Oregon Moves to Recriminalize Drug Possession, Awaiting Governor's Decision

The bill aims to reverse the state's 2020 decriminalization law amid concerns over drug overdoses and social inequities.

Oregon lawmakers have passed a bill to recriminalize the possession of small amounts of drugs, reversing the state's 2020 decriminalization law.
The bill now awaits Democratic Governor Tina Kotek's decision, who has previously expressed openness to considering it.
Social justice groups criticize the move, fearing it will disproportionately impact communities of color and exacerbate social inequities.
The bill aims to address the state's spike in drug overdoses, particularly from fentanyl, but faces criticism for potentially increasing the burden on the legal system.
If signed into law, the bill would make drug possession a misdemeanor, with alternatives for treatment instead of jail time.