NCJ Number
128527
Journal
Journal of State Government Volume: 63 Issue: 2 Dated: special issue (April-June 1990) Pages: 37-39
Date Published
1990
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Persistence and coordinated efforts by policymakers and law enforcement officials at all levels are needed to achieve a lasting solution to the drug problem.
Abstract
A program emphasizing drug education, treatment, and law enforcement is needed to win the war against drug trafficking and abuse. The most important program component is education of drug users and potential users as to the real effects of drugs. Schools have been doing a more effective job of drug education but must do better. Drug education should extend to the lowest grades and should be available universally. Law enforcement officers and community resources should be used to a greater degree in classrooms. Parents need to know how to recognize potential or real drug problems and how to intervene effectively. They also need to know how they can take preventive action and encourage their children to participate in activities that generate a feeling of self-worth. Drug treatment is an essential element of an effective drug control strategy. Youth and inmates should receive first priority for drug treatment funding. Effective law enforcement is another essential component of the drug war. Drug interdiction by the Federal government is important, as well as coordinated efforts by Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies. Since local law enforcement agencies seem to have the greatest problem in generating assets for enforcement, States should consider ways to pass funding to cities, counties, and other local government agencies. Legalization is not viewed as a solution to the drug problem.