The Council recognizes that the establishment of a needle exchange program will increase improperly disposed needles, which pose a serious risk to public health, safety and welfare due to the potential for personal bodily injury, property damage, and contamination of waterways. It is the purpose and intent of this Chapter to ban the establishment, operation, engagement, use, and/or participation in a needle exchange program within the City to protect the public health, safety, and general welfare of its residents.
This Chapter authorizes the imposition of all penalties available under state law and the Chico Municipal Code against any person or entity who violates any provision of this Ordinance to encourage and obtain compliance with the provisions of this Ordinance for the benefit and protection of the entire community.
(Ord. 2560 §2; Ord. 2561 §2)
Violation of this chapter shall be a misdemeanor or an infraction and may be enforced by the filing of a criminal action by the city attorney or the issuance of an administrative citation in accordance with Chapter 1.15 of this code. Each needle or syringe distributed in a needle exchange program shall be an independent and separate violation of this Chapter.
(Ord. 2560 §2; Ord. 2561 §2)
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