Rep. Ron Paul (R-Texas) asked the GAO to investigate letters written by ONDCP Deputy Director Scott Burns to local prosecutors. The letters strongly reminded prosecutors of their role in "fighting the normalization of marijuana."

Medical-marijuana advocates said the letter contained inaccurate information, such as "marijuana and violence are linked" and "no credible research suggests" that marijuana has medical uses.

Paul asked the GAO to determine whether the letter violated the ban on using taxpayer funds for "publicity and propaganda" and its own position that "the government should not disseminate misleading information."

In its response, the GAO said, "Even though the statements may have been controversial, they were made within the context of ONDCP's statutory responsibilities, which include taking such actions as necessary to oppose efforts to legalize certain substances."

"It is unfortunate, although not surprising, that the GAO counsel believes the ONDCP acts within its bounds when it engages in political action at taxpayer expense," said Paul. "Imagine the outcry if IRS staff traveled the country arguing against tax cuts at the state level. Drug laws, like virtually all criminal laws, are wholly the province of states. Neither Congress nor any administration had the authority to create and fund a federal drug-war cheerleading agency."

COMMENTS ON THIS ARTICLE:

Posted by Donald B. Parsons on 02 Mar 08 10:27 AM EST

SHAME on the ONDCP for its lies and the GAO for assisting them in thier lies.

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