FORMER DRUG OFFENDERS TARGETED UNFAIRLY

To the Editor:

Thank you for raising awareness of the Higher Education Act's denial
of student loans to youth convicted of drug offenses. ["Drug
convictions cost students financial aid," Oct. 5] Instead of
empowering at-risk students with a college degree, HEA limits career
opportunities and increases the likelihood that those affected will
resort to crime. Speaking of crime, convicted rapists and murders are
still eligible for federal student loans.

Most students outgrow their youthful indiscretions involving illicit
drugs. An arrest and criminal record, on the other hand, can be
life-shattering. After admitting to smoking pot - but not inhaling,
former President Bill Clinton opened himself up to "soft on drugs"
criticism. Thousands of Americans have paid the price in the form of
shattered lives. More Americans went to prison or jail during the
Clinton administration than during any past administration.

As an admitted former drinker and alleged illicit drug user,
President George W. Bush is also politically vulnerable when it comes
to drugs. While youthful indiscretions didn't stop Clinton or Bush
from assuming leadership positions, an arrest surely would have. The
short-term effects of marijuana are inconsequential compared to the
long-term effects of criminal records. Students who want to help end
the intergenerational culture war, otherwise known as the war on some
drugs, should contact Students for Sensible Drug Policy at
"http://www.ssdp.org"www.ssdp.org.

Thank you for your consideration.

Robert Sharpe, MPA

Policy Analyst