Pence creates statewide drug task force
FW Journal Gazette – Niki Kelly
The task force consists of state agency heads, community experts and lawmakers to evaluate the growing national drug problem and how it relates to Indiana. It will analyze available resources for treatment and best practices as well as identify early intervention programs to deter youth from using drugs.
Pence said “if you are dealing in drugs in this state we’re coming for you. If you are caught up in addiction there is help. There is hope.”
Governor Pence announces new task force to combat drug abuse across state
FOX 59 – Jillian Deam
“Drug abuse problems are not unique to Indiana, and while multiple entities are doing their part to combat drug abuse, we must work together as a state identify gaps that hinder us from preventing drug abuse, treating drug abuse, and effectively enforcing drug laws,†Pence said.
“Together is the best way to reduce, prevent, and treat drug addiction in Indiana.â€
Gov. Pence Announces Multi-Agency Drug Task Force
Indiana Public Media – Brandon Smith
The governor says the newly-created drug task force will identify gaps in enforcement, treatment and prevention and develop solutions for the state.
“How do we make sure that the efforts that are happening at the local level are better coordinated with efforts that are happening at the state and even the national level?†he said during a press conference.
The governor also says his message to the task force is one of urgency. He wants recommendations that could both be implemented immediately through administration action and next year through legislation.
Heroin deaths prompt Gov. Pence’s drug plan
IndyStar – Chelsea Schneider
“Drug abuse problems are not unique to Indiana, and while multiple entities are doing their part to combat drug abuse, we must work together as a state (to) identify gaps that hinder us from preventing drug abuse, treating drug abuse and effectively enforcing drug laws,” Pence said in a statement.
Pence created the task force by executive order. Its membership includes Indiana State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Jerome Adams, Indiana Department of Child Services Director Mary Beth Bonaventura, law enforcement and health officials and state lawmakers.
Pence said law enforcement plays a critical role, but the state also must recognize the need to “address the root causes of addiction and focus on treatment.”
Tully: Indiana’s drug crisis begs us to come together
IndyStar – Matt Tully
“The time has come for a fresh approach to how we address drug addiction,†the governor said Tuesday morning, adding: “Together is the best way to reduce, prevent and treat drug addiction in Indiana.â€
He is right.
And if ever there was an issue that should be free of partisanship, this is it. If ever there was an issue that could inspire a state to come together, to work together, and to hope together, this is it. This is about an epidemic that has smashed through urban, rural and suburban divides, as well as through racial, economic and just about every other sort of divide. There is no downside to coming together on this issue, and there is every incentive.
Pence launching task force to combat state drug abuse
News & Tribune – Maureen Hayden (CNHI)
INDIANAPOLIS — As deaths from heroin overdoses soar, Gov. Mike Pence is launching an effort to plug gaps in drug enforcement, as well as treatment and prevention programs.
Pence appoints drug task force
WISH – Jim Shella
Gov. Mike Pence called for a new approach to the battle against drug abuse Tuesday as he appointed a 21 member task force to find solutions to a serious problem.
VIDEO: Pence announces task force to combat drug abuse in Indiana
WTHR – Kevin Rader
The task force will evaluate existing resources, identify gaps in enforcement, treatment and prevention, and make recommendations for improvement. It will also look at strategies to bring federal, state and local law enforcement together to fight drug abuse. Treatment and prevention will also be on the agenda.
