“Today, I challenge all Montanans to join this fight, take responsibility for what you see happening in your community.  Together, we can send a message to our kids that Methamphetamine hurts communities, damages the environment, and destroys the lives of people who use it,” Rehberg said today in a speech before a joint session of the Montana Legislature. 

            Rehberg outlined five areas he would direct his efforts in Congress to combat meth use: ensure prosecutors and law enforcement have effective tools and training, require federal forfeiture funds to be used for meth waste cleanup, foster ant-drug education programs, equip hospitals and clinics for effective drug-abuse treatment, and urge Canada and Mexico to join in the fight against meth.

“These things I am ready to fight for in Congress.  But government can’t do this alone.  If we really want to put a stop to this terrible scourge in our society, private citizens and organizations must recognize they, too, have a stake in this.”

Rehberg’s address, broadcast live statewide through TVMT, and Vision Net, Inc., also focused on tightening Montana’s border security.  

Other Quotes:

Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage:  “…we’ve not only provided seniors with prescription drug coverage, but we’ve also addressed the need for preventative programs to help seniors with chronic illnesses maximize their health and well-being…”

Small Business Health Care:  “With nearly one-in-five Montanans uninsured, we need Small Business Health Care Plans that will enable farmers, ranchers, and small business employees to access the same affordable heal care choices and benefits enjoyed by employees of large companies.”

Energy Policy:  “America must also protect its interests and future by establishing a national energy policy … (one that) addresses ways to improve domestic production, improve access to reliable electricity, new technologies, increased energy efficiency, and increased funding for low-income energy assistance.”

Highway Bill:  “These investments will stimulate Montana’s economy, provide our state with better roads, bridges, and increased transit options, encourage development and, above all, give us an economic return of $6 for every $1 spent.”

Canadian Border:  “There’s another threat that involves our border, and that’s the economic and health threat posed by BSE.  That’s why, for the past four years, I’ve been the chief advocate for mandatory Country of Origin Labeling.  As a part of my Border Security Plan, I want our border with Canada to stay closed to live beef until further notice … Our consumers deserve nothing less than the safest product.”