Thomas Foley: “let me thank Chairman Souder and Mr. Cummings, and let me draw your attention to a specific section of the bill that I…”

“let me thank Chairman Souder and Mr. Cummings, and let me draw your attention to a specific section of the bill that I think is troubling not only to most Members of Congress but law enforcement throughout our country, and that is the increasing use and production of methamphetamines. This is a uniquely dangerous drug that is extremely addictive and ruins its victims. ``Methamphetamine suddenly becomes this thing in their life that they cannot do without,'' stated Attorney General Alberto Gonzales. ``In terms of damage to children and to our society, meth is now the most dangerous drug in America.'' Consider the following facts: meth is the number one drug problem for the majority of county law enforcement agencies. According to the National Association of Counties, 58 percent of counties report that meth has become their top anti-drug priority for law enforcement. In many areas, meth cases are swamping hospital emergency rooms. In one NACO survey, 47 percent of hospitals said meth is the top illicit drug involved in patient presentation. The great majority of these patients are uninsured, placing a tremendous added burden on already strained emergency rooms. As the meth epidemic spreads, other crimes are bred. Wherever meth gains a foothold, substantial increases in property crime are seen as addicts desperately seek cash to fund their addiction. In affected areas, a 62 percent increase in domestic violence due to meth has been reported.…”