FIGHTING METH

The Target discount-store chain has taken a bold, appropriate step to
combat illegal drug labs. Let's hope other retailers take notice.

Last week, Target decided it would move certain cold medicines off its
shelves and behind the pharmacist's counter. The medications still
will be available without a prescription, but customers will have to
sign for them.

Why the added trouble for shoppers? Because too often, cold tablets
containing pseudoephedrine are being used to cook up illegal
methamphetamines, highly addictive drugs. It's thought that those who
make the drugs will be leery about signing.

Target is putting itself at a competitive disadvantage; shoppers tend
to buy less of a product when they face a bigger hassle to get it. But
illegal meth labs are growing greatly in number; the nation is just
beginning to grapple with this increasing problem.

Target's move shows a laudable view of its responsibility - not just
to make money, but to make sure that its policies meet community needs.

We hope other retailers, large and small, will follow Target's
example, and help cut off the supply that is feeding this dangerous
drug's growth.