STATE'S METHADONE CLINICS ARE DUE FOR SOME SCRUTINY

I feel Gov. W. Mitt Romney should investigate the state-run methadone
clinics for a way to save money.

These programs do not work, because the people end up on a lifetime
maintenance program instead of getting detoxed.

The state pays some of these people 30-something dollars apiece every month
just to get to the clinic, and then gives them their methadone cocktail
every day, which must cost the state quite a bit.

I feel the state should limit the time for a person to detox to 30 or 60
days, after which the person should be liable for the cost.

If the person needs lifetime maintenance, he or she should pay for it. Take
the money from their welfare benefits or withhold their state tax refund.

Give these people a reason to detox and get on with their lives, and in the
process save the state millions.

PAUL LAFRENAYE

Chicopee