Pubdate: Sun, 21 Jul 2002
Source: Blade, The (OH)
Copyright: 2002 The Blade
Contact:  http://www.toledoblade.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/48
Author: Edward J. Orlett
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v02/n1300/a06.html
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?206 (Ohio Campaign for New Drug Policies)

DRUGS: TREATMENT BETTER THAN JAIL TIME

The Blade's July 14 editorial on the Ohio Drug Treatment Initiative sums up 
opponents' arguments against it. Readers will want to consider information 
in support of this issue also.

The initiative would provide treatment instead of prosecution or jail time 
for non-violent, first-or second-time drug possession offenders only. Drug 
traffickers, violent offenders, and drivers-under-the-influence would not 
be eligible.

Treatment is not required for those who reject it or screw up. They would 
go to jail just the same as they do now. Judges are given that authority, 
contrary to what opponents claim. A copy of the initiative can be found at 
www.ohiodrugreform.org for verification.

Drug treatment instead of prison will save money. Prison costs six times 
the cost of treatment for a year in Ohio. Thousands of young Ohioans get a 
"scarlet F" (felony) record for drug possession. This disqualifies them for 
student loans and many job opportunities.

This initiative has nothing to do with legalizing or decriminalizing 
marijuana or any other drug. What is proposed is the logical extension and 
expansion of the present drug court system. Only half, or 24, of Ohio's 
drug courts process adult felony offenders. These courts only serve a total 
of about 1,500 of the 6,000 Ohioans charged with felony drug possession 
each year.

The initiative is a constitutional amendment as any Ohio ballot issue that 
appropriates money must be. Ohio voters have passed 18 previous 
appropriation amendments to address other social problems.

Why not an amendment for this important social need?

Legislation similar to this initiative has not received a hearing in Ohio. 
A ballot issue - with funding - is the only way to address Ohio's drug 
problems.

EDWARD J. ORLETT

Director, Ohio Campaign For New Drug Policies, Columbus
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MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager