Oregon residents seek clarity on drug law that decriminalized heroin and meth possession.
A Multicounty Alliance in Oregon Aims to Revise Drug Decriminalization Measure
A dynamic alliance consisting of political, civic, and business leaders in Oregon is actively working to bring about changes to a state measure that has significantly reduced penalties for drug charges and effectively decriminalized drug possession. The measure, which was passed three years ago, eliminated criminal penalties for possessing small amounts of any drug, treating minor drug possession as a misdemeanor crime.
“We are seeking to fix and improve Measure 110,” stated Max Williams, a former state lawmaker and previous director of the Oregon Department of Corrections.
Measure 110, which decriminalized hard drugs in Oregon, has faced opposition from a majority of voters who now want the measure completely repealed. According to a recent survey conducted by Emerson College Polling, 56% of registered Oregon voters prefer the law to be repealed. Washington County District Attorney Kevin Barton has joined the movement to revise the law, highlighting that the promised results of the measure, such as increased access to treatment, have not been seen by the voters. In fact, there has been an increase in crime, as reported by Williams, who previously served as CEO of the Oregon Community Foundation.
Recently, the first detox center funded by Measure 110 opened in Portland, redirecting taxes to support drug treatment programs.
The coalition is proposing a short session or a special session in 2024 for lawmakers to review the suggested revisions. In the event that the legislature does not take up the session, the group is actively raising funds for a potential ballot measure next fall.
Additionally, the alliance aims to remove oversight from the Oregon Health Authority and the Oversight and Accountability Council, which currently oversee the distribution of grant funds from Measure 110. Instead, they propose that a reconstructed Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission take on this role.
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