Idaho’s first methadone-maintenance clinic has opened in Meridian to help people with drug addictions maintain productive lives. The Center for Behavioral Health opened earlier this month and has 10 patients so far. The center helps addicts by allowing them to use methadone with the goals of eventually weaning them off opiates. Previously, Idaho patients were forced to drive to methadone clinics in Ontario, Oregon and Ogden, Utah, because the state had banned such clinics. Idaho lawmakers changed the law during the 2007 Legislative session at the request of the center’s owners, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, and the Idaho state Board of Pharmacy. Idaho Drug Czar Debbie Field had also asked for the change, saying the clinic would offer a brighter future for people who are recovering from addictions. (AP)