February 29, 2024 3:00 p.m. 

In what is being called a historic vote on the Oregon House Floor, on Thursday lawmakers passed HB 4002 by a vote of 51-7.

Douglas County State Representative Christine Goodwin says the move sends a strong message to the rest of the country that the movement to legalize drugs nationwide ends here.

Goodwin said, “Oregonians have been clear all along: they are ready for this drug decriminalization experiment to be over. I heard their cries and voted to provide law enforcement with the necessary tools to hold drug dealers accountable, direct people struggling with addiction to treatment, and restore safety to our communities”.

Goodwin serves on the Joint Committee on Addiction and Community Safety Response. Goodwin said, “HB 4002 is not the be all end all that will repair the damage done in the last three years, but reengaging law enforcement and the criminal justice system is a solid place to start. I look forward to continuing this work in the coming months and years.

HB 4002 now heads to the Senate for consideration.