1.   The Legislature finds and declares that:

   a.   The use of conventional needles results in increased risk of HIV infection and hepatitis B and C to health care workers;

   b.   Each year, from 150 to 200 health care workers die and many suffer chronic and debilitating diseases due to needle stick injuries;

   c.   Equipment exists to prevent most injuries that result from needle stick injuries but overall concern with cutting health care costs has impeded the widespread use of advanced, safer technology; and

   d.   Newer, safer needle technology should be adopted in health care facilities.

   L.1999,c.311,s.1.