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State Drug Law Reforms to Reduce Felony Convictions and Increase Second Chances
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Recognizing the harm caused by felony convictions and the importance of targeting limited correctional resources more efficiently, state policymakers and voters have made key adjustments to their drug laws in recent years. Five states have reclassified all drug possession from a felony to a misdemeanor: California, Utah, Connecticut, Alaska, and Oklahoma. This brief explores the policy details of reclassification, the potential impact of the reforms, and lessons for other states looking to adopt similar changes to their drug laws.