Voter's Remorse? Oregon Considers Backtracking on Drug Decriminalization

Less than three years after Oregon's Measure 110, which decriminalized hard drugs, was approved, Clackamas County commissioners are deliberating on its potential reversal. They are exploring an advisory vote for the May 2024 ballot as a means to assess public sentiment about this contentious issue. The debate is driven by a desire to understand whether voters, who initially supported the measure, are now experiencing 'buyer's remorse' as Commissioner Schrader suggests.

The discussion among the commissioners extends beyond just the voters, though. Other options are being considered, such as requesting a special legislative session from Governor Tina Kotek or redirecting funds toward behavioral health resource networks. Commissioner Ben West is urging local communities to step up in support of their neighborhoods, schools, parks, and law enforcement agencies, emphasizing that the current legislative direction has proven inadequate. 

In April 2023, DHM Research polled Oregon voters about repealing portions of Measure 110 to bring back criminal penalties for drug possession, while continuing to use cannabis taxes to fund drug treatment programs. Key findings from the survey include:

• More voters believe that the root cause of homelessness is drug addiction and mental health problems rather than a lack of access to affordable housing
• A majority of Oregon voters think that Measure 110 has been bad for Oregon
• More than 6 in 10 voters think that Measure 110 has made drug addiction, homelessness, and crime worse
• 63% of voters support bringing back criminal penalties for drug possession while continuing to use cannabis taxes to fund drug treatment programs
• Voters become more supportive of bringing back criminal penalties for drug possession when hearing about the state’s struggles standing up treatment programs

Read more at Clackamas County, OR commissioners consider overturning 'failed' Measure 110 (koin.com) and Oregon voters support bringing back criminal penalties for drug possession - DHM Research