PROPOSED LAW IS STEP IN RIGHT DIRECTION TO STOP METH

Many people purchase the over-the-counter medications containing
pseudoephedrine for legitimate reasons. The decongestant can help those
with colds or allergies. Unfortunately, the medicine is also a favorite
among those with more sinister purposes - it's a key ingredient in making
methamphetamine.

Missouri has battled a meth problem for some time and it's a difficult
fight. The common ingredients can be cooked to create a highly addictive
drug, which has been the bane of law enforcement agencies across the
country and right here in our own community.

Last year, 2,725 meth labs were seized in Missouri, nearly one out of every
five labs found in the country, according to the Associated Press. The bill
approved last week by Missouri lawmakers requires medicines with
pseudoephedrine as the sole active ingredient to be kept behind the
counter, within 10 feet of a cashier or tagged with electronic anti-theft
devices. Another part of the bill places limits on the quantity that can be
purchased. With pseudoephedrine as the sole active ingredient a maximum of
two packages or 6 grams cold be purchased at one time. For medicines with
pseudoephedrine and other active ingredients, a maximum purchase would be
three packages or 9 grams.

This proposal will not eliminate the meth problem. However, it will make it
a little more difficult for those wanting the medicine for illicit
purposes, yet keeping it available for those who truly need it.

We encourage Holden to sign the bill. However, we also challenge our
lawmkers and law enforcement officials to continue to work together to find
methods to eliminate this problem from our society.