STATE GETTING $17.8M TO HELP METH ADDICTS

NASHVILLE - Tennessee will receive $17.8 million in federal funds
to expand access to drug abuse treatment, especially for those
addicted to the illegal stimulant methamphetamine, Gov. Phil Bredesen
said Wednesday. "Our state is struggling with a serious substance
abuse problem," Bredesen said. "This federal funding will provide
additional resources that will be critical in combating meth and drug
abuse in general." The money will come from the U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services to expand the state's network of licensed
alcohol and drug treatment providers. Tennessee is one of 14 states to
be awarded funds in the latest round of the "Access to Recovery" grants.

During the next three years, the state Department of Health will
receive about $5.9 million a year for the project.

Methamphetamine, which affects the central nervous system, is produced
in clandestine laboratories across Tennessee using relatively
inexpensive over-the-counter ingredients.

The drug has been on the rise in recent years. The U.S. Drug
Enforcement Administration estimates that Tennessee accounts for 75
percent of meth lab seizures in the Southeast.

Clients will be screened through drug courts, local health departments
and authorized treatment providers. Participants must submit to random
drug and alcohol screens.

A portion of the funding will go to rural communities, some of which
are hard hit by meth and other drugs and offer limited access to
treatment.