Pubdate: Thu, 10 Jul 2003
Source: Boulder Weekly (CO)
Copyright: 2003 Boulder Weekly
Contact:  http://www.boulderweekly.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/57
Author: Tom Angell
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v03/n937/a04.html?1087

DRUG POLICY ABUSE

Apparently the DEA is using the RAVE Act to target political groups that 
they don't like. (Re: "Don't Say We Didn't Warn You," In case you missed 
it, June 21.) Drug use occurs everyday at concerts and other events around 
the country. It is a miscarriage of justice that the DEA would use the law 
to only target events that advocate for changes in drug policy.

It's abhorrent that American taxpayers' money is being used to stifle free 
speech and political activity. Regardless, the RAVE Act does nothing to 
reduce the harms associated with substance abuse. It only puts youth at 
greater danger by holding event organizers negligent for adopting effective 
harm reduction techniques, like providing water or "chill out" rooms where 
dancers can relax.

The RAVE Act should be repealed immediately, and the DEA's budget should be 
reduced by the amount it spent on this political charade.

Tom Angell /Board of Directors, Students for Sensible Drug Policy
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MAP posted-by: Larry Stevens