In November 2020, Oregon voters passed Measure 110, making it the first state to decriminalize the possession of small amounts of all drugs, including heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and other controlled substances. The measure aimed to shift the focus from criminalizing addiction to providing treatment and recovery services. Instead of facing arrest, individuals found with small quantities of drugs would receive a citation and a fine, which could be waived if they participated in a health assessment. This groundbreaking change sparked a national debate about the best ways to address drug addiction and substance abuse.
However, after three years, the Oregon State Legislature repealed Measure 110 and re-criminalizing possession of hard drugs. While Measure 110 was well intended and expanded substance use disorder treatment, the Oregon drug decriminalization effort is largely considered a failure. It sought to get individuals into professional treatment rather than jail, but residents did not see the changes they were hoping for.
Our drug and alcohol rehab in Portland, Oregon has worked to serve our community and participate in efforts to resolve the substance use problem in the state. We support efforts to get Portland residents the treatment they need. Learn more about Measure 110, its aftermath, and what Crestview Recovery has done to work toward solutions for substance misuse in Portland.
What is Measure 110 in Oregon?
Measure 110, also known as the Drug Addiction Treatment and Recovery Act, was a ballot initiative passed in Oregon in November 2020. This bill intended to reduce the harm associated with drug addiction by decriminalizing the possession of small amounts of drugs. It also sought to reallocate resources toward addiction treatment and recovery services. The measure sought to treat addiction as a public health issue rather than criminal, aiming to provide better support and access to treatment for those struggling with substance use disorders.
This is the ballot summary for Measure 110, also known as the Drug Addiction and Recovery Act:
Measure mandates establishment/ funding of ‘addiction recovery centers’ (centers) within each existing coordinated care organization service area by October 1, 2021; centers provide drug users with triage, health assessments, treatment, recovery services. To fund centers, measure dedicates all marijuana tax revenue above $11,250,000 quarterly, legislative appropriations, and any savings from reductions in arrests, incarceration, supervision resulting from the measure. Reduces marijuana tax revenue for other uses. Measure reclassifies personal non-commercial possession of certain drugs under specified amount from misdemeanor or felony (depending on person’s criminal history) to Class E violation subject to either $100 fine or a completed health assessment by center. Oregon Health Authority establishes council to distribute funds/ oversee implementation of centers. Secretary of State audits biennially.
The primary intent of Measure 110 was to reduce the number of people incarcerated for drug possession and to redirect funding from the criminal justice system to addiction treatment and recovery services. Proponents of the measure argued that treating addiction as a health issue would lead to better outcomes for individuals and communities. By providing access to treatment, housing, and harm reduction services, the bill aimed to reduce the negative impacts of drug addiction and improve public health.
Under Measure 110, the possession of small amounts of drugs was decriminalized, meaning that individuals found with such substances would receive a citation similar to a traffic ticket. They would be required to pay a fine or undergo a health assessment, which could connect them to treatment services. The measure also established addiction recovery centers across the state to provide 24/7 access to care and support for individuals seeking help with substance use disorders. These centers were funded by reallocating money from the state’s marijuana tax revenue and savings from reduced incarceration costs.
Why Didn’t Drug Decriminalization Work?
Despite the well-intended goals of Measure 110, the decriminalization of drugs in Oregon has faced significant challenges. One major issue has been the slow implementation of the addiction treatment and recovery services promised by the measure. Many areas have struggled to set up the necessary infrastructure to provide adequate support to those in need. Additionally, there has been an increase in visible drug use and related public health issues, leading to concerns about safety and community well-being. Critics argue that without robust treatment options and enforcement of the health assessment requirement, decriminalization alone cannot effectively address the complexities of addiction.
Portland, Oregon Substance Use Statistics
Since the COVID-19 Pandemic, Oregon and many other cities across the country have seen an increase in substance use disorders and drug overdoses. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, there were 779 opioid overdose deaths in Oregon in 2021, making up 67% of all drug overdose deaths in the state. Nationally, opioid overdose deaths accounted for 75% of all drug overdose deaths in the United States in 2021.
Since the implementation of Measure 110, Portland has seen mixed results from substance use statistics. There has been an increase in reported overdoses and drug-related deaths, highlighting the ongoing challenges in addressing addiction through decriminalization alone. According to the Oregon Health Authority, the number of overdose deaths involving fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other substances has risen.
This has raised questions about the adequacy of current treatment and harm reduction services. However, proponents of Measure 110 argue that it is still too early to fully assess the long-term impact of the policy. They argue that more time and resources are needed to achieve its intended outcomes.
What is Happening to Measure 110 Now?
As of 2024, Measure 110 is undergoing scrutiny and potential revisions to address the shortcomings and challenges that emerged since its implementation. Lawmakers and public health officials are working to improve the availability and accessibility of treatment services, as well as strengthen the support systems available to individuals cited under the measure. There are ongoing discussions about how to balance decriminalization with effective public health interventions to ensure that the goals of Measure 110 are met.
But as of March 2024, the measure has been repealed and drug possession has been re-criminalized. The measure’s future may involve adjustments to better align resources with the needs of the community and enhance the effectiveness of addiction treatment programs.
How Does Crestview Recovery Help its Community?
Crestview Recovery plays a vital role in supporting the Portland community by providing comprehensive addiction treatment and recovery services. Located in Portland, Crestview Recovery offers a range of programs, including residential treatment, outpatient services, aftercare support, and sober living.
Our evidence-based approaches and personalized treatment plans help individuals overcome substance use disorders and achieve lasting recovery. By offering a supportive and structured environment, Crestview Recovery works to address the root causes of addiction and empower individuals to rebuild their lives. Through community outreach and education, we also work to raise awareness about addiction and advocate for effective treatment solutions.
Crestview Recovery offers comprehensive residential addiction treatment in Portland, providing a structured and supportive environment for individuals seeking to overcome substance use disorders. This program includes medically supervised detoxification, individual and group therapy, and holistic therapies designed to address the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of addiction. With 24/7 care and a personalized treatment plan, clients receive the intensive support they need to achieve lasting recovery.
Outpatient services in Portland provide flexible and effective treatment options for individuals who need to balance recovery with daily responsibilities. These services include intensive outpatient programs (IOP) and partial hospitalization programs (PHP), which offer structured therapy sessions, support groups, and individualized counseling. Outpatient services allow clients to receive high-quality care while maintaining their work, school, or family commitments, supporting a sustainable recovery journey.
Crestview Recovery operates sober living homes in Portland, offering a safe and supportive environment for individuals transitioning from residential treatment to independent living. These homes provide a drug-free community where residents can continue to receive support, build life skills, and develop healthy routines. Sober living homes are an essential step in maintaining sobriety, fostering accountability, and reinforcing the coping strategies learned during treatment.
Crestview Recovery is one of the few rehab centers in the Portland area licensed to provide comprehensive mental health treatment alongside addiction services. The dual diagnosis program addresses both substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Through a combination of evidence-based therapies, medication management, and holistic approaches, Crestview Recovery offers personalized treatment plans that promote overall mental well-being and long-term recovery.
Call Crestview Recovery for Addiction and Mental Health Treatment
Crestview Recovery Center provides substance use disorder and mental health disorders treatment to everyone 18 and older. If you or someone you know is struggling with drug or alcohol use, reach out to our addiction specialists today!
