NCJ Number
192775
Date Published
2001
Length
65 pages
Annotation
This document describes the success of drug legalization initiatives in the United States, particularly in California.
Abstract
There is a well-organized legalization campaign being waged by a small group of public relations and media experts, as well as academics. There are six Policy Papers dedicated to illuminating one small part of the drug policy reform issue. The first Policy Paper analyzes the present movement toward reform in the drug policy field, describing its antecedent development, and current status. Those who lead the drug policy reform movement believe that the only alternative to present policies is that drug abuse is a health problem and can only be dealt with by health professionals. They believe there is no rational place for the courts in dealing with drug abusers. Policy Paper 2 discusses the philosophical foundations of the drug court movement and its evolution into the drug policy reform movement. It also addresses why the courts have both an ethical and moral obligation to remain a part of the treatment process for drug abusers. The third Policy Paper discusses how a statewide rational drug policy reform agenda can be achieved. Policy Paper 4 focuses on California Proposition 36, an initiative approved by 60 percent of voters severely limiting judicial discretion to order even limited custody for those on probation for possession of drugs for personal use. Policy Paper 5 argues the need for Rational Drug Policy Reform in the United States It analyzes the potential impact of Proposition 36 and looks for lessons to be learned by other jurisdictions facing similar challenges. The sixth Policy Paper describes the major components of a strategy that can be used in the development of a Rational Drug Policy Reform Agenda.