DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa officials have launched a communications tool that aims to inform residents about new and emerging drug concerns. The Governor’s Office of Drug Control Policy says the service will provide updates via a monthly newsletter. Special alerts may be issued via social media and local news.

Policy Director Steve Lukan says it’s important for Iowa residents to get timely information about the growing number of new synthetic drugs and other modified substances of abuse. Residents can sign up for the monthly newsletter online.