DHEC, SLED discussing prescription drug abuse

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — South Carolina officials are gathering to discuss prescription drug abuse in the state. State Law Enforcement Division Chief Mark Keel is holding a news conference Tuesday with Department of Health and Environmental Control director Catherine Templeton. Officials say they are planning to talk about a new effort to combat prescription drug abuse in the state. DHEC says in 2011 South Carolina ranked 23rd highest per capita in overdose deaths from prescription medication. Several state lawmakers and local law enforcement officials are expected to join Keel and Templeton on Tuesday. ___ Kinnard can be reached at http://twitter.com/MegKinnardAP