It’s been one year since Oregon citizens voted on drug possession decriminalization by approving Measure 110. With arrests decreasing and possessing for personal use a civil fine, funds and resources find themselves spread out across the state to help with substance use disorder and harm reduction services. 

Official numbers aren’t available yet as 2021 hasn’t come to an end yet. But initial reports are showing several positive aspects from Measure 110. Advocates assume arrests have fallen significantly for those with small possession amounts, which in itself is a huge win for the state. 

“A year ago, Oregonians voted yes on Measure 110 to remove criminal penalties for possession of drugs and expand access to health services,” said Kassandra Frederique. She is the executive director of the Drug Policy Alliance (DPA). “Now, because of this measure, there are thousands of people in Oregon that will never have to experience the devastating life-long barriers of having a drug arrest on their record, which disproportionately and unjustly affected Black and Indigenous people due to targeted policing. 

“Because of this measure, there is more than $300 million in funding that did not exist before being funneled into community organizations to provide adequate and culturally competent care that people desperately need,” Frederique added. 

Funding

Not only have arrests decreased, but harm reduction services and community treatment efforts have increased. Previously, Oregon ranked near the bottom of the states for access to drug treatment. Now, they continue to climb the ranks. More than $300 million in tax dollars has made its way towards these efforts. Some funds come from the state’s cannabis tax, which has allowed for higher fund allocation.

More than 70 organizations in 26 counties have received funding. This has allowed providers to expand their services to low income and uninsured individuals. Additionally, harm reduction efforts have increased statewide. These services are not just for those who have substance use disorders. They are also for those with mental health diagnoses and individuals who suffer from chronic homelessness. This increase in recovery, supportive, and transitional housing has opened up opportunities for more individuals than initially thought. 

One individual on the frontlines, seeing the direct impact of Measure 110 is Haven Wheelock. She currently operates a syringe program in downtown Portland. Many individuals were scared to come receive syringes and other harm reduction services as well as treatment help. Now, they actively seek out these harm reduction programs. “People are finally breathing just a little bit easier,” Wheelock said.

Changing Legislation

Seeing the efforts and results of drug decriminalization in Oregon has inspired lawmakers in other states to push for decriminalization as well. Even on the federal level, lawmakers are pushing for decriminalization. 

“While the devastation of 50 years of cruel and counterproductive policies can’t be erased overnight,” Frederique concluded, speaking on the achievements in Oregon. “By all metrics we hoped to achieve, and what voters asked for, we are going down the right path.”

As other states join the decriminalization effort for all drugs, not just cannabis, we will update you with the latest.

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