ZERO TOLERANCE SLOWS ABUSE

In response to the news article, "Schools target drug use" (April 9):

So-called anonymous surveys that rely on the self-reporting of illegal drug
use are virtually worthless in this age of zero tolerance. Teenagers know
that honesty could very well result in drug-sniffing dogs, locker searches
and mass arrests. Most teenagers outgrow their youthful indiscretions
involving 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 did not 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

Washington, D.C.