In recognition of National Police Week and in response to Oregon’s drug crisis, House Republicans attempted to withdraw four pieces of legislation to prioritize public safety and Measure 110 reform. Democratic committee chairs never advanced these bills in committee. The Democratic majority -- under the leadership of Majority Leader Julie Fahey -- voted each bill down on the floor, despite bipartisan support on three of the four votes.

A recent poll among Oregonians revealed that:

• 63% of respondents would support a tweak to Measure 110 to reinstate criminal punishments for the possession of illegal drugs while continuing funding for drug addiction services.
• 65% of respondents felt that Measure 110 has made addition and overdoses in the State of Oregon worse.
• 63% of respondents felt that Measure 110 has worsened the homelessness crisis.

While none of the motions received the required 31 votes to withdraw a bill, three of the four bills had bipartisan support and split evenly in tied 30-30 votes.

• HJR 29 – Proposal for a constitutional amendment that would bring Oregon in line with all 49 other states requiring a unanimous verdict if not guilty, as well as a unanimous verdict if guilty. Motion to withdraw from Rules failed - Ayes, 25; Nays, 35.
• HB 2135 – Eliminates the current “catch and release” system which allows criminals to commit a crime, get arrested, get released, and then commit another crime after release. Motion to withdraw from Judiciary failed - Ayes, 30; Nays, 30.
• HB 3603 – Provides that in cases where a defendant is charged with a sexual offense or domestic violence, evidence of the defendant’s commission of prior sexual offenses or domestic violence is admissible. Motion to withdraw from Judiciary failed - Ayes, 30; Nays, 30.
• HB 2310 – Reestablishes criminal penalties for possession and distribution of street drugs, including fentanyl, that were stripped by Measure 110, while still supporting the rehabilitation funds that go towards expanding access to rehabilitation programs. Motion to withdraw from Judiciary failed - Ayes, 30; Nays, 30.

“HB 2310 would have done what most Oregonians are asking for. Not only did this body fail to meet the moment today, but I would like to point out that this bill was never even scheduled for a public hearing to gain the input of Oregonians. Do we not want to hear what they have to say? We must hold drug users accountable to prevent future tragedies,” said Representative Rick Lewis (R-Silverton), former Chief of Police for 28 years, on the House floor.

Just this week alone, it has been reported that:

• Portland overdose deaths have climbed nearly 50% this year.
• 8 overdose deaths were reported over the weekend in Portland by what is suspected to be fentanyl.
• Thousands of Portland residents are leaving the city as it grapples with the fentanyl crisis.
• Few drug offenders bother calling a treatment hotline to have their fines for possession waived.
  • Only 5 people in Multnomah County have taken up this offer.

Just yesterday, Washington lawmakers voted to keep drugs illegal. Today, Oregon House Democrats voted to keep drugs legal.


--Staff Reports

Post Date: 2023-05-18 06:24:59

Last Update: 2023-05-17 18:14:01