DECRIMINALIZING DRUGS WOULD BE BENEFICIAL

Robert Lesselle's letter of Oct. 19 was right down the middle, as we say in
golf. Decriminalization of drugs would yield the greatest benefit to our
nation since the repeal of prohibition. This act of our government is long
overdue.

The list of benefits of decriminalization is long, and these examples are a
minute sample of those benefits: Drastic reduction of prison populations
nationwide. Drug cartels would be put out of business. Incentives to recruit
our young as drug addicts would vanish. All the millions, perhaps billions,
spent to fight this futile war (on drugs) could be allocated to something
useful. I think we could all add to this list.

Decriminalization is but the first step that should be taken. Legalization
would yield benefits beyond those previously mentioned. A doctor should be
permitted to tell you what you need and you just go buy it. It is no one's
business what you put in your body, least of all your government.

James M. Young, Reno (via e-mail)