Oregon Lawmakers Propose Changes to Drug Decriminalization Law
Drug decriminalization has been a topic of debate in Oregon since the passing of Measure 110 in 2020, which decriminalized the possession of small amounts of drugs. However, recent public opinion and a surge in drug-related issues have prompted Democratic lawmakers to propose changes to the law. A new bill, unveiled by state Senator Kate Lieber and other Democrats, aims to recriminalize the possession of small amounts of drugs as a low-level misdemeanor.
In 2020, voters in Oregon passed Measure 110, making it the first state to decriminalize the possession of small amounts of drugs. The measure aimed to treat addiction as a public health issue rather than a crime. Possession of under a gram of drugs, such as heroin, became subject to a ticket and a maximum fine of $100. Those caught wit...