Doris Matsui: “In recent years, Sacramento County has been increasingly troubled by the prevalence of the drug methamphetamine. Last…”

“In recent years, Sacramento County has been increasingly troubled by the prevalence of the drug methamphetamine. Last year, the Sacramento Sheriff's Department made 1,117 arrests for methamphetamine charges, a number that greatly exceeded the amount of arrests for cocaine, marijuana, and heroin combined. The Sheriff's Department also discovered and dismantled seven methamphetamine labs, a significant accomplishment but one that drained the county government of approximately $40,000 of its valuable resources. This year, the Sacramento Sheriff's Department conducted an investigation that led to the arrest of four individuals and the seizure of 80 pounds of methamphetamine, valued at $2.9 million. Although law enforcement officials have made great progress, there is much more work to be done. I am proud to support the Comprehensive Methamphetamine Control Act of 1996, which takes a big step in addressing this very serious problem. In light of the public health, safety, and law enforcement challenges posed by methamphetamine in California and elsewhere in the United States, this bill represents an effective means of attacking its production, distribution and use. It is my hope that we will soon rid Sacramento County and the rest of the country of the terrible consequences of this dangerous drug.”