Three years ago, Oregon embarked on a groundbreaking plan to decriminalize hard drugs, focusing on treatment over punishment. However, faced with a surge in overdose deaths and chaos in the streets, Gov. Tina Kotek recently signed a measure to restore criminal penalties for drug possession, ending a key portion of the initiative known as Measure 110. Supporters of the rollback, including Mayor Ted Wheeler of Portland, believe it is necessary to address the challenges facing the city, such as homelessness, protests, and escalating crime rates. The new law allows for small-time drug users to face up to 180 days in jail, with provisions for treatment instead of confinement in many cases.
In an interview with The New York Times, Mayor Wheeler discussed the shift in drug policy and the future of his city. He emphasized the importance of building a mental health system and creating pathways for behavioral health treatment. While acknowledging the necessity of restoring law enforcement tools, he also stressed the need to invest in behavioral health infrastructure that was lacking in the state. Wheeler expressed caution in evaluating the impact of Measure 110, attributing some of the addiction and overdose rates to the decriminalization of hard drugs and the associated criminal activity.
Despite the challenges faced by Portland, Mayor Wheeler remains optimistic about the city’s future. He cited improvements in foot traffic, decreased criminal activity, and the expansion of shelter beds as signs of progress. However, he acknowledged that a significant percentage of residents still feel unsafe in downtown Portland at night, reflecting ongoing concerns about public safety. Wheeler highlighted the need for continued investment in behavioral health services to address the root causes of addiction and homelessness, which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Looking back at his initial campaign promises to address homelessness and mental health issues, Wheeler noted that unforeseen crises such as the rise of fentanyl and methamphetamine, as well as the lack of investment in treatment services, have contributed to the current challenges facing the city. He accepted shared responsibility for the situation, pointing to systemic failures at the state and national levels in addressing behavioral health issues. Wheeler acknowledged the shift towards more conservative policies on policing, crime, and drug policy across the country, driven by a desire for order and security in uncertain times.
As other states and cities consider drug decriminalization, Wheeler emphasized the importance of having a robust treatment infrastructure in place before implementing such measures. He acknowledged that Oregon’s experiment with decriminalization had failed due to botched implementation, poor timing, and political missteps. While Wheeler did not rule out the possibility of future decriminalization efforts, he stressed the need for adequate behavioral health services to support individuals struggling with addiction. Ultimately, he believes that a successful approach to drug policy must balance law enforcement with effective treatment options, addressing the complex societal issues at the root of drug addiction.
