmission of communicable diseases.”

Hunt quickly filed a motion to override Pillen’s veto.  That would take at least 30 votes.

In a post to social media, Hunt said Pillen cited “a lot of misinformation” in his reasoning for vetoing the bill.

“My colleagues understand that LB 307 is tailored to the needs of Nebraskans through input of local experts, stakeholders and practitioners,” she wrote.