APhA Policy Manual

Legalization or Decriminalization of Illicit Drugs

DRUG ABUSE, CONTROL AND EDUCATION

APhA opposes legalization of the possession, sale, distribution, or use of illicit drug substances for non-medical uses.
APhA supports decriminalization of the personal possession or personal use of illicit drug substances or paraphernalia.
APhA supports voluntary pathways for the treatment and rehabilitation of individuals who have been charged with the possession or use of illicit drug substances and who have substance use or other related medical disorders.
4 APhA supports criminal penalties for persons convicted of drug trafficking or illicit drug manufacturing, whenever alternate pathways are inappropriate as determined by the courts.