(Providence, RI) -- Rhode Island is becoming the first U.S. state to authorize a pilot program for so-called "harm reduction centers" that give drug users a safe place to consume pre-obtained substances. Governor Dan McKee signed the legislation on Wednesday. Bill sponsor, state Representative John G. Edwards, says the centers reduce the chance of overdose and serve as a gateway to treatment and rehab. Under the new law, the facilities would require the approval of the local city or town council to operate.
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