Decriminalization

Decriminalization refers to the reduction or elimination of criminal penalties for the possession, use, or cultivation of cannabis. It is a policy shift that aims to treat cannabis-related offenses as civil infractions rather than criminal offenses. Decriminalization does not mean that cannabis is legalized, but rather that the penalties associated with its use are less severe. This approach is often implemented to reduce the burden on the criminal justice system and to shift the focus towards public health and harm reduction. Decriminalization can vary in its scope and specifics depending on the jurisdiction implementing the policy.