Oregon Decriminalizes Hard Drugs Including Heroin and Cocaine

The state of Oregon on Tuesday decriminalized some hard street drugs via a new law that they put on the ballot. As reported by The Oregonian, voters overwhelmingly supported Measure 110, with close to 60 percent voting for the legislation.

Under the new measure, possession of some highly addictive and dangerous drugs like heroin, meth, cocaine, oxycodone won’t be a felony anymore but a non-criminal violation that doesn’t incur imprisonment penalty. Instead, those found in possession of such drugs will be charged a fine, like a ticket for traffic violation, of around $100 or so.

The new legislation is being praised by some as a step in the right direction that will save people with illegal drug addiction problem from going to jail and instead getting treatment options or just a fine. However, there are others who are critical of the new legislation and are worried that it could make things worse for people with drug addiction problems.

What is your take on this development? Feel free to comment below.

• drugs
• heroin and cocaine
• Oregon addiction