Many who work on the frontlines of the overdose crisis want to see more emphasis on reducing the risk of illness and death from substance use. But in some communities, they face opposition.

Indiana is directing nearly $2 million towards an effort to reach Hoosiers most at-risk of drug overdoses.

The harm reduction initiative from Damien Center is in partnership with the Marion County Public Health Department.

About 350 people from around the state attended the Public Health Conference lead by Indiana University's Addictions Crisis Grand Challenge.

Indiana legalized syringe exchange programs in 2015, but requires county governments to re-approve them every two years.