The state Assembly has approved legislation that attempts to reduce the spread of AIDS and other diseases by curbing needle sharing.

The measure by state Senator John Vasconcellos of Santa Clara would allow pharmacies to sell up to 30 hypodermic needles to an adult without a prescription. It´s aimed at reducing the sharing of needles by drug addicts, which contributes to the spread of AIDS, hepatitis C and other blood-borne diseases.

Yesterday´s 41-to-31 vote sent the measure back to the Senate for consideration of Assembly amendments.