Conquering Substance Abuse in West Virginia
Community members know their towns and neighbors best. They understand what is at the root of their particular problem. That is why I formed the Governor’s Advisory Council on Substance Abuse and the six regional task forces. This is the first step in a long-term action plan. By bringing a diverse group of individuals together to share ideas and develop customized plans of action, we have taken the first step to saving our communities.
Substance abuse is an issue that knows no boundaries. It touches people from all walks of life and all age groups. For many of our close-knit communities across the state, substance abuse is a personal issue affecting neighbors, friends and families. It is seen as a contributor to negative social issues and we are all understandably concerned.
Far too often, potentially productive members of the community are lost to substance abuse. There are some places in our state where there are not enough qualified, drug-free West Virginians to fill the available jobs. More worrisome, our state is investing in individuals, training them for new careers, only to find they cannot secure jobs because they cannot pass a drug test. To ensure state money is properly invested, I propose that we begin drug testing individuals before they begin a workforce education program.
West Virginia is working diligently to deliver a comprehensive plan to address this multifaceted, multilayered problem. We have dedicated ourselves to addressing both substance abuse and drug related crimes so that we can create a stronger West Virginia.
I believe we must be more than just aware of what is at stake. I want to send a message that West Virginia is serious about protecting the wonderful quality of life we have come to expect. That is why I proposed legislation to strengthen the Prescription Monitoring Program, to require health professionals who prescribe controlled substances to receive drug diversion and “best practice” prescribing training, while also limiting the number of controlled substances prescribed in a specific time period.
We must create expectations of success in combating the problem and look at substance abuse from all levels. Together, we can move our state forward and defeat this crisis. Destroying this burden will free us to reinvigorate our education system, recruit and expand jobs and make our communities safer. Thereby making West Virginia a great place to call home.