How does decriminalizing drugs help in reducing incarceration rates and addressing substance abuse issues?

Decriminalizing drugs can help reduce incarceration rates by treating drug use as a public health issue rather than a criminal one. This approach focuses on providing support and treatment for individuals struggling with substance abuse, rather than punishment. By shifting the focus from punishment to rehabilitation, decriminalization can help address the root causes of substance abuse and reduce the burden on the criminal justice system.