Gov. Bill Walker signed a disaster declaration that’s intended to make it easier to give overdose victims the life-saving overdose antidote naloxone. More than 120 Alaskans have died from opioid overdoses over the past three years. Walker said declaring a disaster will enable a coordinated statewide response.
Alcohol & Substance Abuse
Governor issues disaster declaration on Alaska’s opioid epidemic
Gov. Bill Walker has declared Alaska’s opioid epidemic a state disaster and ordered state and federal money for overdose medication. In the declaration, Walker said the opioid epidemic goes quote “beyond the timely and effective response and recovery capability of local resources.”
Juneau Assembly bans homeless from sleeping downtown
Downtown merchants have complained of the homeless using shuttered storefronts as shelters. Those concerns were heard by a majority of the Assembly that voted 5-4 to pass the ordinance.
Juneau’s proposed ‘camping ban’ could affect HUD funding
The Alaska Coalition on Housing and Homelessness has warned that a camping ban targeting the homeless could imperil Juneau’s access to federal grant dollars. This is an issue some Assembly members want addressed before the ordinance goes to a vote on Feb. 13.
Petersburg police seize $8,000 worth of meth in bust
Petersburg police seized $8,000 worth of methamphetamine and a large amount of illegal marijuana at a trailer home in town Feb. 3.
Spike In alcohol-related calls straining Bethel Search and Rescue resources
It’s the first winter in Bethel since a liquor store opened after almost 40 years of illegal sales. Alcohol is easier than ever to get, and Bethel Search and Rescue says the number of calls they receive, almost all alcohol-related, has spiked. Volunteers are getting worn out, resources are depleting and the organization is asking the community for help.