NCJ Number
121071
Journal
Fortune Volume: 117 Issue: 13 Dated: (June 20, 1988) Pages: 39-41
Date Published
1988
Length
3 pages
Annotation
An effective U.S. anti-drug policy would include more toughness in fighting the most dangerous drugs, more compassion in treating addicts, and the possible legalization of marijuana, which would free up police time and money to crackdown on other drugs.
Abstract
Legalization of all drugs, favored by some academics, members of Congress, and big city mayors, is a last-stand position that would acknowledge government defeat in the face of illicit drug dealers. However, in reality, punishment of offenders is inconsistent, as is society's attitude toward drug users. U.S. anti-drug policy must be developed in line with concepts of civil liberties and within the limits of U.S. resources. A drug-free society should not be the goal. Legalization of marijuana would create separate markets for that drug and harder drugs, thereby cutting the ties between marijuana users and drug dealers. In the Netherlands, this approach has reduced heroin use dramatically. Taxes on marijuana could be used to finance drug treatment programs. However, legalization of hard drugs could cause an explosion of addiction and would not eliminate other problems, such as drug-related crimes. A balanced effort must be implemented to put increased pressure on heroin and cocaine dealers through international cooperation and a unified, coordinated domestic policy. More enforcement resources need to be pushed down to the street, and more resources need to be channeled into treatment programs. Societal change, including educational programs on the hazards of drug use, will be the best solution to the drug problem.