The Nation : President Signs Drug Bill

President Reagan, declaring a “major victory” in the battle against drugs, signed into law the most sweeping anti-drug program ever passed by Congress. “Our goal in this crusade is nothing less than a drug-free generation,” Reagan said as he signed the $1.7-billion measure that doubles the federal government’s budget for pursuing drug dealers and smugglers and stiffens penalties for traffickers. Reagan also saluted his wife, Nancy, for having “mobilized the American people” with her five-year effort against drug abuse among children. “Today marks a major victory in our crusade against drugs,” Reagan said. “The American people want their government to get tough and go on the offensive.”