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What If Controlled Drugs Were Made Legally Available?

NCJ Number
135852
Date Published
1990
Length
52 pages
Annotation
The Maryland Governor's Executive Advisory Committee studied the issue of decriminalization or legalization of illicit drugs.
Abstract
This pamphlet analyzes the possibility of legalization in terms of its impact on law enforcement, incidence of drug abuse, and social economic costs. The pamphlet also describes the effects of the various classes of illicit drugs including stimulants, cannabis, depressants, narcotics, and hallucinogens. The Council concludes that the State and the country cannot afford the consequences of decriminalization or legalization of illicit drugs because the government has a responsibility to protect its citizens from dangers that threaten the fabric of society. Current efforts directed at treatment, rehabilitation, and education should continue to be emphasized and integrated into an overall effort to reduce and eliminate illicit drug demand. Strong law enforcement efforts must also be a component of this campaign.

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