Paul Coverdell: “today I join Senator Coats and Senator McCain in submitting a Senate Resolution renouncing the recent proposal by the…”

“today I join Senator Coats and Senator McCain in submitting a Senate Resolution renouncing the recent proposal by the Administration to expand methadone maintenance programs. Methadone is a so-called ``treatment'' for heroin addiction. Heroin is a highly addictive opiate which leads its users down a path of crime and self-destruction, and the prescription of methadone is simply a means to sustain addiction. My colleagues and I do realize the need for help, but do not believe the answer is exchanging one addiction for another. The Administration has failed to consult Congress of its plan to increase the number of methadone maintenance programs and to loosen regulations of licensed methadone dispensers. We frown upon the idea of paying for drug addiction. Our Resolution states the need for Congressional hearings in order to compare the Administration's proposal with alternative drug-free treatment programs. Alternatives such as the Ready, Willing and Able program have been extremely successful in helping Americans who are addicted to drugs, homeless, or in many cases, both. This program is based on community. It provides wages earned from community based jobs in exchange for room, board and positive reinforcement in a drug-free environment. I believe comprehensive treatment programs such as this are a positive step in our war against drugs.”