TOUGHER METH PENALTIES ARE JUST THE BEGINNING

After initially dropping the ball in the state's intensifying battle against methamphetamine, state lawmakers have an opportunity to rectify part of that mistake.  A bill is moving through the legislature which would increase the penalties substantially for making or dealing meth.  It should be approved and sent to the governor.  But it should be only the beginning.

The bill is being sponsored by Rep.  Les Winningham, D-Huntsville.  It would make the manufacture or sale of half a gram of meth a Class B felony, punishable by eight to 30 years in prison.  That's the same penalty given to those convicted of making or dealing cocaine or crack.  Currently, the crime of making or dealing meth is a Class C felony, punishable by three to 15 years in prison.

Increasing the state's meth penalties just makes sense.  That sends the right message that the state is serious about dealing with this growing epidemic.  And it helps get meth dealers and manufacturers off the streets and in jail where they belong.