Will Massachusetts Decriminalize Drugs?

For the last year, Massachusetts’ state legislature has been creeping closer to decriminalizing the use of several illicit substances.

While the move would not make these drugs legal, it would remove criminal penalties for carrying small amounts of these drugs as well as paraphernalia.

Proponents of the motion say that decriminalization will help to reduce stigma, make it easier for people to ask for help without fearing criminal penalties, and reduce the taxpayer burden.

What Drugs Will Be Decriminalized In Massachusetts?

The decriminalization of all drugs is possible if the Massachusetts state government continues along the current trajectory.

However, at this time, the most likely drugs to be decriminalized are psychedelics. House Bill HD.1450 and Senate Bill SD.949 specifically target psilocybin, psilocyn, dimethyltryptamine, ibogaine, and mescaline.

If these two bills are passed, there will be no criminal penalty for carrying 2 grams or less of these substances as long as the carrier is over 18 and is not attempting to sell the product.

These two bills were set to begin hearings on the 13th of June 2023. There is no decision regarding the two bills at this time.

Pros Of Decriminalization

People who argue in favor of decriminalization cite examples of nations like the Netherlands to demonstrate how decriminalization can reduce crime and improve national health.

Reduced Crime

Decriminalization may not reduce the criminal aspect of illicit drug use as much as legalization.

With that said, there is evidence to suggest that removing the fear of arrest does increase a person’s willingness to seek treatment and harm reduction services.

By removing criminal penalties, nations like the Netherlands make it easier for people to access clean drugs and judgment-free treatment.

Reduced Harm

Currently, the most dangerous aspect of illicit drug use is the ubiquity of adulterated drugs. The majority of people who use illicit drugs do not actually know the formulation of the substances they are using.

The presence of fentanyl, animal tranquilizers, and other powerful but cheap drugs is a common factor in overdoses throughout the United States.

Decriminalization holds the potential to help people test the drugs they are purchasing before use, especially in states that currently consider fentanyl testing kits illegal drug paraphernalia.

Safe injection sites are another potential harm reduction program that could flourish with decriminalization, reducing HIV infections and other blood-borne diseases.

Reduced Financial Burden

Massachusetts currently spends approximately $1.2 billion each year on incarcerated residents, and drug offenses are the third most common reason for incarceration in the state.

In 2022, 10% of Massachusetts’ incarcerated population were in custody for drug offenses.

While this percentage is a dramatic reduction in comparison to the 1980s and 90s, decriminalization could save Massachusetts taxpayers up to $120 million each year.

Cons Of Decriminalization

People who argue against decriminalization cite counties in Oregon where overdose deaths have increased since all drugs were decriminalized in the state.

The argument is that availability and lack of punishment could encourage drug use in the population, increasing the need for public resources enough to offset the amount saved on incarceration.

Finding Help For Illicit Substance Use

The argument over decriminalization continues. The state legislature began research into the effects of decriminalization over a year ago, and it is unlikely the matter will be resolved soon.

In the meantime, people who wish to stop abusing drugs or alcohol should know that there are protections in place that allow them to seek medical care and addiction treatment.

Doctor/patient confidentiality and the confidentiality clauses of accredited addiction treatment programs ensure that patients can receive the help they need without fear of punishment.

Contact our team at Bedrock Recovery Center today to learn how we can help you.

Keep Reading:

• Can You Force Someone Into Rehab In Massachusetts?
• Rise In Marijuana-Related Driving Fatalities
• Drug Abuse And Addiction Statistics In The U.S.