Topic > Critical Issue of Drug Decriminalization

IndexIntroductionThe Concept of DecriminalizationArguments for DecriminalizationEconomic and Social ImplicationsRacial Disparities and Law EnforcementHealth and Education PerspectivesConclusionWorks CitedIntroductionDrug decriminalization is an issue that has received increased attention and media coverage due of its controversies. This is a critical topic not only for the United States but for the entire world, with some sectors of society believing that drugs should be decriminalized while governments have always been reluctant to take this step, with some countries such as Portugal they have resistance to decriminalize drugs. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The Concept of Decriminalization Drug decriminalization includes reducing drug control and regulation; it is also requested that the law ease the sanctions relating to drug use and possession. Drug decriminalization advocates want prison sentences for drug-related charges to be abolished, and illegal users will not receive criminal records when caught. The basic idea behind drug decriminalization is harm reduction. Arguments in favor of decriminalization I am of the opinion that drugs should be decriminalized. Drugs and their effects represent a problem for society because they are not legalized. Decriminalizing drugs would eliminate many problems associated with drugs, as opponents of drug decriminalization have no justification for criminalizing drugs. Laws regulating drug use cannot be called constitutional because drug use cannot be classified as a legal matter; it's a health issue. Most drug addicts need help, not prison. Drug laws have only led to marginalization, with people of specific races and ethnicities disproportionately incarcerated. Many people use drugs recreationally and don't deserve to be punished for it. It is unfair to impose fines, probation, or any other type of punishment on recreational users. The current drug law doesn't work; they don't stop people from using drugs. According to research, a significant portion of the population in the United States uses drugs illegally. This demonstrates the ineffectiveness of current drug laws. Economic and Social Implications The state and federal government spend a lot of funds to manage prisons, jails, and parole for drug-related charges. Decriminalizing drugs would reduce the number of drug arrests and related charges; law enforcement would focus on other crimes. This would reduce public spending on correctional units, allowing the funds to be used for other development projects. The war on drugs is very expensive, and decriminalization could save a significant amount of money. The government would also receive more money from drug taxation; it could be a huge source of revenue. Racial Disparities and Law Enforcement Drug law enforcement laws are often racialized and target people of specific ethnic backgrounds. The war on drugs has disproportionately affected people of color, with significantly higher numbers of drug arrests in these communities. Health and Educational Perspectives Treating people addicted to drugs would be much easier if drugs were decriminalized. This would allow for more open discussion and education about drug use. That is.. 52 (2015): 173.