View the original articleOregonLive article orginially published: Feb. 24, 2024, 6:13 a.m.
Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson announced plans to ensure pathways for individuals to access treatment prior to facing criminal consequences for minor drug possession, in alignment with Measure 110. The proposal, part of a legislative bill, offers counties the option to implement deflection programs, redirecting individuals toward treatment instead of conviction or jail time. Additionally, Vega Pederson urged for the allocation of $25 million towards establishing a drop-off and deflection center in Portland to support those in crisis or struggling with severe addiction. The proposed bill, set for a hearing, seeks to roll back Oregon's voter-approved drug decriminalization law, transforming minor drug possession into a misdemeanor offense.
