While initial signs indicated that President Clinton supported the use of funds for the programs, Clinton changed his mind and decided to deny federal money for needle-exchanges, at the same time endorsing their scientific validity. White House aides contend that even had Clinton approved the funding, the decision would have been overturned in Congress.
Opponents assert that the programs condone drug abuse.
However, the Clinton administration supports the claim that the programs reduce the spread of HIV among injection drug users, their sexual partners and children, without encouraging drug use. Shalala noted that state and local governments should move forward, despite the ban on federal funds, with needle-exchange programs now that they have the administration's support.