March 4, 2024 2:50 a.m.

On Friday, the Oregon Senate voted to turn the page on Oregon’s drug decriminalization experiment by passing HB 4002.

A release from the Senate Republican Caucus said the bipartisan proposal will give law enforcement, district attorneys, and local government leaders many of the tools they need to get people off the streets and into life-saving addiction treatment.

Senate Republican Leader Tim Knopp of Bend said, “Republicans stand united with Oregonians who overwhelmingly believe we deserve better than Measure 110. In this historic vote to reimpose penalties for drug possession, we are making it clear Oregon is no longer a drug tourism state”. Knopp said, “Though lawmakers will have much more to do in future sessions to continue making progress on the fentanyl-fueled drug overdose and addiction crisis facing our state. I was proud to stand on the right side of history by casting my vote in favor of HB 4002. Passing this bill will put Oregon on a path to recovery and signifies an end to the nationwide decriminalization movement. I call that a victory”.

The release said a key priority for the Senate Republican Caucus this session is addressing drug addiction, homelessness and crime.