drug legalization

Oregon has ended its experiment with drug decriminalization. Starting Sept. 1, possession of small amounts of illicit substances are once again considered a misdemeanor crime.

In less than a month, Oregon will end its nearly four-year experiment with drug decriminalization. Beginning Sept. 1, possession of small amounts of drugs will again be a misdemeanor crime.

Abbey Stamp is taking on a new role that will put her at the heart of Oregon’s fentanyl overdose crisis – and the next chapter of the state’s effort to combat drug addiction.

The founder and executive director of harm reduction non-profit Stabbin' Wagon is leaving. But she said the controversial Southern Oregon group will continue to provide assistance to drug users.

Marijuana legalization was expected to bring the industry out of the shadows. But in some states, the black market is alive and well.

People caught by police with drugs will face misdemeanor charges starting Sept. 1.

Gov. Tina Kotek’s announcement, though no surprise, makes certain Oregon’s drug decriminalization experiment is over.

State estimates show 1,333 people will be convicted of drug possession and 533 could go to jail every year under House Bill 4002. The numbers suggest that the system Oregon lawmakers envisioned to replace Measure 110 — in which drug users can avoid criminal consequences through treatment — will only go so far.

The voter-approved Measure 110 is nearing its end as the Legislature sends a bill unwinding Oregon’s drug decriminalization to Gov. Tina Kotek.

The sweeping drug addiction proposal now heads to the Senate for a final vote before the session ends.

The bill gained bipartisan support from the joint committee that was tasked with finding solutions to Oregon’s drug addiction crisis.

Law enforcement groups now back House Bill 4002, but opposition from fans of decriminalization is as strong as ever.