Friday, May 11, 2007
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Releases Latest Meth Numbers, Supports New Monitoring System to Stop Meth Cooks
JEFFERSON CITY– Gov. Matt Blunt is pleased to report the continuing positive results of Missouri's anti-meth legislation signed into law in 2005 and encourages the General Assembly to support a new monitoring system to help in Missouri's fight against meth.
"We are making significant progress in our efforts to combat the dangers of meth but more must be done to eliminate the scourge of methamphetamine from our state," Blunt said. "I appreciate Senator Champion's leadership in sponsoring legislation that will provide Missouri with enhanced tools to continue our fight against meth."
The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) reported there were 1,284 meth incidents in 2006 - 968 fewer incidents compared to 2005. As of April of this year MSHP has reported 250 meth incidents. Meth incidents include chemical, equipment and glassware seizures, and dumpsites that have been identified by the MSHP.
The governor also announced his support of Senate Bill 85, sponsored by Sen. Norma Champion. The legislation is Missouri's next step in the ongoing efforts to eliminate this dangerous epidemic. Senate Bill 85 would establish a real-time reporting system for pseudoephedrine products, establish a Prescription Monitoring Act to be administered by the Department of Health and Senior Services, brings Missouri into federal compliance with The Combat Meth Act, and would provide annual updates to the controlled substance list.