U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) issued the following statement today regarding news that the White House plans to propose extensive cuts to the Office of National Drug Control Policy:
"While I can appreciate the president's desire to cut spending, the Office of National Drug Control Policy plays an important role in combating the drug crisis in West Virginia and across our nation. In particular, the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Program works hand in hand with law enforcement across West Virginia to keep dangerous drugs out of our communities. Just as I have in previous years, I will continue to support funding for these programs and the good work they are doing in our state," Rep. Jenkins said.
Rep. Jenkins voted just this week to increase funding for the Office of National Drug Control Policy. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, Rep Jenkins successfully secured this funding increase in the fiscal year 2017 appropriations bill, which President Trump signed into law Friday afternoon.
That bill provided:
$388 million for the Office of National Drug Control Policy, an $8 million increase over the previous year and $73 million more than the Obama administration requested.
$254 million for the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas program, a $4 million increase over the previous year and a $57.5 million increase over the Obama administration's request.
$97 million for the Drug-Free Communities Program, a $2 million increase over the previous year and an $8.5 million increase over the Obama administration's request.