Drug consumption and alcohol abuse are causing enormous problems, including homelessness, violence, corruption, economic costs, and the spread of AIDS. A national response is needed and should involve direct participation by citizens, families, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and governments at all levels. State governments must have a central role. Most States already have drug-free workplace policies, drug-free schools and school zones, drug reduction in public housing, outreach to at-risk youth, drug testing and treatment for State employees, and State laws on specific topics. Future needs include a review of criminal justice resources to ensure swift and certain punishment, expansion and evaluation of drug treatment programs, cooperative intergovernmental efforts, and school reform efforts. Drug legalization is inappropriate because treatment alone cannot reduce demand, selective legalization will lead to criminal marketing of higher-intensity versions, and those at risk would be placed at even greater risk. Two references