NCJ Number
184445
Date Published
Agencies
NIJ
Publication Series
Publication Type
Article
Annotation
This article presents findings from the work of the congressionally mandated Methamphetamine Interagency Task Force as part of the Comprehensive Methamphetamine Control Act of 1996.
Abstract
The legislation directed the Task Force to examine the impact of
methamphetamine and other synthetic stimulants; also to evaluate,
design, and implement Federal strategies for educating the public
about methamphetamine, preventing and treating its use, and
helping law enforcement agencies respond to it. During the course
of its work, the Task Force explored methamphetamine's history
and the current and future state of the problem in the United
States, so as to provide guidance for a national plan to combat
it. The Task Force concluded that methamphetamine is a dangerous,
addictive drug, and the population of users is expanding but not
well defined. The precursor chemicals used to produce
methamphetamine are relatively inexpensive, widely available,
easy to transport, and difficult to regulate. There is no single
source country or single specific trafficking route for
methamphetamine. The clandestine laboratories where
methamphetamine is produced domestically pose significant hazards
to law enforcement officials, nearby residents, and the general
public. The recommendations developed by the Task Force are in
the areas of prevention and education, treatment, law
enforcement, and the implementation of an effective strategy.
Date Created: November 5, 2010