Bangor's syringe disposal program is at a standstill due to a funding shortfall. The program, proposed by Rep. Ambureen Rana, aims to reduce needle litter and public safety concerns in Maine's communities. Despite passing in January, the program's funding was slashed by nearly $240,000, leaving it with just $500. Rana expressed disappointment, stating that the program would have made a significant difference in her community. Without funding, the grant program is at a standstill, and residents in communities across Maine are increasingly concerned about discarded needles and public safety. Courtney Gary-Allen, executive director of Maine Recovery Access Project, emphasized the need for stronger syringe disposal efforts across Maine. The Augusta nonprofit has distributed hundreds of disposal boxes and gathers volunteers for regular community cleanups. Gary-Allen stated that communities could use every single dollar to go out and do community cleanups. The disposal waste grant program is open to municipalities, community organizations, and syringe services providers. In Penobscot County, where an ongoing HIV outbreak has grown to 44 cases, syringe services are a proven tool to prevent the spread of HIV and hepatitis C. Lawmakers tapped the Maine CDC to run the program, which had requested roughly $120,000 a year.