Pubdate: Wed, 23 Feb 2005
Source: Oklahoman, The (OK)
Copyright: 2005 The Oklahoma Publishing Co.
Contact:  http://www.oklahoman.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/318
Author: Howard J. Wooldridge
Note: Wooldridge is a former police officer and serves on the board of 
directors for the Law Enforcement Against Prohibition, a group of current 
and former members of law enforcement who oppose drug prohibition policies.

WRONG APPROACH

Regarding "Committee rejects tougher beer sales" (news story, Feb. 16):
Rep. Thad Balkman's bill to save lives by increasing penalties for
supplying alcohol to minors failed -- and rightfully so. If increased
penalties for supplying illegal drugs worked, Oklahoma would have become
drug-free 20 years ago. Balkman should introduce a bill that would actually
save lives and injury; namely, when a teen is dying of an alcohol or drug
overdose, make the call to 911 an arrest-free act, no matter who supplied
the drug or alcohol. Having cops and paramedics step over a dead body to
catch the drug supplier is a pro-death policy that no parent supports.

Howard J. Wooldridge, Norman
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MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager