Pubdate: Thu,  3 Jan 2002
Source: Athens News, The (OH)
Copyright: 2002, Athens News
Contact:  http://www.athensnews.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1603
Author: Stephen Heath

UNDERHANDED EFFORTS USED TO SUBVERT DRUG TREATMENT INITIATIVES

Here in Florida we watch with interest the attempt by Ohio citizens to 
change current drug policy to one that favors health-care alternatives over 
strict criminal sanctions. This over the overt and also covert opposition 
of Gov. Taft.

In our own state, Gov. Jeb Bush is using similar methods, along with some 
of America's most ardent drug warriors, to derail a similar initiative. The 
same arguments are put forth, including the astounding suggestion that this 
is simply a "ploy" that will lead "to the full legalization of ALL drugs."

Statements like these from Bush and Taft are patently absurd since they 
imply that a majority of citizens and/or legislators favor full 
legalization. But absurdity has never been a problem for Bush, and I doubt 
it has been for your own governor.

Maybe the politicians are required to adhere to the party line of strong 
criminal sanctions because law enforcement, customs, the prison and 
military-industrial complex, the drug-testing industry, the commercial 
"drug treatment" industry, the DEA, the politicians themselves et al can't 
live without the budget justification, not to mention the invisible 
profits, bribery, corruption and forfeiture benefits that traditional drug 
prohibition affords them.

Stephen Heath

Drug Policy Forum of Florida
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MAP posted-by: Beth