DRUG PROHIBITION ADDS TO THE PROBLEM

Editor,

This is in response to the March 28 editorial, "Methamphetamines: Popular drug
poses new problems for police agencies."

Michigan's hazardous methamphetamine labs are reminiscent of the
deadly exploding liquor stills that sprung up throughout the nation
during alcohol prohibition. Throwing more money at the problem is no
solution.

Forcibly limiting the supply of illegal drugs while demand remains
constant only increases the profitability of drug trafficking. In
terms of addictive drugs like meth, a spike in street prices leads
desperate addicts to increase criminal activity to feed desperate
habits. The drug war doesn't fight crime, it fuels crime.

Taxing and regulating marijuana, the most popular illicit drug, is a
cost-effective alternative to the $50 billion drug war. There is a big
difference between condoning marijuana use and protecting children
from drugs. Decriminalization acknowledges the social reality of
marijuana use and frees users from the stigma of life-shattering
criminal records.

What's really needed is a regulated market with age controls.

Right now kids have an easier time buying pot than beer. Separating
the hard and soft drug markets is critical.

Marijuana may be relatively harmless compared to legal alcohol, but
marijuana prohibition is deadly.

As long as marijuana distribution remains in the hands of organized
crime, consumers will continue to come into contact with hard drugs.

Current drug policy is a gateway policy.

Robert Sharpe

Program Officer

Drug Policy Alliance

Washington, D.C.