Issue Position: Methamphetamine

Issue Position

Issue Position: Methamphetamine

As one of the hotbeds of the methamphetamine epidemic, Oregon understands all too well the destruction that meth causes. To help folks on the frontlines in this fight, Senator Wyden has made addressing this epidemic one of his legislative priorities. During the 109th Congress, Senator Wyden cosponsored the Combat Meth Act, which passed by both houses of Congress, and signed into law by the President on March 9, 2006. This legislation funds methamphetamine enforcement, treatment, research, awareness and education. It also restricts over-the-counter access to methamphetamine ingredients without preempting stronger state meth laws like Oregon's. To address the international meth trade, this legislation helps the government to crack down on foreign flows into the United States, including the power to withhold foreign aid to countries that refuse to cooperate in this fight.

As a member of the Budget Committee, Senator Wyden will fight the Administration's proposed funding cuts for state and local law enforcement programs like COPS, HIDTA and the Byrne grant program. Senator Wyden will oppose these cuts because he understands that without this funding it will be even tougher for law enforcement to cut off the meth supply chain. It will also apply more pressure on the already overstretched communities dealing with the problems created by this terrible drug.

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