Drugs

[Angrboda]

I'm generally not opposed to drugs which, in general use, do not lead to behaviors which are destructive of the person's ability to live a full and productive life, or those around them. I think there is an argument for tightly regulating the use of highly addictive substances like meth and heroin, though the Portugal experiment certainly gives one pause. Sadly, two of the most destructive drugs in need of tighter regulation are alcohol and nicotine, and more stringent regulation of them is simply not going to happen. Anybody who drives drunk or commits a crime while intoxicated should be punished severely. In the case of driving while intoxicated, driving privileges except as necessary for working (if at all) should be suspended for life. There is no excuse for not increasing regulation of alcohol and penalties for irresponsible use given the amount of harm involved. And tobacco likewise; age to smoke should be gradually raised, and smoking or possession while underage should be punished severely.