"Oregon Governor Reverses Drug Decriminalization After Overdose Crisis"

Democratic Gov. Tina Kotek of Oregon has signed legislation to recriminalize the possession of small amounts of certain drugs, overturning a voter-backed measure from 2020 that decriminalized minor drug possession. The move comes as the state grapples with a surge in homelessness, homicides, and overdose deaths. The new law makes drug possession a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in prison and allows for police crackdowns on drug use in public spaces. Another bill signed allocates funds for behavioral health and education programs, emphasizing the need for coordination and non-jail opportunities for misdemeanor sanctions.