Public Policy Position on Substance Abuse
Background
Alcohol and other drug abuse is a problem of enormous complexity and growing dimensions. The problem is exacerbated by pervasive commercial advertising and complicated by a variety of personal preferences as well as cultural, ethical and social norms pertaining to the use of alcohol and other drugs. The cost in human lives, productivity, deteriorating family life and loss of property continues to be a tragedy of immense proportions. New Mexico, in particular, rates among the highest of the 50 contiguous states in abuse and alcohol-related traffic fatalities.
Two of the most crucial needs facing New Mexico are educational/rehabilitational programs that can reverse the growing trends of alcohol and other drug abuse; and preventive measures to diminish the number of DWI accidents and fatalities.
Policy Position
A. Recognizing the responsibility of the state to promote the well-being of its citizens, the New Mexico Conference of Churches urges the State of New Mexico to provide a long-range plan for funding of comprehensive alcohol and drug abuse educational programs in the public schools; and for funding of treatment centers located throughout the state which includes provision for family therapy where appropriate.
B. In the interest of public safety, the New Mexico Conference of Churches urges the State of New Mexico to seek more effective means of dealing with DWI offenses, with special emphasis on prevention. The NMCC believes a comprehensive program should include:
- An adequately funded uniform alcohol and other drug abuse screening program for anyone arrested on DWI charges.
- Provision for adequate follow-up counseling and treatment when indicated.
- Limitation of availability of alcohol to drivers of motor vehicles.
- A state-wide tracking system of DWI citations for better records.
- A plan for DWI offender restitution.
C. The NMCC urges the Attorney General to extend the life of his DWI Task Force or create a new permanent Task Force on DWI:
to develop and propose to the Legislature a comprehensive plan for dealing with alcohol and other drug abuse and DWI;
to monitor progress in dealing with this problem and to make specific recommendations as appropriate to future legislative sessions.
The NMCC encourages and supports personal decision to abstain from the use of alcohol as a moral choice set in the context of faith and faithfulness. For those who choose to drink alcoholic beverages, the NMCC urges a pattern of moderate, cautious and responsible drinking behavior.
The NMCC recommends and supports a comprehensive, public policy approach to regulate the availability and use of alcohol, acknowledging its special character and the potential risk to persons and society inherent in its use.
The NMCC recommends and urges support for appropriate treatment for all who are affected by alcohol-related problems, including the care and treatment of those suffering from the disease of chemical abuse.
