DRUG TREATMENT PROGRAMS NEEDED

The Sept. 1 news reported federal government surveys that found
Massachusetts to be the leading state in the use of many categories of
illegal drugs. Clearly, the efforts by law enforcement and prosecuting
agencies need to be supported by more treatment, otherwise known as
"demand reduction." Question 8 on this November's ballot will allow
drug forfeiture funds to be used toward drug treatment.

Present law does not allow that flexibility nor does it require public
disclosure of how these funds are spent. Question 8 creates a "Drug
Treatment Trust Fund" whose records would be open to the public in
contrast to the refusal of some district attorneys to explain how
forfeiture funds are now being used.

A vote for Question 8 will be a vote for reducing the demand for
illegal drugs and for accountability in the use of drug forfeiture
funds.

THOMAS J. DELANEY,
MSW, Rockport