DRUG PROVISION IS WRONG

Marcia O'Brien's Apr. 16th editorial on the Higher Education Act's denial
of student loans to youth convicted of drug offenses was right on
target. Anyone born into a wealthy family need not fear the impact of
HEA. Instead of empowering at-risk students with a college degree, HEA
limits career opportunities and increases the likelihood that those
affected will resort to crime. Speaking of crime, convicted rapists and
murders are still eligible for federal student loans.

Most students outgrow their youthful indiscretions involving illicit
drugs. An arrest and criminal record, on the other hand, can be
life-shattering. After admitting to smoking pot (but not inhaling), former
President Bill Clinton opened himself up to "soft on drugs" criticism. And
thousands of Americans have paid the price in the form of shattered
lives. More Americans went to prison or jail during the Clinton
administration than during any past administration.

As an admitted former drinker and alleged illicit drug user, President
George W. Bush is also politically vulnerable when it comes to drugs. While
youthful indiscretions didn't stop Clinton or Bush from assuming leadership
positions, an arrest surely would have. The short-term health effects of
marijuana are inconsequential compared to the long-term effects of criminal
records. Drug abuse is bad, but the zero tolerance drug war is worse.

Robert Sharpe

Program Officer

Drug Policy Alliance