BUSH BUDGET CUTS DRUG REHAB FUNDS

In response to the Feb. 3 editorial about the MHS Macohi article
describing a teen's drug use, I want to extend your thoughts, and the
readers', on this extremely serious concern. Writing realistic
articles about student drug use will help those in denial, somewhat,
but let's also be realistic about how our state perceives the drug
problem. Gov. Jeb Bush's proposed budget drastically reduces funds for
drug rehabilitation and first-offender programs. Does he think the
schools will be able to take up the slack and rehabilitate addicted
teens? Many youths and first offenders will go by the wayside without
help for their drug habits, if the governor has his way. More and more
teen drug concerns will be a major factor in Manatee schools' dropout
statistics, skipping, low academic performances, and crime issues.

Another thought: Will the governor's daughter Noelle be a statistic of
the cuts in drug rehab funding? Think again.

LYNN ARAGON
Bradenton