Oregon Debates Measure 110 Revisions Amid Rising Drug Crisis

Lawmakers and advocates clash over the best approach to address the state's drug addiction and overdose epidemic, with proposals ranging from recriminalization to expanding treatment services.

• In 2020, Oregon became the first state to decriminalize possession of deadly drugs like fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine under Measure 110, aiming to address addiction more effectively.
• Three years after its implementation, critics argue Measure 110 has failed, citing increased drug overdoses and public safety concerns, and call for significant revisions including mandatory treatment and recriminalization for certain offenses.
• Supporters of Measure 110 argue that recriminalizing drug possession will not solve the crisis and emphasize the need for expanded treatment services and harm reduction programs.
• A proposed bill seeks to recriminalize drug possession as a Class C misdemeanor, sparking debate among lawmakers, law enforcement, and advocacy groups over its potential impact.
• The debate highlights the broader challenge of balancing public safety with effective addiction treatment and recovery strategies in Oregon.

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