Pubdate: Fri, 22 Apr 2005
Source: Hickory Daily Record (NC)
Copyright: 2005 Hickory Daily Record
Contact:  http://www.hickoryrecord.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1109
Author: Josh Yoder
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/meth.htm (Methamphetamine)

MCHENRY CRACKS DOWN ON METHAMPHETAMINE PRODUCTION

New Bill Would Give Stiffer Penalties To Those Convicted

HICKORY -- U.S. Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., has introduced legislation to 
fight the growing problem of methamphetamine production.

The bill, nicknamed "The Protecting Children from Drugs Act of 2005," would 
double the maximum prison time from 10 to 20 years for those convicted of 
producing or trafficking methamphetamines in the presence of children.

Methamphetamine is a highly addictive stimulant easily made from common 
household products.

The drug is made in makeshift labs that can be set up in the average 
kitchen. The chemicals used in the process can contaminate homes and cause 
explosions and health problems.

In February, McHenry met in Lenoir with area sheriffs and local, state and 
federal narcotics officers to discuss solutions to the meth epidemic. In a 
news release Thursday, the freshman 10th District congressman said the new 
bill is a common-sense approach advocated by many narcotics officers.

"First and foremost, we must protect our children from illegal drugs," 
McHenry said.

The bill was co-sponsored by 12 members of Congress and has been put before 
the Energy and Commerce and House Judiciary committees, said Jonathan 
Collegio, communications director for McHenry's office.
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