NCJ Number
158382
Date Published
1989
Length
15 pages
Annotation
Current discussions about drug policies tend to focus on the degree of priority assigned to the problem, the level of resources devoted, the emphasis given to each component of the antidrug strategy, and the effectiveness of policy implementation.
Abstract
Methods of preventing the nonmedical use of addictive drugs has been a public policy concern for at least a century. The Federal Government has assumed a large part of the responsibility for drug control. Historically based on a decision to restrict availability through close regulation, including selective prohibition, the current Federal antidrug strategy relies on activities and programs in five major areas. These are (1) regulation and other drug law enforcement efforts; (2) support for international control and for control efforts of individual drug-producing and drug transit countries; (3) education and other drug prevention activities; (4) drug treatment and rehabilitation; and (5) research on drugs, drug dependency, and prevention and treatment methods. Although the basic policy of restriction has been criticized, it seems to have general public support. A renewed discussion of the merits of legalization or decriminalization has not yet been significantly reflected in Congressional concerns. The first session of the 100th Congress focused on budget levels and general oversight, while the second session focused on a new omnibus bill that added funding and established new penalties for drug law offenses. Lists of Federal legislation, reports, and additional readings