Memorandum Urging
Support of Federal Initiatives for a Drug-Free
Memorandum
for All Executive Branch Employees
As
you know, I recently approved several new initiatives with an overriding goal
of a drug-free
As
members of the Nation's largest work force, you can continue to set an example
for other American workers. I know an overwhelming majority of Federal
employees have never had trouble with illegal drugs, but our goal is a safe and
drug-free workplace for all employees and the American public. Certainly the
issue of drug testing has caused some concern, but I want to assure you that my
Executive Order contains provisions to ensure that any testing program will be
fair and will protect your rights as citizens.
Our
intention is not to punish users of illegal drugs, but to help rehabilitate
them. When you see colleagues or friends struggling with a drug problem,
encourage them to seek help from your Employee Assistance Program or from some
other organization or person skilled in drug counseling and treatment. Together
we can send a message that illegal drug use in every office, shop, and
laboratory simply will not be tolerated. The combined efforts of all of us will
make it easier for Federal as well as private sector employees to ``Just Say
No.''
Your
efforts to increase public awareness and prevention of drug abuse are also
crucial. Illegal drug use is not a ``victimless crime,'' nor is it glamorous or
a matter of personal choice. Drug abuse victimizes everyone in productive time
lost, lives shattered, and families and communities torn apart. We must send
this message beyond the workplace to friends and neighbors and especially to
our young people.
I
have called upon you many times in the past, and your support and dedication
have already helped us achieve so much. Now I am asking you to get personally
involved in ridding our offices, schools, homes, and communities of drugs and
making them better places to live and work. I know I can count on your personal
help.
Ronald
Reagan
Note:
The memorandum was released by the Office of the Press Secretary on October 6.