The War on Drugs inflicts exorbitant costs on American citizens to little avail. Research demonstrates that the American system of classifications, laws and treatment of drug addicts is outdated and ineffective. The American government can lower incarceration costs and potentially increase tax revenues by changing its approach and striving towards one that reflects modern society.
This can be done in a few ways:
- Reevaluate the substance classification of marijuana so that it may be legalized & taxed for recreational use
- Research alternatives to the current fear-based drug education campaigns that are more effective for long term prevention
- Stop incarceration for small possession charges of more harmful narcotics and start therapy programs