DRUG POLICY ABUSE

Apparently the DEA is using the RAVE Act to target political groups that
they don't like. (Re: "Don't Say We Didn't Warn You," In case you missed
it, June 21.) Drug use occurs everyday at concerts and other events around
the country. It is a miscarriage of justice that the DEA would use the law
to only target events that advocate for changes in drug policy.

It's abhorrent that American taxpayers' money is being used to stifle free
speech and political activity. Regardless, the RAVE Act does nothing to
reduce the harms associated with substance abuse. It only puts youth at
greater danger by holding event organizers negligent for adopting effective
harm reduction techniques, like providing water or "chill out" rooms where
dancers can relax.

The RAVE Act should be repealed immediately, and the DEA's budget should be
reduced by the amount it spent on this political charade.

Tom Angell /Board of Directors, Students for Sensible Drug Policy