The American Medical Association (AMA) has taken a bold step towards drug reform by formally endorsing drug decriminalization during their annual meeting on June 12, 2024.
In a decisive vote, AMA delegates approved the decriminalization proposal with 345 in favor and 171 against. The AMA aims to eliminate criminal penalties for personal drug possession, pushing for broader public health and legal reforms.
Initially, the AMA Board of Trustees suggested a more cautious approach, recommending ongoing monitoring of state and federal reclassification efforts. However, Stephen Taylor from the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) proposed stronger language, which led to the final, more assertive stance.
ASAM, historically against even minor marijuana reforms, shifted its position last year to support drug decriminalization. This change underscores a broader shift in drug policy reform within the AMA; That agency has previously supported psychedelics research, opposed kratom criminalization, and called for ending sentencing disparities between crack and powder cocaine.
Multiple Points of View and a New Approach
Despite the Board of Trustees’ reservations, AMA President-elect Bobby Mukkamala emphasized the need for evidence-based policy. The board recommended supporting efforts to expunge criminal records for drug possession after sentence completion. This emphasized the importance of addressing past convictions.
During the meeting, Ryan Englander from AMA’s New England delegation criticized the ongoing “war on drugs”. He pointed to successful examples like Portugal, where decriminalization has led to reduced addiction and overdose rates.
Taylor, from ASAM, noted that evidence supporting the public health benefits of decriminalization has not been properly implemented in the U.S.
Marianne Parshley, from the American College of Physicians, asserted Oregon’s mixed results with decriminalization were complicated by the fentanyl crisis. She emphasized the need for comprehensive support alongside policy changes.
The AMA’s endorsement of drug decriminalization marks a significant move towards more compassionate and effective drug policies. The shift from punitive measures to public health-focused solutions aims to address the root causes of addiction and improve overall outcomes.
