House Bill Would Expand Powers of Drug Czar June 2, 2003
News Summary
A bill introduced by Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives would give U.S. drug czar John Walters expanded powers to lobby voters over drug-related legislation and plebecites, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported May 23.The bill to reauthorize the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy would allow the drug czar to spend time and taxpayers' money to fight state efforts to ease drug laws. A provision allows the government to place ads to influence state ballot initiatives on drug legalization, decriminalization and medical marijuana.
The measure also would allow the federal government to withhold anti-drug funds from states that pass medical-marijuana laws.
The legislation also authorizes $1 billion for an anti-drug advertising campaign over the next five years.
"You are talking about taxpayer money being used to interfere in state and local elections," said Bill Piper, associate director of national affairs for the Drug Policy Alliance.
The measure, which is in the House Government Reform Committee, is opposed by House Democrats.
Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.) said the bill allows "government interference in a public debate."
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