The researchers were far more uncertain about the effects of B.C.’s drug decriminalization experiment, predominantly because it was implemented in tandem with safer supply, making it impossible to study in isolation. They further noted that, in this context, increased hospitalizations could be explained in two opposing ways: either decriminalization increased drug use and caused new overdoses, or, alternatively, it “reduced stigma associated with drug use, encouraging persons merely gave addicts the confidence to seek medical assistance they would’ve otherwise avoided.”