Aiona aims to cut
illegal drug use
by 10 percentA September summit will include
delegates from several countries
Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona says he wants to reduce illegal drug use in Hawaii by more than 10 percent over three years.
That is one of the major objectives for Aiona's drug control summit set for Sept. 15-17 at the Sheraton-Waikiki Hotel. Aiona released a strategic plan for the conference yesterday, saying the invitation-only gathering provides a starting point to stop and treat those with drug problems in Hawaii.
"What we are about to embark upon through this summit, and what we hope to produce through it, is a first," he said. "It is a new beginning."
He added, "We are trying to establish not only a system, but a mechanism that can serve both as a model and ... something that the future generations can used in whatever problem they may be confronted with."
The conference's goals will be to stop illicit drug use and underage drinking before they start, treat drug and alcohol abusers, and intervene in the distribution of illicit drugs.
Aiona said that will be done through focused discussion on four areas: model legislation, systems improvement, financing or funding, and community-government partnerships.
"And through those topics, hopefully, we are going to produce our final, working strategic plan," he said.
Aiona said the conference will also discuss alcohol abuse and other drugs. A House-Senate Committee on Ice is specifically investigating the crystal methamphetamine problem, hoping to come up with legislative solutions next session.
Legislators and the Lingle administration have said their separate efforts complement each other.
Between 300 and 500 people are expected to attend the summit, including representatives from Micronesia, Guam, Saipan, American Samoa and other countries, Aiona said. Participants will be asked to complete an online survey that will help focus the discussion during the summit.
While not open to the public, Aiona said the public will have input via the Web site and through "talk story" sessions that he will lead statewide this summer. The first will be from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. July 29 at Kapolei Middle School.
Conference costs will be covered by sponsors. Aiona's plan, "Hawaii Drug Control Strategy: A New Beginning," can be viewed online at www.hawaii.gov/ltgov/drugsummit.