Pubdate: Wed, 24 Jan 2001
Source: Oklahoman, The (OK)
Copyright: 2001 The Oklahoma Publishing Co.
Contact:  P.O. Box 25125, Oklahoma City, OK 73125
Feedback: http://www.oklahoman.com/?ed-writeus
Website: http://www.oklahoman.com/
Forum: http://www.oklahoman.com/forums/
Author: Phil Bacharack
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/meth.htm (Methamphetamine)

EFFORTS IGNORED

TO THE EDITOR:

Former Panama Mayor Bill Mason ("Your Views," Jan. 9) criticized Gov. 
Keating for Oklahoma's continuing methamphetamine problem. He ignored the 
efforts Keating has made to curb this drug epidemic. The methamphetamine 
summit convened by the governor in late 1999 resulted in a number of 
proposals that have met varying degrees of success.

For example, Keating last year advocated several measures aimed at stemming 
the meth trade, including making drug manufacturing one of the so-called 
"deadly sins" to ensure that those convicted of such crimes serve at least 
85 percent of their sentence. Another piece of would-be legislation sought 
to deny bond for those charged with making meth. Unfortunately the 
Legislature failed to approve either bill. On a more successful note, the 
governor signed a law stiffening penalties for the theft of anhydrous 
ammonia, a fertilizer often used to "cook" meth.

On other fronts, Keating led the way in securing additional federal funds 
for the hazardous chemical disposal of seized methamphetamine labs. This 
was no small feat. Such labs are a public menace, a wasteland of toxic and 
explosive materials. The Keating administration is also addressing 
substance abuse treatment for nonviolent, non- habitual drug offenders. The 
governor has been a strong proponent of expanding the use of drug courts 
and community sentencing, and he plans to focus on these items during the 
upcoming legislative session.

Methamphetamine abuse, however, is not a problem that only government must 
confront. This is a societal blot that impacts us all; it requires a 
comprehensive solution that includes everything from prevention education 
to proper treatment, from tough law enforcement to vigilant friends and 
neighbors. Keating is committed to tackling the proliferation of meth, but 
an effective strategy also needs the commitment of many, many others.

Phil Bacharach, deputy press secretary, office of the governor
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