Pubdate: Mon, 14 May 2007
Source: Sioux City Journal (IA)
Copyright: 2007 Sioux City Journal
Contact:  http://www.siouxcityjournal.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/945
Author: Associated Press
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/meth.htm (Methamphetamine)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/rehab.htm (Treatment)

SEN. TOM HARKIN SPEAKS ABOUT TREATMENT, PREVENTION OF METH

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa  -- Sen. Tom Harkin, D-Iowa, who introduced the 
Methamphetamine Abuse Treatment and Prevention Act in the U.S. Senate 
this week, spoke with law enforcement and drug treatment 
professionals in Cedar Rapids and Des Moines Saturday about his ideas 
for tackling methamphetamine abuse.

The idea behind Harkin's bill is that every dollar spent on treatment 
and prevention of meth abuse will ultimately lead to a $7 savings. 
His goal is to increase family and jail-based treatment and break 
down barriers to getting people help.

"With proper treatment, meth addicts can recover and go on to lead 
productive lives," Harkin said to a group of around 15 drug treatment 
and law enforcement officials.

Harkin said that the problem with current treatment programs is that 
individuals often spend less than a month there, when four to six 
months minimum is necessary.

Ideas were discussed to help treated users avoid a relapse, including 
making sure that they receive professional training.
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MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman