Strategies to deal with drug use and abuse have changed drastically throughout U.S. history. Attitudes toward addiction have also changed.
In the 1960s, drug use became more common among the middle class and was a sign of rebellion. In response, federal and state governments came up with various programs, departments, laws, and regulations to control drug use and possession. Proposed and enacted solutions include the expansion of methadone use for heroin addicts in prison, the War on Drugs, and the formation of the Drug Enforcement Administration.
One of the newest changes to drug policy in the state of Colorado is HB 19-1263. This law is a means to “defelonize” Schedule I and II drugs.