News

Graham, Barry Propose Drug Treatment on Demand

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Alan Heymann
(202) 724-8031

May 3, 2006

Washington, DC – The District of Columbia would have its first plan to give residents free access to immediate treatment for drug addiction and alcoholism, under a bill introduced yesterday by Councilmembers Marion Barry (D-Ward Eight) and Jim Graham (D-Ward One).

“When someone with a drug or alcohol problem finally gets it together and goes for help, we can’t afford to make them wait,” said Councilmember Graham. “That moment is so fleeting and so fragile. We have to move with that person and get them into treatment.”

The bill would require the Mayor to develop a comprehensive plan for delivering treatment on demand and submit it to the Council.

“Alcoholism and drug addiction are at the core of so many problems in society,” said Councilmember Graham. “We can make a major dent in unemployment, domestic abuse, child abuse and all sorts of crime by getting people help as soon as they need it.”

Six other Councilmembers have co-sponsored the Barry/Graham bill.

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