REQUESTING THE NEW MEXICO CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO CONTINUE ITS SUPPORT OF EFFORTS TO REDUCE HEROIN ABUSE IN NEW MEXICO, WITH EMPHASIS IN NORTHERN NEW MEXICO.

WHEREAS, the heroin abuse problem in northern New Mexico has reached epidemic proportions according to some health professionals; and

WHEREAS, New Mexico leads the nation in per capita deaths related to heroin use, and northern New Mexico leads the state; and

WHEREAS, New Mexico's congressional delegation has pledged to find additional federal money to assist local and state officials in dealing with the situation; and

WHEREAS, successfully addressing drug abuse requires a coordinated strategy of education, prevention, treatment and law enforcement on the local, state and federal levels;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that our New Mexico congressional delegation be acknowledged with appreciation for its efforts so far and be requested to increase those efforts with the necessary funding to assist local, state, federal and community leaders in a commitment to reduce heroin abuse and its consequences in New Mexico with emphasis in northern New Mexico and to coordinate with the New Mexico legislature and governor to address this very serious problem; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this memorial be transmitted to the New Mexico congressional delegation.