DRUG CZAR CAN HOLD EDUCATION POST, TOO

JACKSON - Frank Melton, a longtime television executive recently named head
of Mississippi's Bureau of Narcotics, says he'll also remain a member of
the state Board of Education.

Mississippi Ethics Commission officials say there's no conflict of interest
or violation of state ethics laws for Melton to serve with both state agencies.

"I don't see a prohibition," said Ethics Commission Director Scott Rankin.

On Thursday, Melton told fellow education board members that safe schools
and safe neighborhoods are a priority in his new drug enforcement role.

Melton has been a member of the nine-member state board that oversees
policy for the state's 496,000 schoolchildren and 149 districts since he
was appointed by Lt. Gov. Eddie Briggs in 1992.

Lt. Gov. Amy Tuck reappointed him earlier this year, and he was confirmed
by the Senate.