SALEM, Ore. — Lawmakers in Salem are halfway through the short session and some of the most closely watched bills concern the future of Oregon's Measure 110, which decriminalized small amounts of hard drugs.
The voter-approved measure took effect in 2021, making possession of small amounts of drugs a Class E Violation, punishable by a $100 and a ticket that could be waived if the violator contacts a substance use helpline.
Since Measure 110 took effect, critics have blamed the law for an increase in public drug use and little accountability. Others who support it have said it's working if only to keep people addicted to drugs out of jail and on a path toward treatment. There remains a spectrum of opinions on what should happen with Measure 110.
Earlier this month, lawmakers introduced three bills: two backed by Republicans and one backed by Democrats. This week, it's the Democrats' initial proposal, House Bill 4002, that appears to be inching toward compromise. Sources have told KGW there have been some changes made behind the scenes.
Among those ideas: penalties of up to six months in jail for repeat parole violators, plus a new unclassified misdemeanor class. Also, making what are known as deflection programs optional for counties, rather than mandatory. These programs prioritize treatment and help someone avoid criminal charges for drug possession.
It's worth keeping in mind that closed door conversations are still happening, which means things could change before the bill gets its next hearing.
Meanwhile, advocacy groups like the Urban League of Portland are already reacting.
"We were in staunch opposition to any recrimination... of folks who are suffering," said Jennifer Parrish Taylor, the director of advocacy and public policy. "From what we've heard...this new iterative amendment that we are expecting is, quite frankly, worse than what was initially introduced."
KGW reached out to the Oregon State Sheriffs' Association to get their take on recriminalization, but they haven't responded. The changes, first reported by The Oregonian and OPB, have largely left the public health side of this alone, which means treatment is still the top priority.
If this version, or any other makes it through the House and Senate, and onto the governor's desk, will she sign it? Here's what Gov. Tina Kotek told Laural Porter last week on Straight Talk.
"The filter I'm bringing to it is will this make it better? Will it make it better for the people who need the services? Will our communities be safer?" Gov. Kotek said. "If they can pass that filter, then I can sign the bill."