"Oregon's Evolving Legislative Agenda: From Drug Policy Reconsideration to Housing and Emissions Crises"

Oregon's Measure 110, which decriminalized possession of small amounts of hard drugs and directed drug users towards treatment instead of arrest, is now under reconsideration as the state grapples with a worsening drug crisis. Lawmakers are debating whether to recriminalize drugs, citing concerns about the effectiveness of the citation system and the surge in opioid overdoses since the law's passage. While some argue for a return to criminal penalties, others emphasize the need to address underlying issues such as the fentanyl crisis, homelessness, and healthcare system strain, while acknowledging the positive impact of Measure 110 in expanding addiction treatment services.