The 2015 Legislative Session created one-time funding for local DUI Task Forces. House Bill 132 transfers a portion of driver’s license reinstatement fees that have not been disbursed. The funds were distributed into communities to DUI Task Forces that have approved 2015-2016 work plans. Richland County DUI Task Force has been active in our community since 2005 and will receive a portion of these funds. The funds will be budgeted into education and awareness programs over the next couple of years.
The task force will be working off of their 2015-2016 approved work plan, which takes into consideration input received from the community in their end-of-year survey put out through e-mails and social media. Education and awareness is a large part of the plan with RADD (Report a Drunk Driver) being a big piece of awareness. The task force will continue to collaborate with partners in the community to educate on responsible sales and consumption of alcohol. Reducing injuries and deaths related to DUI crashes is a priority.
In collaboration with District II Alcohol and Drug Program and several community businesses and coalitions, the task force has begun plans for an Eastern Montana Alcohol Convention. Some of the funds will allow trainers and presenters to come to this side of the state to help bring awareness and education on issues relating to alcohol consumption and the effect it has on a community. Some of the topics planned for the conference include:
Law Enforcement Training
Law Enforcement Dispatcher & Support Staff Training
Medical Provider Training
Mental Health First Aid Training for the community
Awareness Presenters for community members
Awareness Presenters for community youth
Resources and updated procedures for Establishment Owners/Managers
Community Businesses that already offer alcohol/drug testing or have interest in starting a testing program
The conference is designed to have ‘something for everyone, in the community and all of Eastern Montana. Together we can make our community a safe and healthy place to thrive.
Look for more information in the coming months…the conference is planned for April 2016. If you would like more information please contact Mary Sundheim, Richland County DUI Task Force Coordinator, Richland County Health Department 406-433-2207 or Nicole Hackley, Prevention Service Director, District II Alcohol & Drug Program 406-433-4097.
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