WINNING DRUG WAR REQUIRES SETTING ASIDE OUR ARMS

For about 40 years since the so-called "war on drugs" began, we have
spent untold billions of dollars trying to stop the influx of illegal
drugs into our country, and additional billions incarcerating
offenders. We have made it a trillion-dollar business worldwide as
others from outside fall over themselves to satisfy the craving of
American addicts. Afghanistan, from which the 9/11 attack on us
originated, is brimming over with drugs bound for our shores.

It's time to change direction and take another tack. The only reason
drugs are pouring into this country is because of the huge profits to
be made from their sale. If we take the profit motive out of the
equation, the supply will dry up. How can we do this? Legalize all
drugs; open federal drug outlets where present addicts can get their
supply at little cost (drugs are cheap when legal); and institute
programs at these locations to educate and give rehabilitation
services to help addicts kick their habit.

For a small fraction of the money we spend each year, we will be on
the road to a cleaner society and in one generation will see a major
drop in drug use. The jails will empty out, freeing up additional
space and funds.

Richard Susskind, O.D.

Sandwich