Pubdate: Mon, 02 Feb 2004
Source: Sun News (Myrtle Beach, SC)
Copyright: 2004 Sun Publishing Co.
Contact:  http://www.myrtlebeachonline.com/mld/sunnews/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/987
Note: apparent 150 word limit on LTEs
Author: Justin Bergman, The Associated Press
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?136 (Methadone)

LEGISLATION PUSHES FOR METHADONE CLINIC RULES

RICHMOND (AP)- As communities in western Virginia struggle to cope with the 
drug abuse wrought by OxyContin, legislation introduced at the General 
Assembly could severely restrict where certain treatment clinics are 
allowed to be located.

Two bills face a final vote in the Senate this week. One would prohibit any 
methadone clinic within half a mile of a school or day-care center, and 
another would require the state to notify localities when a methadone 
clinic is proposed in their area.

Both bills aim to protect communities from the ill effects some associate 
with methadone clinics: drug dealing and increased crime. Advocates say 
localities are often unaware that privately run clinics have even applied 
for a license until it's too late to oppose the location.

"Methadone treatment is for the most severe addictions, and what I've heard 
a lot of my citizens say, they recognize the need for treatment, but in the 
right setting," said Sen. William C. Wampler, R-Bristol, a co-sponsor of 
the legislation along with Sen. J. Brandon Bell, R-Roanoke County.

Western Virginia already has three methadone clinics - in Galax, Tazewell 
County and Charlottesville - that largely treat addicts of the prescription 
painkiller OxyContin.

Police have not encountered serious crime around the clinics in Galax and 
Tazewell County.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom