Delaware Attorney General Matt Denn wants the First State to spend more on drug treatment.
During testimony before a legislative panel Denn told lawmakers that prison was not the answer to those addicted to heroin or other drugs.
The state Attorney General calls the opioid epidemic a public health issue.
Denn said he is asking for lawmakers carve out $4 million for increase the construction of private treatment facilities.
The Wilmington News Journal reports that currently there are 137 residential treatment beds in the state.
But Denn noted there are some 11-thousand people who are suffering from addiction.
