Oregon overdoses reach record highs after decriminalization of hard drugs

Following Oregon's decision to decriminalize hard drugs in 2021, there has been a marked increase in overdoses and drug-related deaths. The largest spike coming primarily from opioids and fentanyl-laced methamphetamine.

According to The Seattle Times, Republican State Representative Lilly Morgan noted a 700-percent increase in overdoses and a 120-percent increase in overdose deaths. She said, "we have overdoses increasing at drastic rates… How long do we wait before we have an impact that we’re saving lives?"

In November of 2020, Oregonians voted for Ballot Measure 110 which decriminalized personal possession of drugs such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and LSD.

The bill passed with 58 percent support after its proponents declared that drug possession and use was a healthcare issue and not a criminal issue.