National Sheriffs’ Association Supports Drug Abuse Resistance Education Program D.A.R.E.

WHEREAS, the National Sheriffs’ Association recognizes the nationwide seriousness of drug abuse, heightened abuse of opioids and prescription drugs, and violence by our nation’s youth, and the urgent need to use and expand school-based prevention education programs throughout the nation; and

WHEREAS, the day-to-day struggle against alcohol abuse, tobacco, drugs, bullying, cyber abuse, and violence requires a long-term national, state, and local effort and commitment; and

WHEREAS, since 1983, the D.A.R.E. program has taught millions of elementary, middle, and high school students decision-making skills for safe and healthy living so that they resist the pressure to be involved in high risk behaviors; and

WHEREAS, D.A.R.E. trains local deputy sheriffs and other law enforcement officers who in turn serve as a local resource in helping educate young people on how to resist peer pressure and refrain from drug use, violence, bullying, and other high-risk behaviors; and

WHEREAS, the D.A.R.E. program strengthens the relationship and builds trust between law enforcement and young people through the D.A.R.E. officer’s presence in classrooms throughout America teaching students decision making for safe and healthy living; and

WHEREAS, Government and society must address the use of illegal drugs, opioids, tobacco, and alcohol, as well as prescription drug abuse among youth by building knowledge of the warning signs and risks associated with substance abuse, and providing them the decision making skills to resist these and other high risk behaviors; and

WHEREAS, D.A.R.E. instructors, parents, teachers, health care professionals and all other interested parties who help our nation’s youth grow into responsible, successful adults, are strengthening our country, and contributing to a future of hope for everyone;

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED, that the National Sheriffs’ association acknowledges and actively supports the efforts of D.A.R.E. Programs to significantly reduce/eliminate the use of alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs, opioids and prescription drugs, and other high risk behavior by our nation’s youth; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the National Sheriffs’ Association strongly urges Sheriffs’ Offices across our nation to utilize D.A.R.E. Program in their communities.

NOTE: NSA Resolutions are in effect for four-years