The (Pub.L. No. 89-793) recognizes the fact that narcotic addicts, including those who violate Federal criminal laws, are medical problems and should receive treatment rather than mere punishment. The Narcotic Addict Rehabilitation Act established several different but related types of commitment procedures, all of which contain both institutional and aftercare provisions. Although this act remains in effect, due to lack of appropriation and other reasons it is not utilized to the extent to which it was in the years immediately following its enactment. Other programs are also available to addicted defendants who are sentenced under regular sentencing provisions.

[updated January 2020]