For Release: Thursday, March 9, 2006
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

NATIONAL DRUG STRATEGY TO EMPHASIZE METHAMPHETAMINE

Washington - A bill to reauthorize the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ODCP) passed by the House of Representatives today contains important provisions to focus federal efforts on combating methamphetamine use.  Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL), a former law enforcement official, supported the bill and praised the attention on fighting meth. 

"Methamphetamine use is a national problem, both in rural and urban areas, and demands a wide-ranging approach to slow it down.  The federal role has not been as coordinated as it should be, and I believe the provisions in this legislation address that fact.  It will take continued cooperation among federal, state and local authorities to make significant progress in this effort."

The bill, H.R. 2829, authorizes $15 million annually to combat meth trafficking in high-intensity drug trafficking areas.  In addition, it would create a National Methamphetamine Information Clearinghouse to promote information-sharing regarding law enforcement, treatment, environmental concerns and social services relating to meth abuse.  The bill would also require the ODCP to submit to the Congress a comprehensive strategy to address the increased threat of meth, including precursor chemical controls, demand reduction, treatment efforts and efforts to prevent the international diversion of precursor chemicals. 

Costello is a member of the Congressional Methamphetamine Caucus and has directed federal resources to jurisdictions in the 12th Congressional District to specifically fight the use and spread of meth.  He has also advocated against budget cuts to important law enforcement programs, such as the COPS program and the Byrne Grant Program.

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