Oregon Decriminalizes All Recreational Drugs

Oregon has passed two initiatives that dramatically change the laws governing recreational drug use. Both initiatives have passed by wide margins.

Psychedelic Therapy Legalized

First, the state has passed Measure 109, which allows for licensed practitioners to dispense psychedelic mushrooms for therapeutic purposes. Practitioners need not be doctors, but will need to be licensed in the State, as well as having lived in Oregon for at least two years. There is a two year phase in period, so Oregonians will not see commercial psychedelic mushrooms dispensaries until 2022.

All Recreational Drugs Decriminalized

Measure 110 decriminalizes personal possession of all recreational drugs and provides significant funding for drug rehabilitation. Possession of drugs have been re-classified as a civil violation, akin to a speeding ticket. There is no possibility of jail or other criminal penalties. The maximum fine is $100. The penalty for possession of larger quantities of drugs is reduced to a misdemeanor, so long as the possession isn’t deemed to be for commercial distribution.

Measure 110 does not decriminalize manufacturing or selling drugs.

The measure requires the state to put at least $57 million dollars a year into a drug rehabilitation fund.