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Decriminalization
Decriminalization is the reduction or abolition of criminal penalties in relation to certain acts. The reverse process is criminalization.
Decriminalization reflects changing social and moral views. A society may come to the view that an act is not harmful, should no longer be criminalized, or is otherwise not a matter to be addressed by the criminal justice system. Examples of subject matter which have been the subject of changing views on criminality over time in various societies and countries include:
- Homosexuality
- Prostitution
- Polygamy[1]
- Possession, use and sale of various psychoactive drugs, but especially cannabis, that were made illegal mostly in the 20th century
- Breastfeeding in public
- Non-sexual public nudity
- Anabolic steroid use
While decriminalized acts are no longer crimes, they may still be the subject of regulation; for example, the licensing and regular medical testing of prostitutes, or a monetary penalty in place of a criminal charge for the possession of a decriminalized drug. This should be contrasted with legalization, which removes all or most legal detriments from a previously illegal act.
Decriminalization in Mexico
Apparently Mexico is experimenting with drug decriminalization and a number of popular drugs are legal to possess – as depicted in the above photo (showing roughly the amount you can legally possess)...
Joplin won't get to vote on pot decriminalization
Activists had been circulating a petition in Joplin, trying to get a decriminalization measure on the ballot. But they couldn't get enough signatures -- they fell short by 531 names, officials say...
Decriminalization Working in Portugal
A new study by Glenn Greenwald (yes, the same Glenn Greenwald), sponsored by the Cato Institute, concludes that Portugal's decriminalization of drugs has been a big success and has led to none of the negative effects that opponents predicted...
Argentina Considering Decriminalization of Defamation
Argentina is considering a bill to decriminalize libel and slander. The President announced the move while welcoming the arrival of a delegation of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, headed by Kerry Kennedy.
Obama Used to Favor Decriminalization of Marijuana
During the October 30, 2007 presidential debate, Barack Obama raised his hand to say said he opposed decriminalizing marijuna...
MO congressman signs onto pot decriminalization bill
This was the measure introduced by U.S. Rep. Barney Frank, who wants to eliminate federal punishment for people caught 3...
















