Davis Urges Colleagues to Act on Meth Lab RemediationFebruary 18, 2005

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- U.S. Rep. Lincoln Davis (TN-4) is urging the passage of legislation calling for the development of health-based guidelines for the clean up of former methamphetamine labs. These highly contaminated areas create monumental health problems and property damage often resulting in various, sometimes life threatening illnesses or the complete loss of property value.

The Methamphetamine Remediation Act of 2005 requires the EPA, in conjunction with state and local authorities, to develop a national set of health-based clean-up guidelines for former meth labs, funds the development of field-test kits to detect meth labs for use by law enforcement, and funds a study on the long term health effects of children recovered from meth labs and the long term effects on law enforcement officers.

"Local officials who deal with meth on a daily basis have cited the clean up and remediation of former meth labs among the toughest challenges they face," said Davis. "Through these guidelines we will be arming law enforcement and health officials with the tools to clean up unlivable meth sites."

Based on Drug Enforcement Agency estimated figures for 2004, Tennessee ranked 3rd nationally in meth seizures and arrests. In the Southeast, Tennessee accounted for 75% of lab seizures.

"Time is of the utmost importance, and we need to act now. There has been an enormous strain laid upon law enforcement officers who have little in means of how to clean up old sites," Davis said. "I plan on aggressively reaching out to educate my colleagues in Congress so we can get the resources out in the field."

Davis is a co-sponsor of H.R. 798, the Methamphetamine Remediation Act of 2005.