WHAT THE NEXT DRUG CZAR SHOULD DO

The March 5 OtherViews column Advice for
the next drug czar by William J. Bennett and Robert L. duPont stresses
points that are agreeable to many of us in the field of chemical
dependency but also made points with which we disagree. Prevention is
the best medicine, without question. An increasing number of diverse
mind-altering agents are available currently. Young people must be
given facts about the spectrum of physiological effects on the brain
and the body caused by these chemicals, both short and long term.

The truth about the War on Drugs is that it's a flop. Costly attempts
to stop the influx of illegal substances cannot be considered
successful because illegal chemicals are cheaper and more plentiful
than ever. Stimulants are manufactured here. Hemp is a major cash crop
in the United States. As long as people desire to change mood and
affect chemically, they will find a way and a chemical to do that.
Revenues should be redirected into funding a comprehensive educational
program for primary and secondary schools. Money also should be used
to support drug courts and alternative sentencing for drug-related
felonies committed without direct harm to others. Rather than
incarcerate drug users and those found in possession, treatment must
become the alternative.

The next drug czar, as a compassionate conservative, could well
promote a structured educational program, promote alternatives to
prison and commit resources to intervention and treatment protocols
rather than to mostly ineffective border and sea patrols and
helicopter spraying of coca and poppy plants elsewhere.

Henry N. Blansfield M.D.

Key Biscayne