SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Democratic lawmakers in Oregon on Tuesday unveiled a sweeping new bill that would undo a key part of the state’s first-in-the-nation drug decriminalization law, a recognition that public opinion has soured on the measure amid rampant public drug use during the fentanyl crisis. It also aims to make it easier to prosecute dealers, to access addiction treatment medication, and to obtain and keep housing without facing discrimination for using that medication. The Legislature adjourned over the summer, but concern over the state's drug crisis led Democrats to launch the committee in between sessions. Measure 110 directed the state’s cannabis tax revenue toward drug addiction treatment while decriminalizing “personal use” amounts of illicit drugs. Those arrested for small amounts would be referred by police to a peer support specialist to schedule an assessment or intervention.

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Persons: “, Sen, Kate Lieber, Lieber, decriminalizing, “ We're, ″ Lieber Organizations: — Democratic, Portland Democrat, Associated Press, Voters, Democratic Locations: SALEM, Ore, Oregon, Portland