Each year, there are over1 million arrests for drug possession in the U.S.
In 2024, there were80,000 overdose deaths in the U.S.
Most Americans support a health approach to drugs. This means focusing on reducing the risk of drug use and overdose, and prioritizing resources and health services that help people recover, stay safe, and thrive. Yet, for decades, arresting people has been the United States’ default response to drugs.
Every 31 seconds, someone is arrested for a drug offense, while people seeking drug treatment face weeks- or months-long waitlists. Arrest records and felony convictions follow people for years, which can result in people losing access to housing, employment, and more.
Under criminalization, drugs have become more potent, drug use has continued, and overdose deaths have risen. It’s not stopping these things – it’s making them worse.
