The trust’s decision reflects a misconception that two of the most pressing needs in Kensington — addressing the quality-of-life concerns of long-term residents and treating individuals with substance use disorders with care and empathy — are separate issues.

“We know that when we put out medications or tools such as syringes or drug checking equipment to keep people safe, we can then help them move on to their next part of their journey of their life," said Carla Sofronski, executive director of the PA Harm Reduction Network. "Whatever that is, but, if we’re not minimizing the risk and the harm to one’s health then how are we properly, effectively helping people?”

“It doesn't limit the penalties to these mass producers that are putting this in the drug supply,” said Carla Sofronski, executive director of the Pennsylvania Harm Reduction Network. “We know that typically when law enforcement cannot capture their target points, they go for the low-level dealers who typically are people who suffer with a substance-use disorder.”

PA Harm Reduction Networks Executive Director Carla Sofronski says seeing through the lens of law enforcement instead of public health increases criminal penalties for users.

“For a public health crisis, we need a public health approach that is led by leaders in science and the medical community,” said Sofronski.