DRUG TREATMENT

CHICAGO -- We read with great interest V. Dion Haynes' article "No-jail drug
policy works, Arizona says" (News, April 21). Those of us who are engaged in
combating drug addiction were heartened by Mr. Haynes' report that the
Arizona Supreme Court's study concluded that Proposition 200, the new
mandatory treatment law, has broken drug users' habits in the short term and
has saved the state millions of dollars.

As one of the largest providers of substance abuse treatment in the United
States, the Gateway Foundation has been at the forefront in promoting
treatment for first- and second-time drug offenders. It is our firm belief
that drug-abuse victims can be reached and rehabilitated through a
client-centered and client-driven therapeutic program that addresses special
needs while encouraging self-reliance and individual responsibility.

At facilities in six states, including two in Arizona, Gateway's services
reach more than 24,000 medically indigent men, women and children annually.
Our clients achieve recovery from chemical dependence as they are exposed to
healthy community dynamics, participate in encounter groups, perform
legitimate job functions and learn to use the tools necessary to remain
clean and sober.

It is our hope that other states will emulate Arizona in adopting mandatory
treatment legislation and that the federal government will pump additional
funds into treatment programs.

For Gateway's part we pledge to continue our efforts to address public
policy issues, demonstrating to legislators that treatment saves lives and
taxpayer dollars.

Michael Darcy, President and CEO, Gateway Foundation.