Opponents Distort Initiative 685

Concerning Initiative 685, which deals with criminal punishment of drug
addicts. I have thoroughly read the measure and statements for and against
this initiative. I hope all who receive the pamphlet will do the same
before voting.

In the statements against, opponents state that I685 requires people now
in prison for the possession of any illegal drugs be immediately released,
even if they had been previously convicted of felonies, including certain
rapes and assaults. They would be released into our communities with no
conditions. Not true. Read section 7, paragraph 2.

The statements against also say that anyone can possess and use street
narcotics with only the recommendation of a doctor. Please read section 6,
paragraph 2 for clarification.

Opponents say possession of street narcotics would be a crime without
punishment. Not true. See section 9 on page 30.

Section 8 on page 30 is a most important section. It protects us from those
we need to fear. Who knows how many lives can be saved by treating
addiction instead of trying to punish it. Obviously, punishment is not
working. I'd much rather my tax money go to doctors, nurses, counselors,
etc. to try and help these people become productive, rather than see it go
to jails, prisons, and all the personnel necessary to run them.

Perhaps with this initiative, prison overcrowding will lessen, recidivism
will decrease and those who actually pose a threat to us can be kept where
they belong, which is behind bars.

Shirley J. Morganti
Deer Park, WA