Lincoln Obtains Funding to Fight Meth Epidemic

Lincoln Obtains Funding to Fight Meth Epidemic

U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln (D-Ark.) today helped add crucial funding to the federal budget to combat the nation's growing methamphetamine epidemic.

"It is essential that law enforcement officials have the resources they need to fight the methamphetamine epidemic that's causing harm to our communities, particularly those in rural America," Lincoln said. "I'm pleased that my colleagues agree with me and have made additional meth funding a national priority in this budget."

During debate on the federal budget, Lincoln cosponsored an amendment to provide $99 million to the COPS (Community Oriented Policing Services) Meth Hot Spots Program for fiscal year 2008. The legislation adds $29 million to the program above the $70 million that was included in the budget resolution being considered on the Senate floor. Lincoln's amendment was accepted by unanimous consent in the Senate Friday.

Lincoln has been a long-time advocate of the COPS Hot Spots initiative. During last year's budget debate, Lincoln successfully restored full funding to the program after it was eliminated in the President's budget.

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