Oregon Recriminalizes Drug Possession After Decriminalization Failure

New legislation introduces tougher penalties and treatment options amid controversy over public health impacts.

House Bill 4002 reintroduces misdemeanor charges for possession of small amounts of drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine.
The law includes deflection programs offering treatment instead of jail time, but implementation varies widely across counties.
Advocacy groups argue the new law revives ineffective drug policies and exacerbates public health issues.
Critics highlight the state's inadequate treatment infrastructure and ongoing shortage of public defenders.
Republican leaders blame the previous decriminalization for increased overdose deaths, crime, and homelessness.