Impact of Decriminalizing Drugs and Homeless Camp Regulations in Portland

SOURCE www.foxnews.com
Portland business owner discusses impact of decriminalizing drugs and new regulations on homeless camps proposed by Mayor Ted Wheeler in Portland, Oregon. Oregon lawmakers voted to recriminalize certain drugs after surge in overdose deaths. Addiction and overdose deaths have increased in Oregon and nationwide since decriminalization.

Key Points

  • Mayor Ted Wheeler proposed new regulations to end ban on homeless daytime camping
  • Oregon lawmakers voted to recriminalize certain drugs after surge in overdose deaths
  • Addiction and overdose deaths have increased since decriminalization

Pros

  • Proposed regulations may provide tools to change status quo in Portland
  • Focus on addressing homelessness issue

Cons

  • Potential increase in homeless daytime camping
  • Recriminalization of certain drugs may not address root causes of addiction