Maine Governor Signs Bill Aimed at Heroin Epidemic

The bill was passed in both the House and the Senate Tuesday

The Maine Legislature has completed Job No. 1 - adopting an amended proposal sought by the governor to hire more drug agents to combat the state's heroin epidemic.

The bipartisan bill passed in both the House and Senate on Tuesday, and the Republican Gov. Paul LePage quickly signed it into law. LePage called it "just the first step in a process that needs a much more comprehensive approach."

The $3.7 million package includes funding sought by LePage for 10 additional agents for the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency. It also includes an expansion of drug treatment programs and a 10-bed detoxification center.

The bill was amended to change the source of funding. The money would come from the General Fund and from the Medical Use of Marijuana Fund.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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