METH LATEST SCARE TACTIC

The Jan 14 editorial, "Time to nip meth problem in the bud," stated we
need more legislation enacted to fight methamphatamine use.

Before we pass more laws and spend more money, let's look at some
facts. Amphetamines were legal over the counter without a prescription
until 1954. The Apollo 13 astronauts were ordered to take amphetamines
during their mission. The military used to give amphetamines to air
crews to help them fight fatigue. Truckers would take them on long
hauls. So let's not exaggerate the dangers of amphetamines.

People are currently forced into treatment, not because they're
addicted, but because of the drug's current legal status. Therefore,
drug treatment centers stand to profit from expanding the drug war.

I'm not saying amphetamines are a benign substance. I'm saying let's
put aside the boogie man stories and look at this situation logically
before we rush into expanding police power beyond a reasonable limit
and have the state Legislature spend money it doesn't have.

RANDY VIZYAK