Oregon Legislature Passes Bill Recriminalizing Drug Possession
Oregon Legislature passes bill recriminalizing possession of small amounts of drugs, undoing part of the state's drug decriminalization law to address overdose crisis. Governor open to signing the bill.
Key Points
- Oregon Legislature passes bill recriminalizing possession of small amounts of drugs
- Governor Tina Kotek open to signing the bill
- Aims to address the overdose crisis in Oregon
- Enables police to confiscate drugs and offer drug treatment as an alternative
- Critics argue it may reinforce ineffective punishment narratives
Pros
- Enables police to confiscate drugs and crack down on their use in public spaces
- Provides an alternative of drug treatment instead of criminal penalties
- Aims to make it easier to prosecute drug sellers
- Increases access to addiction medication and housing without discrimination
Cons
- Seen as a return to the failed 'war on drugs'
- Opponents argue it may unfairly impact and imprison Black individuals
- Some believe it does not address substance use disorder effectively