Chemical Dependency Counselor Practice Exam

The correct answer reflects the significant disparity in sentencing established by the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986 between crack cocaine and powder cocaine. This legislation established a sentencing ratio of 100:1, meaning that a person convicted of possessing or distributing crack cocaine would receive a sentence that was 100 times harsher than that for the same amount of powder cocaine.

This disparity has been widely criticized for contributing to issues of racial inequity in the criminal justice system, as the use of crack cocaine was more prevalent in marginalized communities, whereas powder cocaine was more commonly associated with affluent and predominantly white populations. The 100:1 ratio resulted in disproportionately long sentences for individuals convicted of crack offenses compared to those convicted of powder cocaine offenses, leading to significant social and legal implications that continue to be discussed and addressed in reforms. Understanding this ratio is critical for anyone studying chemical dependency and its intersection with law and social justice.