METH, NOW AND THEN

I'm writing about the not-so-thoughtful letter from former Rep. Jim
Platt who in 1969 proposed that meth be criminalized in Utah ["Utah's
Meth History," Letters, Dec. 28, City Weekly].

In 1969, when meth was legally available in doctor's offices or in
local pharmacies for pennies per dose, we didn't have much a of meth
problem. We do today.

In 1969, meth was not a household word. It is today. In 1969, we
didn't have stories almost every month about meth lab busts in a cheap
motels or trailer parks. We do today.

In 1969, meth was manufactured in pharmaceutical labs with government
regulations for safety. Now, meth is manufactured with batteries and
fertilizer with little or no safety precautions.

In 1969, meth was regulated by our government and controlled by
medical doctors. Today, meth is unregulated, untaxed and controlled by
criminals.

In 1969, we had a very minor medical problem. Today, we have a major
law enforcement problem.

Kirk Muse

Mesa, Ariz.