SAN FRANCISCO, California: San Francisco is taking steps to change how it handles drug use. After Some people say focusing on quitting drugs can push away those who aren't ready to stop, while  others believe the city has gone too far in allowing drug use and needs a stricter approach to end addiction.seeing many overdose deaths and people using fentanyl openly on sidewalks, city leaders are pushing for a new "recovery first" policy.

This plan focuses on helping people stop using illegal drugs completely rather than just making drug use safer.

The idea has sparked a considerable debate. Some people say focusing on quitting drugs can push away those who aren't ready to stop. Others believe the city has gone too far in allowing drug use and needs a stricter approach to end addiction.

Supervisor Matt Dorsey, who used to struggle with drugs and alcohol himself, supports the plan. He made changes to make it clear that services like giving clean supplies and offering help will still be available, even to those still using drugs.

Still, many people shared strong opinions during a public meeting, both for and against the proposal.

One speaker, Patt Denning, said harm reduction — helping people use drugs more safely — saves lives. She warned that forcing people to quit or kicking them out of programs if they don't stop can be deadly.

But Brendan Harris, clean for six years, said there needs to be a clear path to recovery. "We can't just keep making drug use easier," he said.

In the past, San Francisco's health department even told drug users to use it with friends to help prevent overdose deaths. Critics said that sent the wrong message.

Mayor Daniel Lurie, who started his term in January, has promised to deal with the city's fentanyl problem. Over 600 people died from overdoses last year. He told nonprofits that they must offer help like treatment or counseling before handing out things like foil or pipes. They also can't give those items out in parks or on sidewalks anymore.

The updated proposal says the primary goal should be long-term recovery from drug addiction, using proven treatments and complete support services. Recovery is defined as someone trying to make positive life changes and choosing a healthier lifestyle.

Dorsey said it shouldn't be controversial to hope for a life without drug use. Recovery could include medication like methadone. He said people often only notice the free supplies being handed out, not the full range of help the city offers.

"We are losing the message of harm reduction when people think that's all we are doing," he said.

The San Francisco Marin Medical Society helped suggest the changes to the proposal.

The city's Board of Supervisors will vote on the plan next month. Since most members already support it, it is expected to pass.