Methamphetamine use is a growing epidemic that is destroying lives and hurting families all across the country. The state of Tennessee is experiencing a sharp increase in the number and seizure of methamphetamine labs. In 1998, Tennessee law enforcement agencies seized 42 labs, and last year that number rose to 116. This year 137 labs have already been put out of commission. We are gaining ground in the war on drugs.

For the last three years I have served on the Speaker's Task Force fighting illegal drugs and worked to beef up the war on illegal methamphetamine production in East Tennessee. I am committed to giving local law enforcement agencies the resources they need to fight this growing trend, and I support increased penalties for folks who are involved with methamphetamine production or use.

I am dedicated to helping wipe out methamphetamine use in Tennessee and all over this great country of ours.