Louisville Added To Appalachian Drug Program

Louisville is now in the pool of federal money aimed at reducing drug trafficking in Appalachia. The Office of National Drug Control Policy has for many years allocated money specifically to southeastern Kentucky counties to help combat drugs that are prevalent in that area, like marijuana and methamphetamine.Louisville Congressman John Yarmuth fought to get Jefferson County added to the funding list. He says when it comes to drug trafficking, Louisville and Appalachia are one in the same.“In terms of the total picture, its total funds committed to one problem," says Yarmuth, "and the benefit of including Jefferson County will accrue to the Appalachian counties, even though the money may not increase.”It hasn’t been determined how much money Jefferson County will receive to fight drug trafficking – though early estimates are around $220-million in the 2010 budget.First, local law enforcement agencies will coordinate with their federal counterparts to create a task force.