"Encouraging the establishment of a methamphetamine watch program. "

Throughout the past decade there have been a number of public awareness programs, which have educated communities about the dangers of alcohol and drugs. "Meth watch" is a voluntary program started in Kansas as a public/private partnership in 2001. Meth watch educates communities about the perils of methamphetamine. Today, eleven states have implemented a meth watch program. Although a relatively new campaign, since its implementation, states have reported reductions in the number of methamphetamine laboratories, and have seen a unification of grant programs that fund the education of communities; particularly parents, teachers, and others that work with youth.

The meth watch program engages retailers, law enforcement officials, schools, state and local agencies, and other key partners in reducing the diversion of precursor products for the manufacturing of methamphetamine, and increasing awareness about methamphetamine's dangers. The program is also instrumental in educating students and teachers in our schools and communities.

House Concurrent Resolution No. 4 urges the Department of Health and Social Services to take the lead in establishing a meth watch program in Alaska, by applying for available grants, and encouraging and assisting communities to apply for funding from both government and private sources.

Bill Version: 24-LS0629-A

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