Pubdate: Thu, 16 Oct 2003 Source: Kansas City Star (MO) Copyright: 2003 The Kansas City Star Contact: http://www.kcstar.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/221 Author: Jeff Buckley Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v03/n1530/a08.html Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization) ILLEGAL DRUGS Michelle Finnerty, I too am fed up with people who say "we should lift the prohibition on drugs because drugs do not harm anyone." There is a far better reason to lift the prohibition: Because prohibition doesn't work. The examples you offer of the dangers of drugs (overdoses, abused and neglected children, etc.) are proof. All of these things happen far too frequently in spite of stringent anti-drug laws. Perhaps a better solution is to decriminalize recreational drug use, manufacture and possession. Then we can get down to the business of regulating it - something Americans are known for. (Ever hear of the multibillion-dollar liquor industry?) Is this a perfect solution? No. Just a better one. The billions that could be realized from a sin tax on recreational drugs would go a long way toward educating our kids about the evils of using drugs and alcohol. Jeff Buckley Raymore, MO - --- MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager