Study Switzerland's Drug Program

Dear Editor,
    If the goal is to reduce the impact of addictive drugs – and their prohibition – we should study Switzerland's heroin-assisted treatment program. It more than pays for itself in reduced criminal justice costs and allows addicts to work and pay taxes. It began in 1994 as Zurich's reaction to their infamous "needle park" and has spread to all 26 cantons, now includes other addictive drugs, and has treatment centers located in all but the smallest towns. It includes pure, low-cost drugs; clean needles; counseling; and, if requested, treatment. The Swiss have voted for it in repeated referendums. If the conservative Swiss can do it, we Americans can do it too.