BILL NUMBER:A10782

TITLE OF BILL:  An act to amend the public health law, in relation to
allowing certain lactation consultants to purchase hypodermic syringes

PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL: This bill would allow certified lacta-
tion consultants to purchase syringes in order to do their jobs while
still maintaining restrictions on hypodermic needles,

SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS: This bill would amend section 3381 of
the Public Health Law by adding a new subdivision, I-a.

JUSTIFICATION: Though well intentioned, the laws restricting the sale of
syringes and hypodermic needles have unintended negative consequences on
lactation consultants. Currently, they cannot buy one of the key tools
of their trade, the syringe, directly, Instead, they must go through a
doctor. This intermediary is unnecessary and raises the costs of lacta-
tion consultation for new mothers.

Please note that syringes are distinct from hypodermic needles. A
syringe is a hollow tube that has a plunger and is designed to hold
liquids. Hypodermic needles may be fitted on to the end of the syringe
for injecting medicine under the skin, for example. The difference
between needles and syringes is significant because this legislation
leaves the limitations on hypodermic needles intact.  Without hypodermic
needles, syringes cannot be used to inject illegal narcotics.