New Denver DA signals skepticism over needle exchange expansion

What he's saying: "We have three needle-exchange programs up and running, and it feels like it's working OK — and I'm not sure there needs to be an expansion," he told Axios Denver.

• Walsh, who was sworn in Tuesday, acknowledged the value of syringe access programs from a public health perspective, recognizing their role in reducing harm and preventing disease transmission.
• But "whether all limits on those programs should be eliminated, that's a very different question," he cautioned.

The intrigue: Walsh ran as the more progressive Democratic DA candidate last year and was the only one on the campaign trail to support supervised drug-use sites.

• His more cautious position on needle exchanges marks a shift toward the center.

Catch up quick: Denver City Council's needle exchange measure removes a three-limit cap and lifts the 1,000-foot distance restriction from schools and daycares.

• Advocates argue the programs help reduce fatal overdoses and curb the spread of diseases like hepatitis C and HIV.

What we're watching: Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, whose approval is required for the measure to take effect, appears aligned with Walsh's wariness.

• His office said the city already has "an adequate supply of needle exchange programs to meet current demands."

What's next: Johnston will "evaluate" the measure, and a decision is expected in the coming days.