Regarding your "Drugs and student aid" item (April 4 Under the Dome): The drug conviction provision disqualifying a student for federal financial aid applies only to students who were convicted for the sale or possession of a controlled substance that occurred while the student was enrolled in postsecondary education and receiving Title IV student aid. Participation in an eligible rehabilitation program enables a student to re-establish eligibility for such aid. The article insinuates that I am personally "considering repealing the aid ban as part of this year's reauthorization of the [higher education] act," which is simply not true. As a member of the House Education and Labor Committee, I will be involved in the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act. However, the committee has not had any discussion on the drug conviction issue. [continues 84 words]
Editor: I am very concerned about the growth of meth labs in our area. Methamphetamine is a highly addictive drug that affects the central nervous system and often results in stroke or death. The drug is often made in secret laboratories with relatively inexpensive over-the-counter ingredients. Thus, it has the potential for widespread abuse. I have consulted with Watauga County Sheriff Mark Shook about the matter, attended a workshop on meth labs and read legislation from other states in order to be better prepared to help solve the problem. [continues 115 words]
