Three years after decriminalizing all drugs, Oregon will recriminalize the possession of small quantities of narcotics. The new law passed by Oregon, which is expected to take effect next September, requires police to continue to favor alternatives to criminal prosecution, when possible.
It also intends to strengthen collaboration between law enforcement and health services. For supporters of decriminalization, this step backwards marks “ a return to a failed war on drugs ”. Oregon ranks second in drug problems, but lags far behind when it comes to access to treatment.