LEGALIZING DRUGS COULD SOLVE PROBLEMS

I never have and never will use "recreational" drugs like marijuana,
heroin, opium, cocaine, methamphetamines, etc. I've long agreed these
should be outlawed, but I've changed my mind because such drugs remain
readily available despite drug busts, fines and jail time.

It's a modern failed prohibition like the Volstead Act which tried in vain
to eliminate alcohol use, and like banning tobacco advertising which, by
and large, has failed to curb smoking. In fact, the federal government is
scared to death of losing tobacco and alcohol revenues from overtaxation of
both.

If drugs were sold legally, it would largely eliminate drug wars, drive-by
shootings and killings over drug deals gone bad, and the big expense - and
dangers to lawmen - of hunting down drug dealers (and the federal
government would love the tax revenue).

I doubt if legalization would cause drug use to go up appreciably,
considering how freely drugs are illegally used now.

The greatest deterrent, of course, would be loving, caring, responsible,
happily married parents as the greatest example for frustrated, unhappy
children. My favorite "drug" is fishing on beautiful, natural streams and
lakes.

J.A. James, Monroe