The short answer is yes—Oregon’s 2020 Measure 110 decriminalization of small‑quantity possession of “personal use amounts” of most illicit drugs, including methamphetamine (commonly called “dope”), remains in effect through 2026. While possession no longer triggers a criminal prosecution, it is still subject to a civil citation, a $100 fine, and mandatory health‑assessment requirements. The law has not been repealed or substantially altered by the 2023 legislative session, and no new ballot initiatives have overturned it.
Legal Framework After Measure 110
Measure 110, approved by 59 % of voters in November 2020, reclassified possession of up to one gram of methamphetamine from a misdemeanor to a civil violation. The Oregon Department of Justice now issues citations that may be resolved through payment, community service, or enrollment in addiction‑treatment programs. The statute explicitly preserves criminal penalties for larger quantities (more than one gram), distribution, manufacturing, or possession with intent to sell.
Legislative Updates Through 2023
The 2023 legislative session introduced several complementary bills: SB 1024 expanded funding for community‑based treatment centers, and HB 274 added a data‑collection mandate for tracking health‑outcome metrics. Neither bill altered the core decriminalization language. A 2024 amendment (House Bill 384) raised the civil fine for repeat offenders to $250 after three citations within a two‑year period, but the underlying civil nature of the violation remains unchanged.
Practical Impact on Residents
Data from the Oregon Health Authority show a 27 % decline in drug‑related arrests for methamphetamine between 2020 and 2024, while overdose deaths involving meth have risen modestly (2.3 % annually), suggesting that decriminalization alone does not eliminate health risks. The citation system aims to funnel individuals toward treatment, yet access gaps persist, especially in rural counties where treatment facilities are sparse.
Enforcement and Penalties
- First‑time possession (≤ 1 g): $100 civil citation, optional community service, and referral to a health‑assessment program.
- Second offense within 24 months: $150 fine, mandatory treatment evaluation.
- Third offense within 24 months: $250 fine, possible court referral for adjudication.
- Possession > 1 g, intent to sell, manufacturing: Standard criminal charges (misdemeanor or felony, depending on quantity).
Law enforcement agencies must document each citation in the state’s central database, which is reviewed quarterly by the Oregon Public Health Division.
Frequently Asked Questions
What quantity of methamphetamine is considered “personal use” under Oregon law?
Personal‑use limits are set at one gram or less per individual. Anything above that threshold is treated as a criminal offense, subject to traditional misdemeanor or felony statutes.
Can a civil citation be dismissed without paying the fine?
Yes. Defendants may appear before a magistrate and request a diversion program, which typically involves a brief counseling session and a community‑service component. Successful completion can result in the fine being waived.
Does decriminalization affect federal drug laws?
No. Federal law still classifies methamphetamine as a Schedule II controlled substance. Possession can still result in federal prosecution if the case involves interstate trafficking or occurs on federal property.
How does the law address repeat offenders?
After two citations within a 24‑month window, the fine escalates to $150, and a mandatory health‑assessment is required. A third citation triggers a $250 fine and may lead to a court‑ordered treatment program.
Are there any ongoing efforts to repeal or modify Measure 110?
As of early 2026, no successful repeal attempts have reached the ballot. Several advocacy groups propose tightening the decriminalization thresholds, but legislative proposals have not gained sufficient support to advance beyond committee review.