Methamphetamine Remediation Research Act of 2005: Just What the Doctor Ordered for Cleaning Up Methfields – or Sugar Pill Placebo?

Methamphetamine labs can be set up anywhere. One batch of methamphetamine produces five to seven pounds of toxic byproduct. These contaminants are often dumped at the production site and, along with airborne contaminants from the cooking process, leave behind a “methfield.” States have developed widely divergent standards for methfield remediation. This Comment examines the solution proposed under the Methamphetamine Remediation Research Act of 2005 (“MRRA”). Part II provides some background on methamphetamine use, production, and cleanup. Part III reviews how methfields have been addressed by state and federal agencies. Part IV evaluates the MRRA and assesses its potential contributions to the methfield remediation movement. Parts V and VI critique the MRRA, identifying potential weaknesses and outlining opportunities for improvement.