New York focuses on harm reduction for drug use

President Trump is pushing for stricter measures against the flow of fentanyl across the borders with Canada and Mexico. He believes that illegal drugs are a crisis, claiming they are responsible for many deaths in the United States. In his speeches, he has called for action to stop this problem. However, New York appears to be taking a different approach to the issue of drug use. Instead of trying to reduce drug consumption, state agencies are focusing on harm reduction. This means they are accepting that some people will use drugs and are providing services to support safer usage instead of discouraging drug use altogether. The Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) in New York is promoting programs that help people access safe use supplies rather than encouraging them to avoid drugs. One program, called "Always On," allows people to order harm reduction supplies online. This includes items like fentanyl test strips and naloxone, which help manage drug use rather than eliminate it. New York's approach extends to cannabis use as well. The Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) is running campaigns to educate people about legal marijuana use. They focus on safety tips and consumption rules but do not address the negative effects of marijuana use. Recent studies suggest legal adult use may lead to cognitive impairment, but this information is not highlighted in state campaigns. While New York spends millions on promoting safer drug use and cannabis, little effort is made to warn citizens about the dangers of substance abuse. In contrast, there are significant efforts to discourage tobacco use, despite the fact that smoking rates are at an all-time low in the state. This raises questions about the influence of state agencies on public health and whether they are truly committed to reducing drug-related issues. Overall, New York's strategy seems to embrace drug use rather than combat it, signaling a shift in how the state views these issues.