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About this quote

What does it mean?
Drug penalties should not harm individuals more than drug use itself.
In plain terms
Punishing drug possession should not be worse than using drugs.
What can you take from it?
Policy should reduce harm not increase it.

Where it applies

  • legislation
  • criminal justice
  • health policy

Putting it to work

  • reform sentencing laws
  • prioritize treatment
  • review penalties

Questions to consider

  • How do we balance law and health?
  • What is proportionate punishment?

Another view

Zero tolerance policies aim to deter use before it starts.

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