The care of human life and happiness, and not their destruction, is the first and only legitimate object of good government. An Overview he first duty of government is to protect its citizens.
Illegal drugs constitute one such threat.
Toxic, addictive substances present a hazard to society as a whole. Like a corrosive, insidious cancer, drug abuse diminishes the potential of our citizens for full growth and development. The traditions of American government and democracy affirm self-determination and freedom. While government must minimize interference in the private lives of citizens, it cannot deny security to individuals and the collective culture the people uphold. Drug abuse and its consequences destroy personal liberty and the well-being of communities.