John, I agree completely, everyone should play by the rules; but, when the current president admits to cocaine use and is still elected - well what are our children to think. With this kind of example we can expect no better.

Oh MY GOD!!!! Must every letter be answered with "It's Bush's fault".

Of course, what could I expect. The letter did mention 2 democrats doing something questionable. What other response is there besides "It's Bush's fault".

I agree with Watt and Frank. So what if somebody screwed up and did drugs and got convicted. You could be talking about some kid who took their first hit off of a joint at the wrong time and got busted.

If that kid wants to better himself and make a new life for himself, what are we supposed to do? Say no?

I just think it is ironic how people get up on their high horses about other people's mistakes.

Why don't they drop financial aid for people with speeding tickets or other convictions while they are at it?

I am in favor of this bill, and I hope it passes. People deserve 2nd chances. Back in the 60's & 70's how many of you were without sin and can throw stones at kids who smoke pot? I'm guessing not many. If you were one of the "lucky" ones, and did not get caught, then you either snitched others out, or were just lucky. A conviction for posession of marijuana is not a reason to deny a kid a 2nd chance at life, if the kid wants it.

They need to pass a bill withholding federal aid from everybody, not just drug "offenders." I'm tired of the government stealing my money, giving someone a loan, and making interest on the money they stole from me.

Imagine what kind of a jail sentence I'd get for doing that. But it's ok for the government to do it.

Yellowdog: "when the current president admits to cocaine use and is still elected - well what are our children to think".

Does Bush have a conviction for cocaine use? Has he used cocaine in office?

While we are out saving the children, please tell me what our children to are to think when a president has extramarital sex (even though his definition said it wasn't sex, laugh, giggle, snort!) in the "Oral" office and then lies about it under oath to the entire country?

Anyway, I am for giving people a 2nd chance, but I would add conditions. Something like you can get Federal aid, but would be subject to random testing. That would prevent people from continuing their habit. One positive test and you are out.

Noooo Dan, stay out of people's personal spaces ie: urine. I believe that is just one of the great impositions that the government has on us today!
I see your point, Dan, but honey, lets be realistic, giving the government your personal body fluid to analyze however they want to? Come ON. We MUST draw a line SOMEWHERE.
If the kids make good grades in school, how bout that? Base it on performance, not what "could be" in their personal body fluid.

Please provide evidence that our President admitted to Cocaine use. I don't remember that being a hot campaign topic.

Lilly: "Noooo Dan, stay out of people's personal spaces ie: urine. I believe that is just one of the great impositions that the government has on us today!"

Hey Lilly, I happen to know a whole lot about drug screening. The Department of Transportation (DOT) has required drug and alcohol testing since 1989 for truck drivers, commercial pilots, railroads, and public transit. It kinda makes me feel good when I hop on a flight or an 80,000 lb truck is 30 feet behind me to know the operator of the aircraft or truck is not drunk or on drugs. You are not in favor of that? That is, after all, the goverment mandating the analysis of body fluids for drugs and breath for alcohol.

As for students, drug testing was ruled ok by the Supreme Court a year or two ago. I firmly believe that if you are receiving federal funds for education you should not be a drug user, after all, it's illegal.

Dear Dan,
I still stand by my position. If you really believe that people who use drugs should not recieve public money, then you need to figure out a way to rid the housing projects around the country! Lets drug test all elected officials, afterall, THEY too get public money. Furthermore, it is my opinion, that the DOT doesnt do such a bang up job at drug testing truck drivers. I was rear ended by an 18 wheeler as I sat minding my own business on my way to work on morning. To this day, I wonder what that guy was on. Other than my rear end.

Don't you guys find it a bit unsettling that we have support for a bill denying American kids a second chance in our educational system AND a bill to allow the children of illegal immigrants to attend state supported colleges at in-state rates (which the taxpayers will probably have to pick up)? American children vs children of illegal immigrants. We are indeed in big trouble.