Oregon Reverses Groundbreaking Drug Decriminalization Law
Oregon's pioneering three-year experiment with drug decriminalization, known as Measure 110, has been overhauled by state lawmakers in response to the fentanyl crisis and increasing public drug use. The measure, initially approved by nearly 60% of voters in 2020, faced growing controversy as the state grappled with the surge in fentanyl-related issues and escalating drug use in public spaces.
The recent bipartisan deal reached by lawmakers effectively reintroduces criminal penalties for the possession of hard drugs, making minor drug possession a misdemeanor. Additionally, millions of dollars have been allocated towards specialty court programs, mental health, and addiction treatment. The $211 million bill was approved by the Oregon House and Senate, and it now awaits the signature of Governor Tina Kotek.
The revised measure makes the possession of small amounts of drugs, such as heroin or methamphetamine, a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail. It also grants police the authority to confiscate drugs and crack down on their use in public areas, while offering drug treatment as an alternative to criminal penalties.
Despite concerns about potential racial disparities in the criminal justice system, the bill's authors emphasized that drug users will have the opportunity to seek treatment before facing criminal consequences. Democratic Senate majority leader, Kate Lieber, highlighted the bill's commitment to ensuring access to necessary treatment and care for Oregonians, heralding it as the start of transformative change for the justice system.
Oregon has experienced a staggering 1,500% increase in overdose deaths since the onset of the pandemic, with the state recording almost 1,000 opiate-related deaths in 2022. The surge in drug-related issues has become more visible, with reports of open drug use in downtown areas and the emergence of encampments in small towns.
The passage of the revised measure followed intense debate and testimony from various stakeholders, including law enforcement, advocates, local officials, and affected residents. Supporters of the overhaul urged action to address the impact of fentanyl and visible drug use on the streets, while critics expressed concerns about the potential reinforcement of punitive narratives and the readiness of the state's criminal justice system to accommodate the changes.
News Agencies