It appears Indiana lawmakers have agreed plan which they hope will help stem the HIV outbreak in Southern Indiana.  And that plan includes a local needle-exchange program that is supervised by the State.

Public health officials estimate more than 140 people have contracted HIV through the use of needle sharing in Scott and Jackson counties.

The use of a needle-exchange program has caused some divisions between public health and public safety officials.

Republican State Senator Brandt Hershman explained the proposals to reporters this afternoon during a break on the Senate floor.

You can hear his comments above in the Leon-Tailored Audio above.  They run about 8 minutes.

The proposal must still be approved by both Chambers.