Pubdate: Wed, 20 Apr 2005
Source: Decatur Daily (AL)
Copyright: 2005 The Decatur Daily
Contact:  http://www.decaturdaily.com/decaturdaily/index.shtml
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/696
Author: Christopher Largen
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?143 (Hepatitis)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/meth.htm (Methamphetamine)

LEGALIZE, REGULATE METHAMPHETAMINES

There is a solution to the lab explosions, child exposure, high profits, 
theft, disease and guns associated with methamphetamine. We could 
centralize and regulate meth production and distribution in well-secured, 
quality-controlled government facilities where addicts would register 
before being administered a standardized dosage of pharmaceutical-grade 
meth, with medical supervision, without the use of dirty needles. Addicts 
would also receive information about the risks of meth use, along with 
on-the-spot access to treatment resources. This trailblazing strategy is 
currently being used by several nations in Europe with a positive outcome.

Some citizens might think this approach is radical, but it would remove the 
economic incentive from the producers and dealers of illegal meth. It would 
reduce the spread of AIDS and hepatitis. It would ensure that addicts 
aren't committing crimes of robbery and violence to pay the inflated black 
market prices imposed by the mobsters. It would eliminate the exploding 
meth labs. And it would take the meth off the streets, where children have 
easy access to the substance.

Since we can't even keep drugs out of our schools and prisons, perhaps the 
Drug Enforcement Administration should stop ensuring the mobsters get rich.

Christopher Largen, Denton, Texas
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MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager