Pubdate: Sat, 19 Mar 2016
Source: Rome News-Tribune (GA)
Copyright: 2016 Rome News-Tribune
Contact:  http://www.romenews-tribune.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1716

BILL TO HALT NEW TREATMENT CENTERS

CHICKAMAUGA - Legislation placing a temporary moratorium on new 
narcotic treatment centers passed the Georgia House of 
Representatives, 169-0, and awaits the signature of Gov. Nathan Deal.

The legislation was filed by Sen. Jeff Mullis, R-Chickamauga, out of 
concern over the growing number of centers alongside an increase in 
heroin addiction.

Georgia is ranked third nationally in the number of narcotic 
treatment centers, with 63 currently operating within the state. 
Mullis said heroin use and overdoses in Georgia have skyrocketed in 
the last five years, a stark contradiction of the large number of 
treatment centers aimed at reducing addiction rates.

Senate Bill 402 halts new licensing until June 30, 2017. It also 
creates a state commission to study the licensure process as well as 
the density of existing narcotic treatment centers within the state.

 From catoosawalkernews.com
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