MADISON – Senator Jay Rockefeller today applauded Judge William Thompson’s latest drug court graduates for Boone and Lincoln counties, saying they represent the real success that can be achieved in the battle against drug abuse. “You are living, breathing, shining examples of what it means to beat addiction,” Rockefeller said. “You are an inspiration to everyone waging that fight right now. While the weight of our state’s drug abuse problems can feel downright crushing at times, there are moments of hope. Faces of courage. Stories of triumph. I celebrate yours today. “Take pride in what you have achieved. And take heart knowing that the courage and strength that brought you to this day can lead you even further. There will be trials ahead, but I like to think the worst is behind you. And the best is in front of you.” Rockefeller is working on a comprehensive approach to fight prescription drug abuse in West Virginia. He has strongly supported initiatives like the Safe and Drug Free School Program and the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program, while also recognizing that one of the biggest challenges is providing treatment for those who are addicted – which is why he is a strong supporter of drug courts and other treatment programs. Rockefeller this year has renewed his focus on drug abuse prevention and treatment. In addition to roundtable discussions he held last month in Huntington and Charleston, he is currently pushing two pieces of legislation – the Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act and the Excellence in Mental Health Act. These bills address the need to educate patients and prescribers about the dangers of drug abuse while helping solve the lack of affordable and readily available treatment options. The event was also attended by U.S. Congressman Nick Rahall, II, (D-W-Va.) and several other state, county and local government officials, as well as former and current drug court participants. See the Wednesday, April 3, 2013, print edition of the Coal Valley News for a more detailed story of the event.