Ten Drug and Alcohol Policies That Save Lives

In every community, local leaders are grappling with problems caused by drug and alcohol use. Everyone wants to know: What really works? Which public policies are most effective in preventing and treating these problems? How can we save lives?

These questions are especially important for elected officials. But many politicians call for policies that won't work, while few even know that proven strategies exist. Every candidate for public office ought to know that there are better ways to prevent alcohol and drug problems than punishing people who have a disease.

Join Together has created a new publication that identifies proven strategies that every policymaker should know about. Ten Drug and Alcohol Policies That Will Save Lives draws on strong scientific research to make a concise and persuasive case for policy measures that are proven to have a positive effect. These includeincreasing alcohol taxes; requiring insurance coverage for the treatment of drug and alcohol problems on par with other diseases; supporting the use of effective addiction medications; screening routinely for alcohol and drug problems in every primary care and emergency room visit; requiring effective treatment and supervised aftercare instead of incarceration for nonviolent offenders. The policy proposals in this document are backed by research and supported by the public, which has shown great common sense on issues like restricting beer and other alcohol advertising targeted at children, and favoring treatment over jail for non-violent alcohol and other drug users.

The document is being distributed to all state and federal candidates running for Congress, governor, state legislator and other statewide elected offices. Individuals and organizations across the country have contributed to help print and mail 15,000 copies to reach every candidate, regardless of political affiliation. All candidates will receive the mailing before Election Day.

In addition, organizations and community leaders in Missouri, New Hampshire, Texas and other locations are downloading the document to distribute locally at candidate forums and events. "Together, we will educate the candidates about sensible measures that really make a difference," said David Rosenbloom, director of Join Together.