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New Hampshire Will Get A New 'Drug Czar'

CREDIT SARA PLOURDE / NHPR

The State's so-called "drug czar" is stepping down. 

James Vara, who held the position for the past year, has been nominated by Gov. Chris Sununu to serve as Chief of Staff for the Attorney General. The Executive Council must approve Vara's new position at next week's meeting.

Former Manchester Police Chief David Mara will take over Vara's post, known officially as the Governor's Advisor on Addiction and Behavioral Health. Mara currently serves as interim police chief in Portsmouth.

In a written statement, Gov. Sununu said Tuesday he was “honored” to have Mara fill this role. 
Vara succeeded Jack Wozmak, who stepped down amid criticism from Republicans that he wasn't doing enough. 

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