STATE SENATE PASSES METH PENALTY BILL

The State Senate unanimously passed legislation co-sponsored by State
Senator Jerry Cooper (D-Morrison) and State Rep. Judd Matheny(R-Tullahoma)
that would increase penalties for individuals found in possession of
methampethamine.

"Meth is a dangerous drug that is seriously impacting our area," Cooper
said. "It's time to get serious about combating this horrible drug. I'm
pleased to see that we're going to increase the punishment for meth
offenders."

The legislation will increase penalties for meth possession to bring them in
line with penalties for cocaine and crack cocaine. Governor Bredesen has
already established a task force to address meth abuse in Tennessee. "The
problem with meth is getting out of control," Cooper said. "These stricter
penalties should help us get a handle on meth and work to get it under
control. We need to remember that stricter penalties are only one step in
the process of controlling this drug. I'm proud to have co-sponsored this
bill with Rep. Matheny, and I look forward to hearing the recommendations of
the task force.

"We simply cannot continue to take meth enforcement lightly. This bill shows
we're getting serious."