QUESTION
What is the status and challenges of rolling out the syringe buyback program?
1:36:52
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91 sec
A provider has been identified for the syringe buyback program in high need council districts, but challenges have delayed its rollout.
- A provider for the syringe buyback program has finally been identified after difficulties finding one.
- The program aims to provide an incentive for the buyback of needles, syringes, and sharps.
- $2,000,000 has been allocated for the program, with a daily cap of $10 or 20¢ per needle.
- Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about potential changes to eligibility criteria and the program's start date.
- Budget Director Jacques Jiha assures collaboration and updates as the program progresses.
Diana Ayala
1:36:52
My final question is regarding the syringe buyback program, local law 2022 would 124 would require DOH MH to establish a needle syringe and sharp buyback program, and 5 high need council districts.
1:37:07
DOHMH would determine eligibility for participation as well as buyback incentive for up to 20¢ per needle in a cap of $10 a day.
1:37:16
What is the current status of the buyback program?
Jacques Jiha
1:37:20
I believe they identified a a provider.
Diana Ayala
1:37:26
Okay.
Jacques Jiha
1:37:26
And they're working with a provider?
1:37:29
But as as as you know, this is a very it was a very painful process because they couldn't find.
1:37:37
A provider services.
1:37:39
So they're in the process of working with the providers, and very soon they would roll out the program.
Diana Ayala
1:37:44
Okay.
1:37:44
I wasn't aware there was an issue with the provider.
1:37:46
I don't know if there is a funding issue.
1:37:49
Okay.
Jacques Jiha
1:37:49
He had an issue.
1:37:50
He had an issue with the provider.
Diana Ayala
1:37:54
Has there been any okay.
1:37:55
So so the pilot had I did that was a question.
1:37:58
As last started, do you do you have any idea of when we can anticipate that the pilot will begin?
Jacques Jiha
1:38:03
I would have to get back to GWH and find out exactly.
Diana Ayala
1:38:06
But the funding has been identified.
Jacques Jiha
1:38:08
We will work with you as we go.
1:38:11
Forward in terms of It
Diana Ayala
1:38:12
was $2,000,000.
1:38:13
It's not a lot of money.
1:38:16
Okay.
1:38:16
And do you anticipate any eligibility criteria to change?
Jacques Jiha
1:38:19
At this point, I'm not.
Diana Ayala
1:38:21
No?
1:38:21
Okay.
1:38:22
Thank you so much.
Jacques Jiha
1:38:23
Thank you.