California Bill Burdens People with Diabetes on Insulin - #OpposeAB1893

On April 29, the California State Assembly is set to consider bill AB-1893, which, if approved, would require all sharps to be sold with a waste container. This would immediately put an undue burden on people with diabetes to buy a sharps container whether the necessary syringes, needles, or lancets are purchased for everyday diabetes care. The costs of living with a chronic disease are already extremely high, and requiring the purchase of a sharps container would only be inappropriate and unjust. Although there is not enough data on how people with diabetes dispose of sharps, we have never heard of incorrect disposal as a problem in the diabetes community, and there is certainly not enough information to pass legislation. The bill also ignores the alternative of promoting more cost-effective and convenient options for sharps disposal. These options – which can be equally, if not more effective than a dedicated container – include empty detergent containers, old bleach containers, and tools that can clip the sharps from the needle. These options are all supported by the FDA, EPA, and state and local health agencies. Ultimately, we at diaTribe believe that sharps disposal is an issue of providing patients with more support and education, and not one of burdening them with increased costs and regulations associated with diabetes. After hearing about this bill, members of the diabetes advocacy community immediately came together to oppose the legislation and give voice to people with diabetes in California. Please click here to learn more and to read our letter opposing the bill. –NL