Oregon Delegation's Portugal Trip Sheds Light on Measure 110 and Law Enforcement Perspectives
A delegation of Oregon policymakers traveled to Portugal to learn about the country's approach to drug decriminalization and addiction treatment in order to improve Oregon's Measure 110. The delegation met with addiction recovery providers, law enforcement, and policymakers in Portugal to understand how the country has implemented a comprehensive healthcare response to its addiction crisis. The trip highlighted the importance of fully funding and easily accessible treatment services, viewing addiction as a public health issue rather than a crime, collaborating with law enforcement, integrating services, and discouraging public drug use. The delegation concluded that while decriminalization is necessary, Measure 110 needs to be expanded to create a comprehensive healthcare approach to addiction.