CAPITOL TAKES STEPS TO TACKLE DRUG PROBLEMS

BISMARCK, N.D. - The methamphetamine drug problem in North Dakota needs a
fiercer attack that combines a few new laws, more treatment of addicts and
better education, the new attorney general said.

Wayne Stenehjem, surrounded by about 30 legislators, police, sheriffs,
prosecutors and drug agents, announced his drug enforcement initiative
Tuesday. He said many of those in the room helped him draft the plan.

"There is no magic fix," he said, "But an ongoing effort is required."

Stenehjem first proposed such a plan during his election campaign last year.

He said most of what he wants to do involves no new legislation, but he is
seeking some changes in law.

Legislators have introduced two bills and two study resolutions

Proposed legislation would make drug paraphernalia easier to prosecute and
require juvenile drug offenders' school principals to be notified, and for
the juveniles to be ordered to get an evaluation.

Two proposed legislative studies would look at putting local police and
sheriffs' deputies into the state retirement plan, and explore a rewrite of
the civil commitment laws relating to drug addiction.

The study of police retirement benefits is a way to try to retain
experienced, qualified police. Many are leaving to take jobs in other
states with higher pay or better benefits, Stenehjem said.

He said he also will see to it that his office helps educate the retail and
hospitality industries so their employees can recognize signs of people
buying substances for methamphetamine manufacturing.