Harrison Narcotics Tax Act

The Harrison Narcotics Tax Act was enstated to impose taxes on the sale, distribution, manufacturing, importation and distribution of cocoa leaves, opium, and any form of products originating from either. The law did not prohibit the use or possession of cocoa or opium, usually used as heroin or cocaine, it just prohibited them from being profited on without also paying a portion to government tax.

History

The act was considered by congress in 1914, to control the production and distribution of the drugs derived from cocoa and opium. The act went into effect in 1915, despite much controversy over the new taxes and restrictions on the amount that could be dispersed.

Misinterpretation Of The Act

One part of the Harrison Narcotics Tax Act stated, "Nothing contained in this section shall apply... to the dispensing or distribution of any of the aforesaid drugs to a patient by a physician, dentist, or veterinary surgeon registered under this Act in the course of his professional practice only." As addiction was not yet recognized as a disease, many physicians were fined or imprisoned for prescribing drugs to addicts.

Changes To The Act

The continued confusion and misinterpretation of the law lead to nervous healthcare professionals, desperate addicts, black markets for drugs, increased crime and ruined families. Congress decided to add a law to the act, prohibiting the importation of heroin. This only strengthened its sale on the black market.

Desperate Measures Of Illegal Activity

With strict rules about the distruibution of narcotics, addicts were desperate to obtain the drugs any way they could. Most of the ways of obtaining the drugs were violent and immoral. The crime rate rose quickly, and so did the need for law enforcement officers.

Traces Of The Act That Are Seen Today

The warning label, "Warning: May be habit forming," on addictive medications is a direct result of the Harrison Narcotics Tax Act.

References

• Schaffer Library of Drug Policy