LESS HARMFUL THAN PROHIBITION

Regarding Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Control
spokesman Mark Woodward's listing of the horrible things he says
would happen if drugs were legalized ( Your Views, June 30 ): First,
there wouldn't be drug dealers and meth labs in neighborhoods
anymore. People would simply go to the store and buy their drugs
like they do alcohol and tobacco. Next, drug legalization would no
more legally allow people to "drive a school bus, a train, or fly an
aircraft" than legalized alcohol allows drunks to do so now. As for
mechanics, electricians and doctors working while under the influence
of drugs, I sure hope not. Just like I hope they -- and police
officers, firefighters, day-care workers, bulldozer operators and
lawmakers -- haven't slugged down a six-pack before heading to their
jobs. Finally, Mr. Woodward, as someone who favors drug
legalization, I'd be happy to explain to children or adults why drug
decriminalization would do far less harm than prohibition. You name
the time and place.

Clark Duffe

Edmond