Oregon to Recriminalize Drug Possession, Reversing 2020 Decriminalization Law

Governor Tina Kotek plans to sign legislation aimed at addressing the state's overdose crisis, with measures for prevention and treatment included.

Oregon lawmakers have voted to recriminalize the possession of small amounts of drugs such as heroin and methamphetamine, reversing a 2020 law that decriminalized most illegal possession of controlled substances.
Governor Tina Kotek intends to sign the bill, which also includes prevention and treatment investments, within the next 30 days.
The new legislation aims to balance treatment for individuals struggling with addiction and accountability, offering drug treatment as an alternative to criminal penalties.
The bill is part of a broader legislative session that also focused on housing and education, including a $370 million package to boost housing production and a $30 million bill to expand summer learning programs for K-12 students.
Critics argue that recriminalization could disproportionately harm communities of color, while supporters believe it will help address the state's overdose and addiction crisis.