Rick Larsen: “today I stand in recognition of National Drug Court Month and the important work done by drug courts in my district and…”

“today I stand in recognition of National Drug Court Month and the important work done by drug courts in my district and around the country. Drug courts combine intense judicial supervision and comprehensive treatment in community-wide approaches to rehabilitation. They bring together teams of judges, attorneys, treatment providers, child advocates and law enforcement officers. Their tireless work gives nonviolent offenders a second chance to get clean and take back their lives. In my district, drug court programs have enhanced public safety, saved taxpayer dollars and, most importantly, saved lives. Since 1999, the Snohomish County Drug Court in Everett, Washington, has graduated over 300 participants, of whom 94 percent have remained clean. Drug courts are widely recognized as the most effective solution for reducing crime and recidivism among drug-addicted offenders. They come at a fraction of the cost of standard incarceration, and they work. It is our responsibility at the Federal level to provide the funds necessary to ensure that their services are available to people that need them. So congratulations to dedicated drug court professionals and graduates from Washington State and around the country on a job well done. Thank you for your hard work and your dedication.”