Criminalization

Criminalization or criminalisation is the process by which an act which was previously legal becomes a criminal offense by the passing of legislation or by increased enforcement of legislation when the act was previously condoned.

Related Topics:
Criminal offense - Legislation

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The term criminalization is often used specifically in the context where a specific act (e.g. use of particular substances) has previously been legal and where making this act illegal would increase illegal trafficking, smuggling, production or organised crime involvement.

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It has been cited as a major reason against banning smoking.

Related Topics:
Banning - Smoking

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