Gyeong Gyumyeong, Yeoju City Council Member, Enacts Ordinance Supporting Drug Abuse Prevention Activities

Yeoju City Council Enacts Nation's First Ordinance Mandating Drug Surveillance Officer Inspections

Gyeonggyumyeong, a member of the Yeoju City Council in Gyeonggi Province, proposed the "Ordinance on Supporting Drug Abuse Prevention Activities in Yeoju City," which was approved as originally proposed at the 2nd regular meeting of the 72nd Yeoju City Council. This ordinance is significant as it establishes an institutional foundation to protect the health and safety of Yeoju citizens and proactively address drug-related issues.

Councilor Kyungmyung Gyeong of Yeoju City Council. Photo by Yeoju City Council

The main contents of the ordinance include the establishment and implementation of prevention plans to prevent drug abuse, customized education and publicity tailored to different life stages, and the establishment of cooperative systems with related organizations and groups. Additionally, public officials with expertise are appointed as drug monitors to strengthen supervision and regular inspections of drug handlers and businesses. Notably, the ordinance requires public officials to undergo mandatory annual regular drug tests, marking the first case nationwide to demand exemplary conduct regarding drug issues within the public sector.

In a free speech, Councilor Gyeonggyumyeong stated, "Drug problems are social issues that cannot be resolved by simple punishment," and added, "Through this ordinance, I hope Yeoju City will take the lead in establishing systematic measures encompassing prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation, protecting the health and safety of its citizens." He further emphasized, "Drug issues are affecting youth and the public sector as well, highlighting the need for policy responses focused on prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation."

With the passage of this ordinance, Yeoju City has established an institutional foundation to continue systematic efforts to prevent drug abuse and protect citizens' health. The Yeoju City Council plans to actively promote policies prioritizing the health and safety of citizens as the foremost task for the sustainable development of the local community.