Solving the Heroin Problem

Law

Law officials in New Orleans have passed a new set of laws in order to combat the growing problem of heroin addiction in that city. The two laws target both distributors of heroin and also the ability of paramedics to combat heroin overdoses. The first law raises minimum sentences for producers and distributors of heroin from five to ten years, while also raising the minimum for possession to two years. The second law sets up a system to save the lives of those who have fallen into the trap of heroin addiction. The law does this by allowing first responders including law enforcement, fire fighters, and paramedics the ability to carry the opiate antagonist Naloxone. The drug is very useful in pulling an opiate user out of an overdose and saving their life which is important as heroin related overdoses have been increasing all over the state of Louisiana.

East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner Dr. William “Beau” Clark testified in favor of the bill, saying the increase in heroin deaths from 2012 to 2013 in East Baton Rouge Parish was seven-fold, from 5 to 35. So far in 2014, he’s confirmed seven opiate overdoses with two more pending, putting the year on par with last.

There is also a bill sponsored by Sen. Sharon Weston Broome, D-Baton Rouge, which has the goal of giving legal immunity to witnesses of drug overdoses. This bill seeks to solve the problem of the fatalities that occur when someone witnesses an overdose but doesn’t call authorities due to the fear of legal repercussions. This is just another measure to save lives from heroin overdoses.

Louisiana is taking these steps towards solving the growing heroin epidemic and deaths. The staff here at Narconon Louisiana would like to lend their support. We offer free drug education on the signs of drug abuse for all drugs. Please call us today if you are in need of drug education or if one of your loved ones is struggling with addiction.

Signs of Heroin Abuse:

Heroin
  • Needle marks on arms or legs
  • Wearing long sleeves all the time
  • Short lasting flu-like symptoms
  • Nausea and other stomach problems
  • Pinpoint pupils
  • Money problems,frequently asking for money
  • Easily agitated