Study Challenges Backlash on Decriminalization of Drugs, Debunks Link to Fatal Overdoses
A recently conducted study by researchers at the New York University Grossman School of Medicine has challenged the prevailing narrative that the decriminalization of drugs leads to an increase in fatal overdoses. The study, which looked at the overdose data of Oregon and Washington, states that decriminalized drug possession in 2021, found no evidence to support the claim that decriminalization policies contribute to an uptick in overdose deaths.
The study, funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, comes at a time when progressive drug policies are facing public backlash. However, while it debunks the link between decriminalization and fatal overdoses, it also highlights the need for a comprehensive strategy to address drug-related deaths. Harm reduction experts argue that simply decriminalizing drugs is not enough and that a safe and regulated supply of drugs is crucial in curbing deaths.
Despite the findings of the study, the popularity of Oregon’s drug decriminalization policy has been waning, and Washington has already walked back its decriminalization measures. In addition, British Columbia, Canada, which also decriminalized drugs, is imposing new restrictions on drug use locations. It seems that while the study provides evidence against the direct impact of decriminalization on overdose rates, public opinion and legislative decisions continue to fluctuate.
Although the study found that overdoses in Oregon and Washington did not increase solely due to decriminalization, it is worth noting that overdose rates did rise in those states. Oregon witnessed a rise from 18.7 per 100,000 people to 26.8 per 100,000 people, while Washington saw an increase from 22 per 100,000 people to 28.1 per 100,000 people in 2020 and 2021 respectively. However, when compared to a control group composed of data from similar states that did not decriminalize drugs, the differences were not statistically significant.
Corey Davis, a senior study author at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, suggests that the increases in overdose rates in Oregon and Washington could be attributed to several factors. These factors include the fact that both states had lower overdose rates to begin with and a higher prevalence of stimulant use rather than opioid use. Davis also points out that the influx of cheap and easily accessible fentanyl across the country has contributed to the overall rise in overdose deaths.
While the study challenges the notion that decriminalization worsens the overdose crisis, it is crucial to address the underlying issues associated with the drug supply. Davis believes that a contaminated drug supply is the main problem, and discussions about implementing a safe and regulated supply of drugs in the U.S. are challenging due to political reasons. He argues that providing a regulated opioid substitute for individuals at high risk of overdose could potentially reduce overdose deaths.
Davis also highlights the importance of other measures such as increased access to naloxone or methadone for individuals with opioid use disorder. However, he acknowledges that these measures alone might not be sufficient to reverse the staggering number of deaths caused by fentanyl.
In conclusion, the study challenges the prevailing backlash against the decriminalization of drugs by providing evidence that decriminalization policies are not directly linked to fatal overdoses. While it is clear that decriminalization alone is not a comprehensive solution, the study highlights the need for a multi-faceted approach that includes a safe and regulated drug supply, as well as increased access to harm reduction measures. The findings of this study serve as a valuable contribution to the ongoing discussions surrounding drug policy and its impact on public health and safety.
