Oregon’s groundbreaking drug decriminalization experiment is coming to an end, with possession of hard drugs becoming a crime once again. The Democratic-controlled Legislature passed a law in March to recriminalize drug possession after a 2020 measure decriminalized it. The new law aims to crack down on drug use in public and introduces harsher penalties for drug sales near sensitive areas. However, supporters of decriminalization argue that treatment is more effective than jail in addressing addiction.
Despite the new law encouraging counties to develop programs for diversion from the criminal justice system, concerns remain about potential inconsistencies in these programs county to county. Some counties have already applied for grants to fund deflection programs, with Multnomah County planning to open a temporary center to assess and refer individuals for treatment.
While the focus shifts towards treatment, concerns about strain on Oregon’s legal system and the need for increased capacity remain. Lawmakers are monitoring the effectiveness of different approaches in various counties, acknowledging the challenges and work ahead in addressing addiction.
Oregon has invested heavily in expanding treatment capacity in recent years, but gaps still exist. As the state navigates the transition back to drug criminalization, the emphasis remains on finding solutions that effectively address addiction while ensuring equitable access to services.
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