Introduction
Nowadays, the issue of narcotics, legalization, and decriminalization is acute, with one group of people supporting both processes involving specific types of drugs and another group condemning both. At the same time, not all people understand that between the two terms the distinct differences exist, despite seeming to be the terms that can be used interchangeably. Although both practices involve the relaxation of drug laws, legalization eliminates any prosecution for the use, purchase, or possession of the drug, and decriminalization only reduces the penalty for possession in small quantities or personal use.
Drug Legalization
Firstly, before delving deeper into the essence of decriminalization, it is necessary to start with the legalization. Drug legalization occurs when it is acceptable for adults to buy, consume, and carry drugs for recreational purposes (Hart & Ksir, 2017). Among the most evident examples of drug legalization are tobacco and alcohol (Hart & Ksir, 2017). The main distinction is that under legalization, it is allowed for those of legal age to purchase, consume, and possess drugs for recreational purposes (Hart & Ksir, 2017).
Federal laws now in place that control alcohol and cigarettes are instances of drug legalization (Hart & Ksir, 2017). In other words, there are no punishments for people who are engaged in actions that involve the legalized types of drugs. It can be assumed that the reason why such a practice can be helpful is that it reduces the presence of black markets, along with a decreased level of violence and criminal activity. Moreover, legalization can grant adults the right to decide upon the use of drugs, similar to the decisions they make in regard to tobacco or alcohol use.
Drug Decriminalization
In contrast, when drug possession for private consumption is no longer a crime, the practice is known as drug decriminalization. Under decriminalization, the purchase, use, and possession of narcotics may be punished by a ticket, similar to those for traffic infractions, with penalties or warnings (Hart & Ksir, 2017). The main purpose of decriminalization is to prevent social and health harms that are associated with narcotics practices. By removing criminal penalties that are connected to the consumption, purchasing, and possession of certain types of drugs, the authorities aim to reduce the costs associated with incarcerations or criminal records. Consequently, many people can seek professional health and appropriate treatment without fear of being punished for any actions related to such substances.
Still, one should remember that although violations do not result in criminal convictions, drugs are still illegal (Hart & Ksir, 2017). This is a crucial factor in the high rates of incarceration in the U.S. and the atrocious human rights abuses that occur all over the world (Hart & Ksir, 2017). Therefore, there are still risks associated with the substances, which are absent when there is legalization.
Conclusion
In summary, while both approaches include the relaxing of drug laws, legalization completely ends any prosecution for drug use, purchase, or possession, whereas decriminalization just lessens the penalties for personal use or small-scale possession. When it is allowed for adults to consume drugs for recreational purposes, drug legalization has taken place. Tobacco and alcohol are two of the most obvious instances of drug legalization. Contrarily, the approach is referred to as drug decriminalization when drugs are no longer considered illegal to possess for personal use. Under decriminalization, a fine similar to one for traffic offenses, with penalties or warnings for buying, using, and possessing drugs, could be issued.
Reference
Hart, C. L., & Ksir, C. J. (2017). Drugs, society, and human behavior (17th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.