Pubdate: Tue, 22 Jul 2003
Source: Times Herald-Record (NY)
Copyright: 2003 Times Herald-Record
Contact: http://www.recordonline.com/services/contact.htm
Website: http://www.recordonline.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2544
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?140 (Rockefeller Drug Laws)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/people/Gov+Pataki (Governor Pataki)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/people/Russell+Simmons (Russell Simmons)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?199 (Mandatory Minimum Sentencing)

THE DRUG REFORM RAP

More often than not, this page finds itself on the opposite side of social 
issues with Assemblyman Tom Kirwan of Newburgh.

Occasionally, though, we find that, in his no-frills manner of speaking, he 
sizes up a situation perfectly.

On the matter of reforming the state's Rockefeller drug laws, we find 
ourselves in both positions simultaneously.

Kirwan thinks Gov. Pataki is going too far in trying to reform the 
antiquated drug laws, which carry stiff mandatory sentences for sale of 
drugs. He thinks the problem is being overstated.

We disagree. We think the laws represent a failed approach to illegal drugs 
and it is past time to change them via added emphasis on treatment, harsher 
punishment of dealers and judicial control over sentencing.

But Pataki, despite many pledges of reform has tiptoed around the subject. 
Lately, he has forsaken dealing with legislative members who know the 
subject well in favor of seeking the counsel of hip-hop impresario Russell 
Simmons and civil rights activist Al Sharpton.

"Who the hell are Russell Simmons and Al Sharpton?" asks Kirwan in his 
inimitable fashion. He told Ottaway News Service columnist Matt Smith that 
Pataki should be talking to mayors and prosecutors who deal with the drug 
problem. To which we can only add: ditto.

Simmons may have some good advice and Pataki may be looking to shore up 
political support by including him in closed-door talks with legislative 
leaders, but the governor is also alienating legislators who have to vote 
on changes, yet are being ignored.

Worst of all, even with Simmons and Sharpton backing him up, the governor 
is still coming up short on progressive reform, which one presumes is his 
intent. This makes no sense. If you're going to be hammered for going 
outside the norm in Albany, at least come up with proposals that justify 
the approach. 
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