Drug Possession Becomes Illegal Again in Oregon as Decriminalization Law Expires

Oregon’s experiment with drug decriminalization came to an end on Sept. 1, with a law now in effect that re-criminalizes the possession of small amounts of certain drugs in the state.

The law, HB 4002, passed in March, makes the possession of drugs such as fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine for personal use in Oregon a misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail.
It enables police to address drug use in public areas and makes it easier to prosecute people who sell drugs. The bill also establishes ways for treatment to be offered as an alternative to criminal penalties.

Law enforcement officers are “encouraged, but not required” to refer individuals to a “deflection program,” diverting them to addiction and mental health services instead of arresting them for misdemeanor drug possession.

The Drug Policy Alliance (DPA) has raised concerns about the law, stating that it “treats addiction and the overdose crisis as criminal problems” rather than health issues.

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