Methamphetamine Abuse and Prevention

The use and trafficking of illegal drugs is a continually growing dilemma. Illegal drugs are a threat to the health and safety of our community. The war on drugs should continue to be a high priority. Use of illegal drugs hurts our society in many ways. I will continue to actively support efforts that tackle the drug trade from both a supply and demand standpoint. Our best efforts at limiting the production of illegal drugs, both in our own nation and others, will not be successful until we also eliminate the demand for them. Only after we break the cycle of dependency will we make strides in rescuing our country from this dangerous problem.

Methamphetamine abuse is a growing problem facing our nation today. The drug is extremely addictive and dangerous. As we learn more about this terrifying drug, we are discovering that traditional drug rehabilitation is ineffective. Meth requires much longer and more involved treatment.

Law enforcement, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare and state, county and local agencies are working around the clock to fight this monster of a drug. In the past five years, many home labs have been seized. Meth contamination affects innocent children and communities through second hand smoke, even through residue on furniture and rugs. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare operates treatment programs around the state. Concerned individuals and organizations are forming local citizen task forces to meet the specific needs of their community.

Unfortunately, high seizure rates have sparked an increase in imported, concentrated meth from "superlabs", predominantly in Mexico. It reaches larger cities and is distributed to smaller communities around the state. This must be dealt with at all levels: federal, state and local.

The federal government is taking many steps to combat this meth epidemic. Over their lifetime, a meth user will likely incur long-term mental and physical health costs, incarceration and rehabilitation costs that will be borne by society. It only makes sense to be proactive in this fight. The key is early intervention and strong penalties for breaking the law. To get more information, contact your local government officials or any of my offices.

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