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.