MAKE DRUG REHAB A MUST

A controversial Super Bowl ad linking drug abuse and terrorism serves as a
reminder that about seven times as many Americans die each year from
illegal drugs as were murdered Sept. 11. Critics who advocate drug
legalization argue that people have the right to consume any substance as
long as others are not directly harmed. But others are: Statistics show
drug users commit a disproportionate number of crimes. While the type of
person who uses drugs may also be predisposed to break other laws,
mind-altering drugs by definition affect a person's sense of judgement.
Another negative but overlooked side effect on others is that it stimulates
a market for drugs. True, a ready supply does not force other adults to
take drugs and selling drugs to children could still be outlawed even if
drugs were legalized. But it is difficult, if not impossible, to enforce
this distinction. This is demonstrated by the ubiquity of adults buying
alcohol for minors.

Furthermore, making illegal drugs easily available would substantially
increase usage. A determined American can now obtain illegal drugs, but a
person who decides he wants to try for the first time has to expend
considerable time and effort. Up until 1875, there were no drug laws and
little drug abuse in America. Families and communities were so tightly
knit that intervention by friends and family could take the place of
government action. Not so in today's highly mobile and impersonal society,
marked by family breakdown. In light of this, a comprehensive solution
emerges. First, drug dealers should continue to be arrested and
imprisoned. Secondly, individuals found with only a small, personal supply
of illegal drugs should be sentenced to mandatory drug rehabilitation. A
more stringent treatment plan that includes fines and is backed up by the
threat of jail time would reduce drug use.

- -American Freedom Center