College students all across the country are feeling the pinch as lawmakers and administrators tighten the reins when it comes to issues like alcohol and drug use. The federal government's attempt in October, though, may be just the roadblock needed to stop financially dependent, irresponsible students right in their tracks. The Higher Education Act, which became law this past October, includes a provision that prohibits those convicted of possession or sale of a controlled substance from receiving federal financial aid. Those to whom this act applies would be ineligible for aid for at least one year. The Drug Reform Coordination Network is coordinating staunch opposition to the clause because of its supposed racial bias.
College students have a right to be independent, but only within the conditions of the law.
Race aside, those who choose to break the rules and regulations that govern our land should not reap the benefits of a system that expects them to display a little citizenship now and then. Those to whom the federal government has given an opportunity to attend college should be held to a higher standard than the majority of today's youth. A primary stipulation for receiving federal financial aid should be following the laws of the same government that provides for their education. The HEA provision also has come under scrutiny due to racial implications it may have among college and university students. He mentioned statistics showing that blacks comprise 12 percent of the nation's population and 13 percent of the nation's drug users, as well as 55 percent of the nation's drug convictions.