Oregon's Measure 110 and the Debate Over Decriminalizing Drug Possession
Oregon's Measure 110 decriminalized possession of small amounts of hard drugs in favor of treatment over punishment, leading to a fierce debate amid a spiraling opioid crisis. While the law was celebrated as a compassionate approach to addiction, recent backlash has sparked discussions on reinstating criminal penalties for drug possession.
Key Points
- Measure 110 decriminalized possession of small amounts of hard drugs in Oregon
- Recent backlash has led to debates on reinstating criminal penalties for drug possession
- Advocates argue for giving the law more time to mature and show results
Pros
- Prioritizes treatment over punishment for substance use disorders
- Funds substance abuse treatment with hundreds of millions of dollars
- Provides a low barrier to entry for homeless young people in need of help
Cons
- Has faced backlash amid a spiraling opioid crisis in Oregon
- Critics argue that it has not solved the problem of drug addiction
- Some aspects of the law, like the hotline for alternative to penalties, have been ineffective