Further, drug policies in the United States have failed to significantly affect the prevalence or the deleterious effects of substance abuse disorders. Crime, violence, family disruption, and economic displacement are felt most acutely by already impoverished and disadvantaged communities. The need for a public health approach to substance abuse disorders, as opposed to a law enforcement solution, is discussed. Special attention is paid to compulsory drug treatment approaches in the context of their history and effectiveness. Positive and negative aspects of compulsory treatment approaches are summarized, and the expanded use of treatment options for individuals involved with the criminal justice system is examined. 39 references