[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 182 (Wednesday, November 30, 2011)]
[Senate]
[Page S8065]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  RECOGNIZING BENTON COUNTY DRUG COURT

 Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, the Benton County Drug Treatment 
Court is a shining example of our Nation's drug court system. As one of 
only 10 mentor courts in the Nation, the Benton County Drug Treatment 
Court serves as a model program for the over 2,500 treatment courts in 
the United States. This achievement is especially significant given 
that the Benton County Drug Treatment Court started as an ambitious 
pilot program only 10 years ago.
  The positive impact drug treatment courts have on individuals, 
families, and communities throughout our country is remarkable. Due to 
tireless efforts underway since the first drug court was established 
over 20 years ago, there is now a system in place which, if completed, 
reduces the likelihood of drug relapse for individuals, provides 
increased housing stability, and brings families together. The positive 
outcomes from completion of drug courts are well documented and benefit 
those outside the system as well by reducing costs to the taxpayer.
  Congratulations to the Benton Country Drug Court on their 10th 
anniversary. Because of innovative solutions like drug courts, our 
country is one step closer to breaking the cycle of addiction which has 
plagued our country for far too long.

                          ____________________