Pubdate: Sun, 06 Apr 2003
Source: Orlando Sentinel (FL)
Copyright: 2003 Orlando Sentinel
Contact:  http://www.orlandosentinel.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/325
Author: Robert Sharpe
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v03/n479/a03.html

DRUG WAR

In response to James McDonough's Tuesday op-ed piece: So-called anonymous 
surveys that rely on the self-reporting of illegal drug use are virtually 
worthless in this age of zero tolerance. Teenagers know that honesty could 
very well result in drug-sniffing dogs, locker searches and mass arrests. 
Most teenagers outgrow their youthful indiscretions involving drugs. An 
arrest and criminal record, on the other hand, can be life shattering.

After admitting to smoking pot (but not inhaling), former President Bill 
Clinton opened himself up to "soft on drugs" criticism. And thousands of 
Americans have paid the price in the form of shattered lives. More 
Americans went to prison or jail during the Clinton administration than 
during any past administration.

As an admitted former drinker and alleged illicit-drug user, President 
George W. Bush is also politically vulnerable when it comes to drugs. While 
youthful indiscretions did not stop Clinton or Bush from assuming 
leadership positions, an arrest surely would have. The short-term health 
effects of marijuana are inconsequential compared to the long-term effects 
of criminal records.

Drug abuse is bad, but the zero-tolerance drug war is worse.

Robert Sharpe

Program Officer

Drug Policy Alliance

Washington, D.C.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom