Arkansas Bill Could Curb Growing Meth Problem

Theres a bill on Arkansas Governor Mike Beebes desk waiting for his signature, geared at curbing methamphetamine use. It follows a law already in effect that requires pharmacists to track the sales of pseudoephedrine. The bill could help in the war on drugs. It is nothing new for pharmacists in Arkansas to log pseudoephedrine purchases. A law requiring the record was passed nearly two years ago. North Heights Pharmacist Diana Wilson says the procedure must be followed across the board. "Everyone has to fill out their name and address, and there is a certain amount of Sudafed products they can get on a daily basis and monthly basis." Aimed at decreasing the use of methamphetamine, the log also helps tackle all the "cooks in the kitchen." "It not only affects the user but we see it in homes where there are children exposed to these chemicals and drug use from people who are in charge of it," says Texarkana, AR Police Captain Earnest Keck. Arkansas lawmakers unanimously approved a bill to take the "meth control" a step forward. If Governor Mike Beebe signs it, funding will be provided to create an electronic database to track the purchase of pseudoephedrine "meths main ingredient" and like substances. Says Keck, "It allows law enforcement in particular to look at a centralized computer database that operates real time," adding the database is a great idea. "This will allow us to be more proactive by looking at the laws to see what same names come up around the state." While the new tool could help area law enforcment, those in the pharmacy look at it as more work. "I know it is going to be an extra step and headache for us but, of course, we are going to do it because the law will require it," says Wilson. But they do realize what role this measure plays in the war against drugs. "Meth is a serious problem in this area," says Keck. Beebe should sign off on the bill in coming days.