A new form of a familiar drug is appearing in rural America and it’s said to be addicting younger users. It’s a cheaper version of heroin which is more pure and it can be smoked or snorted. This new heroin is subject of a hearing in Washington D-C today conducted by Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley.While it hasn’t had much impact in Iowa to date, Grassley says the more-accessible, less-expensive heroin is part of a disturbing trend in other states’ suburban and rural communities. He says drug counselors are seeing a growing number of teenagers in treatment for heroin addiction.Grassley plans to introduce legislation that would respond to the new type of heroin. He says he wants to revitalize community and parental involvement and increase funding for addiction research and treatment programs.
