Rod Grams: “I rise in support of the ``Powder Cocaine Sentencing Act of 1999'' sponsored by Senator Spence Abraham of Michigan. I am…”

“I rise in support of the ``Powder Cocaine Sentencing Act of 1999'' sponsored by Senator Spence Abraham of Michigan. I am proud to be an original cosponsor of this important legislation that will toughen federal policy toward powder cocaine dealers. As we begin the legislative business of the Senate this year, we must strengthen our efforts to stop illegal drug use and drug-related crime and violence. We must fulfill our moral obligation to communicate the dangers and consequences of illegal drug use. Continuing our fight against the threat of drug abuse is one of the most important contributions the 106th Congress can make toward providing a promising future for the young people of America. Under current law, a dealer must distribute 500 grams of powder cocaine to qualify for a 5-year mandatory minimum prison sentence, and distribute 5 grams of crack cocaine for that offense. These sentencing guidelines result in a 100-to-1 quantity ratio between powder and more severe crack cocaine distribution sentences. This disparity has caused a great deal of concern among members of Congress and the administration.”