"Meth is different. It does impact neurotransmitters but it doesn't have the same type of withdrawal. People don't tend to use as many days a week and people tend to use in a more functional way. So if you're homeless and you don't have much money, meth is an appetite suppressant and keeps you awake so you can be safer at night," Banta-Green said.

Gov. Jay Inslee proposed next steps this week to improve access to care, focusing on the opioid crisis with budget and legislation proposals to expand treatment and reduce stigma. But the plan, doesn't address Washington's meth problem.