Each year, there are over1 million arrests for drug possession in the U.S.
In 2022, there were107,941 overdose deaths in the U.S.
We need a health approach to drugs, not more criminalization. Drug criminalization and prohibition have led to an unsafe, unregulated drug supply that’s driving the overdose crisis. Possession of even a small amount of drugs can land someone in jail, and saddle them with a lifelong criminal record that prevents them from getting a job, public benefits, or a place to live. Opioid overdose deaths among recently incarcerated people are 27 times higher than the general population in the first 2 weeks post-release.
In 2019, at least 17,278 arrests were made for drug offenses in Mississippi, with law enforcement making 581 arrests per 100,000 people.
Overdose Rates
Drug Possession Laws
Drug Paraphernalia Laws
Decriminalization Legislation Introduced
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