ADMINISTRATION PROPOSES ANTI-DRUG LEGISLATION

The administration will propose new programs for substance abuse treatment,
prevention and law enforcement at the Legislature opening Jan. 19.

The proposals are in addition to the $46.3 million the administration has
requested in its biennium budget for fiscal 2006 and 2007.

The budget calls for $19.8 million each year for various drug treatment and
prevention programs. The administration also added $2 million each year for
substance abuse prevention programs, more than $1 million each year for
adolescent residential treatment and school-based counseling and treatment
programs and more than $500,000 per year for the Drug Nuisance Abatement Unit.

The administration's proposals to control drug abuse includes the following
items: Shut down illegal drug houses: protects the identity of neighbors
who report drug houses and allows the suspension or revocation of business,
professional or liquor licenses. Establishes a rapid response unit to
respond to community complaints of suspected illegal drug activity.

Control the sale of drugs and equipment used to make illegal drugs: limits
the retail sale of over-the-counter drugs that can be used to manufacture
crystal methamphetamine or "ice." Another proposal would give law
enforcement greater authority to take action against individuals who sell
or distribute equipment, products, materials and drug paraphernalia used to
grow, manufacture or ingest illegal substances.

Toughen sentencing laws -- mandatory sentencing: allows a mandatory
sentence of 30 years to life for habitual violent criminals and requires
incarceration for felons convicted of a Class A drug offense and repeat
drug offenders.

Requires jail time for buying liquor for minors: requires a mandatory jail
sentence for any adult who buys liquor for a minor.