The purpose of this new bill is to curb mass incarceration. There will now be less jail time for first time offenders caught with small amounts of heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine and other illegal drugs. The Washington Post reported that "Oregon lawmakers hope to encourage drug users to seek help rather than filling up the state’s prisons as an epidemic of abuse spreads."
The bill reduces the severity of drug possession from felony to a misdemeanor which in turn reduces the punishments while also allowing first time offenders a better chance at getting help. What do you think?