Governor Phil Murphy

Statement by Governor Murphy on the Atlantic City Council’s Vote to Close the City’s Only Syringe Access Program

07/21/2021

“I am deeply disappointed by the Atlantic City Council’s decision to close the city’s syringe access program. This action will endanger some of the city’s most at-risk residents and contradicts my Administration’s comprehensive, data-driven strategy to end the opioid crisis. My Administration continues to assess paths forward and we remain committed to preserving access to these evidence-based and life-saving services for Atlantic City and area residents. I share the City Council’s vision for a healthy and vibrant Atlantic City and, moving forward, I hope the council will work with us to advance measures that promote both public health and economic health in the city. As we've said repeatedly throughout the pandemic, public health promotes economic health.

“Now, more than ever, because of the increase in opioid-related deaths, is the time to push forward and continue in our broader efforts to expand harm reduction centers across the state. Individuals struggling with addiction deserve access to the critical, compassionate services they need to stay alive, recover, and thrive.”