Is drug testing the best way to deter substance abuse by our youth? Community forums discussing this issue were triggered recently when a Petoskey school board member suggested drug testing for schools. The reason: to help prevent students from becoming problem drug users.

Drug abuse has obviously been difficult to resolve nationwide, let alone in Petoskey. So, it shouldn't be surprising there was no consensus in favor or against testing among those attending the Petoskey meetings. I have always believed emphasis of personal responsibility for one's own actions is the best policy attacking drug abuse. Tough drug laws, TV ad campaigns, and presidential proclamations have all failed to make a dent into the problem.

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