Oregon Measure 110, Drug Decriminalization And Addiction Treatment

Oregon Measure 110, the Drug Decriminalization and Addiction Treatment Initiative was approved on November 3rd, 2020, with 58.82% support. The measure reclassified personal and non-commercial drug possession charges. Possession of a controlled substance ranging from Schedule I to Schedule IV, including heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines, psychedelic mushrooms, Xanax, and Ketamine; was reclassified from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class E violation. The Class E violation will be accompanied by a $100 fine or a completed health assessment.

The measure aims to change the stigma surrounding addiction and to favor rehabilitation over incarceration. Those recovering from addiction will get a helping hand instead of a push back into the lifestyle they’re trying to escape. Make no mistake, individuals who manufacture, distribute, or possess large quantities of the drugs will still be subject to criminal penalties. It is estimated that the convictions for possession of a controlled substance will decrease by 90%.

The initiative established the Drug Treatment and Recovery Services Fund, which will receive funds from the Oregon Marijuana Account as well as state savings from reductions in arrests and incarcerations. The measure has been designed so that all revenue in excess of $11.25 million be transferred to the Drug Treatment and Recovery Services Fund every quarter, where it will be allocated through grants to government or community-run organizations to create addiction recovery centers. The facilities must provide immediate medical treatment, health assessments, intervention plans, case management services, and peer support and outreach 24 hours a day.

Should the B.C. government take the same approach to addiction? Let us know in the comments below.