How the Cure Became the Cause: Examining Colorado’s Drug Decriminalization Policies

Illicit fentanyl has transformed the U.S. drug crisis into a national emergency that affects all ages, incomes, and communities. Despite the staggering toll. Where is the policy change?

In this episode, we sit down with award-winning journalist and filmmaker Steffan Tubbs to uncover the harrowing truths behind America’s fentanyl epidemic, as seen in his documentary Devastated: Colorado’s Fentanyl Disaster. He examines the intersection of decriminalization policies, cartel operations, and societal complacency that have allowed this crisis to grow unchecked, and calls us to take action to tackle the crisis.

Listeners will learn: Why fentanyl deaths continue to rise in states like Colorado despite national trends leveling off. How cartels exploit America’s addiction crisis and the policy gaps that enable them. Why parents, policymakers, and the media need to start having real, uncomfortable conversations. What solutions could help reverse the trajectory of this crisis. Views expressed in this material are opinions of the host and the guest, and do not necessarily reflect the views of Rigaku Analytical Devices.