THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON July 8, 1988 Dear Bill: te- eet-s \our I have just received a briefing from the Chairman of the National Drug Policy Board on the Board's report on the drug problem plaguing America. I have enclosed the Board's recommendations and other related materials for your review. The problem of illegal drug use touches the lives of all of us, in our workplaces, our schools, and our homes. The unprecedented efforts of the past 7 years to fight illegal drug use and trafficking are beginning to pay off. We have expanded treatment programs for drug users, strengthened drug law enforcement, and improved international cooperation to stop the production and transportation of drugs. No-nonsense judges are enforcing stricter penalties for drug dealers; record amounts of illegal drugs are being seized; and cocaine use by high school students is beginning to decline, while marijuana use by these young people continues to fall. But there is still much more we can do. The National Drug Policy Board's comprehensive review of the drug problem produced a set of recommendations that, when implemented, will help dramatically in the fight against illegal drugs. You can help to implement some of the recommendations in State and local government and encourage those in the private sector to do so as well. I have also asked business and opinion leaders to consider pertinent recommendations. On May 18, I called on the Congress to join with me in the fight against illegal drugs. I asked that leaders in the Congress from both parties be appointed to work with my representatives in a special Executive-Legislative Task Force to produce legislative initiatives to advance us toward a drug-free America. I have appointed my representatives to this Task Force as have the Republican leaders of the Senate and House. As soon as the Democrat leadership names representatives, the Task Force will be ready to hold its first "summit meeting" to develop a legislative package that can be enacted quickly. By working together we can have a drug-free America. Thank you for your continuing support. Sincerely, The Honorable William P. Clements Governor of Texas Austin, Texas 78711
