News Releases for May 2005
May 2, 2005
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Hoeven Signs Legislation For Meth Treatment Pilot Program In Jamestown
JAMESTOWN, N.D. - Gov. John Hoeven today signed SB 2373, which establishes a pilot program to treat and rehabilitate individuals who are chemically dependent on methamphetamine or other controlled substances. The Governor and Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem will also discuss other legislation signed into law this session to combat substance abuse.
Joining Hoeven for the signing were Stenehjem, Kerry Wicks, program director of addiction services at the North Dakota State Hospital, Sens. Larry Robinson, Richard Brown, Stan Lyson, April Fairfield, and Dave Nething, and Reps. Duane DeKrey, Joe Kroeber, Darrell Nottestad, Craig Headland, Chet Pollert and Lyle Hanson.
“Meeting the challenge of drug addiction in our state requires a three prong approach - prevention, law enforcement and treatment,” Hoeven said. “If we treat individuals with substance abuse problems early, intensely and for an adequate period of time, we may be able to salvage lives and protect our society from the social consequences of drug abuse.”
Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem said, “This legislation will expand treatment options for addicts, and is part of a comprehensive package of legislation passed this session. These include restrictions on the purchase of cold medicines necessary to manufacture meth, additional sentencing options for courts, and curtailing drug use by defendants released on bail awaiting trial on drug charges.”
The $1.3 million pilot program Hoeven signed into law is designed to provide chemically dependent adults with intensive therapy and an opportunity to recover their lives. The facility will provide up to 20 beds at the state hospital or at a private treatment facility administered by the North Dakota Department of Human Services.
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