NCJ Number
160031
Date Published
1996
Length
7 pages
Annotation
Laws dealing with heroin, cocaine, and marijuana have become more strict, but some experts believe that more money should be spent on prevention programs and less on law enforcement.
Abstract
During the late 1800's, narcotics were sold freely, and many popular patent medicines contained narcotics. Cocaine, one of the most common drugs, was used in asthma remedies, toothache drops, and even soft drinks. The first Federal law to control cocaine use was the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906. In the early 1900's, pressure on Federal lawmakers began to grow to ban alcohol production and sales. In 1917, Congress passed a constitutional amendment prohibiting the production and sale of alcohol. In the 1960's, young people had much freer attitudes toward both sex and drugs, and President Nixon responded by creating the Drug Enforcement Administration. During the 1980's, LSD and heroin use decreased while cocaine gained in popularity. In response, President Bush announced a plan to fight illegal drugs in 1989 that included expanding law enforcement and criminal justice measures, increasing assistance to drug producer countries in Latin America, providing treatment to drug addicts, and funding drug education programs. Some policymakers now believe the Federal Government should focus on limiting the supply of drugs, while other officials indicate the real problem is the demand for illegal drugs. As part of the war on drugs, many government agencies require job applicants to submit to drug testing. Some public officials contend current drug policies have failed and drugs should be legalized so that standards can be set for heroin, cocaine, and marijuana in the same way alcohol and other drugs are controlled. Those who do not favor drug legalization believe making drugs legal will tell people that drug use is socially acceptable and safe, even though it can result in health problems and death. Spending for the war on drugs increased from $1.1 billion in 1981 to $11.7 billion in 1992, and the question remains as to what strategy will best protect Americans from the effects of drug abuse.