How Washington Decriminalized (Then Recriminalized) Drug Possession

In 2021, Washington’s Supreme Court struck down the state’s drug possession law, saying it was unfair to punish people who didn’t knowingly have drugs. This ruling effectively decriminalized simple possession and forced lawmakers to act. The “Blake Fix,” passed in 2023 as Senate Bill 5536, brought back penalties for knowingly possessing drugs, making it a gross misdemeanor. It also added more funding for treatment and diversion programs. In this video, we explain what the Blake decision was, why lawmakers stepped in, and what the changes mean for Washington communities. Sources: Fox 13 Seattle, Kitsap County Sheriff's Office, Washington State House Republicans