Legalize and control all recreational drugs?

https://lemmy.world/post/44380316

Legalize and control all recreational drugs? - Lemmy.World

Has this been done anywhere? I’m aware Portugal has legalized possession, and drug use appears to be less than other countries in the EU. But has anyone gone the whole hog? I’m thinking dangerous addictive drugs could be available on prescription only, but ostensibly available upon request for recreational consumption with recommended dosage and other healthcare outcomes monitored by your GP. Tax the drugs proportional to cover their health insurance claims as part of a universal support-based healthcare system. Moderate prices to be competitive with the illicit market while offering better purity and safe access, including to usage parlours that also help you quit. No advertising of drugs (of any kind), and harsh fines for sharing those that are prescription based with others. Couple with robust drug education in schools. Encourage responsible experimentation in controlled settings Why would you continue to buy illegally when the legal product is better, safer, and more cost-effective to acquire legally? Nevermind getting critical information and support from your doctor. For substances that occur naturally, permit private growing for personal use. What are the downsides? Are some hard drugs simply too far beyond the pale to allow production and sale under all circumstances?

Portugal decriminalized all drugs in 2001.

This new approach focused on public health as opposed to public-order priorities by decriminalizing public and private use and possession of all drugs

The number of drug related deaths has reduced from 131 in 2001 to 20 in 2008.[33] As of 2012, Portugal’s drug death toll sat at 3 per million, in comparison to the EU average of 17.3 per million, as one of the lowest drug-related death rates in the EU.[33] This reduction has decreased in later years. The number of drug related deaths is now almost on the same level as before the drug strategy was implemented.[20][28] However, this may be accounted for by improvement in measurement practices, which includes a doubling of toxicological autopsies now being performed, meaning that more drugs related deaths are likely to be recorded.[34]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drug_policy_of_Portugal

Drug policy of Portugal - Wikipedia