In Oregon, lawmakers have overwhelmingly approved a bill that seeks to reclassify possession of a small amount of specific drugs as a misdemeanor, marking a shift in drug policy approximately three years after the state made headlines as the first in the nation to decriminalize the possession and personal use of all drugs.

The legislation, known as HB4002, is now awaiting the consideration of Democratic Gov. Tina Kotek.

While Governor Kotek has not publicly disclosed her stance on the measure, she declared a fentanyl state of emergency in downtown Portland in late January.

When questioned about the governor’s potential actions, Kotek’s office did not specify whether she would sign the bill but emphasized that any changes to Measure 110 would need to demonstrate tangible, measurable improvements for individuals grappling with addiction, coupled with a sense of accountability.

Under the proposed law, offenders could potentially face up to six months in jail, or alternatively, opt for drug treatment instead of criminal penalties, CNN reported.

The bipartisan-supported bill secured passage in both chambers during the week, with the state Senate voting 21-8 on Friday after the state House approved it the night before in a 51-7 vote.

In 2020, Oregon voters approved Measure 110, effectively decriminalizing various hard drugs, including fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine.

The measure, which garnered 58.5% of the vote, came into effect in February 2021.

Written by B.C. Begley