ILLEGAL DRUGS: WHERE WE STAND AND WHAT WE CAN DO (FROM DRUGS, LAW AND THE STATE, 1992, P 153-165, HAROLD H. TRAVER AND MARK S. GAYLOR, EDS. -- SEE NCJ-143011)

• NCJ Number: 143020
• Author(s): J F Galliher
• Date Published: 1992
• Length: 13 pages
• Sale Source: Transaction Publishers
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Some practical, reasoned, and gradual steps that the U.S. Government can take to deal with drug abuse are proposed in the context of relevant political and cultural factors.

Abstract

The chapter discusses the drug problems of alcohol, tobacco, amphetamines and barbiturates, marijuana, heroin, cocaine and "crack" and also summarizes available law enforcement alternatives. Many drug control policies prove counterproductive. The most feasible strategy may be a gradual decriminalization, using only civil fines for controls, followed by legalization. After each change is implemented, usage levels could be monitored. Efforts may be made as part of a Federal program to involve specific States by modifying State laws on a trial basis in return for special Federal funds to be used for medical treatment and education. 34 references