Pubdate: Thu, 26 May 2005
Source: Tennessean, The (TN)
Copyright: 2005 The Tennessean
Contact:  http://www.tennessean.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/447
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/meth.htm (Methamphetamine)

FINE-TUNE FIGHT AGAINST METH

State and federal authorities must continue to track and address the
scourge of methamphetamine, including developing strategies to fight
the drug in all its various forms.

The most recent development on the meth scene nationally is the
growing impact of "ice," a purer, more potent form of methamphetamine,
which is being transported into areas where meth use has been
prominent. Tennessee has ranked among the busiest states in the
country in the number of meth incidents. It's a bad sign that an even
stronger form of the drug is on the move.

Tennessee has also decided to aggressively attack its meth problem by
raising awareness and enacting tough new laws aimed at preventing meth
labs from popping up. Foremost among those efforts is the attempt to
control the sale of household medicines used to make the drug. Such
substances have been easily obtained and purchased in mass quantities
in the past.

Nationally, authorities say one reason stronger forms of meth are
being transported is that laws are making it difficult to buy the
ingredients necessary to cook the stimulant. That's a sign that the
strategy of restricting sales can be effective, but it also heightens
the alarm that newer, more potent forms of the drug are making inroads.

This state should continue to stay on top of the drug's use and
trafficking. That means educating the public about the danger of the
drug and the need to constantly address the threat.

The presence of meth in a household can be devastating. Public safety
demands that the drug's path be closely followed and that people be
taught from early ages to avoid any involvement with the substance.
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MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin