While research has shown the benefit of needle exchanges, which provide sterile needles free of charge to individuals, as well as a space to safely dispose of dirty needles, a number of state legislatures have been reluctant to adopt such a program until the surge in opioid-related deaths subsides. According to Kaiser Health News, “at least four legislatures have considered bills to allow hypodermic needle exchanges, and two states, Georgia and Idaho, made them legal this year. In each of these states, the House and Senate are controlled by Republicans and the governor is a Republican.” Currently, 28 states and the District of Columbia have authorized needle exchanges.