The Results Are in—Oregon's Total Drug Decriminalization Was a Failure

Hell is paved with progressive policies.

The Results Are in—Oregon's Total Drug Decriminalization Was a Failure | Opinion (msn.com)

In February 2021, politicians and activists celebrated Oregon's implementation of Measure 110, the nation's first law to decriminalize drugs like fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and meth. It's not a surprise what happened next: a dramatic increase in overdoses.
Fast forward to last week: Oregon Governor Tina Kotek and Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler declared a state of emergency in Portland due to sharp rises in overdose deaths, public drug use, and crime. Though the state of emergency is a step in the right direction, more must be done to undo the harm caused by Measure 110 and help more Oregonians live safe and healthy lives.
Violent crime also increased by 17 percent in Oregon since Measure 110 passed, despite decreasing nationally. Measure 110 has made communities less safe, as those with an untreated substance use disorder often resort to burglary and other crimes to fund their addiction.
Alongside the rise in overdose deaths and crime has come a rise in public drug use. Last month, the Associated Press reported that there is rampant public drug use in the state. I saw it firsthand when I visited Portland last July. This trend shouldn't be a surprise to anyone. When our laws send a message that drugs are not of public concern, what did we think would happen?
Homeless encampments and people injecting drugs like fentanyl are all too common on the streets of Portland. It explains why public opinion has soured so quickly on Measure 110. A poll late last summer found that nearly two-thirds of Oregonians––including 79 percent of Hispanics and 74 percent of Black Oregonians––want to repeal parts of Measure 110 and bring back penalties. A majority wants to repeal Measure 110 completely.

Liberal Forum

The Results Are in—Oregon's Total Drug Decriminalization Was a Failure

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