In the 1980s and 1990s, the United States fought the war on drugs, but in the modern era it is clear to see it was the drugs that won. However, there has been some pushback against recreational drug use in the United States. Oregon, following its decriminalization of drugs in 2020, has recently shifted its stance and re-criminalized possession as of last week.

The initial bill passed in 2020 did not decriminalize taking, buying or selling all drugs, but merely that possession of any drug was no longer a criminal offense. Instead, labeled as a civil offense, these ‘crimes’ could not send perpetrators to jail but would result in lighter punishments such as mandated therapy.

However, a process beginning Sept. 1, 2023 and concluding April 1, 2024 with Gov. Tina Kotek has officially criminalized drug possession once more. This does not overturn the marijuana legalization passed in 2014, but does make possession of hard drugs such as fentanyl, morphine, cocaine and others result in criminal charges such as jail time.

Some journalists claim they “pulled the plug too soon.” Others are relieved Oregon has “come to their senses.” Yet for such a complex issue, it is pertinent to hear many opinions.

What one needs to keep in mind when considering Oregon is not their own politics and laws, but how they may influence other regions. As one of the first states to legalize cannabis, Oregon is rightly influential in terms of drug policy in the United States. One has to wonder, given Oregon’s recent change of heart, whether or not Colorado will tighten restrictions on possession and growing of other psychedelic drugs.

However, for the time being, Oregon has made its decision. And I believe it to be a valid one. 

Drugs such as marijuana, cigarettes, nicotine or even alcohol are all legitimate recreational activities, regardless of one’s opinion of them. Psychedelics, such as mushrooms or acid, can be done safely in the right environment, and I feel comfortable allowing state governments to vote on their conditions for that. Yet drugs such as cocaine, fentanyl, morphine or heroin are all far too dangerous to be legalized for anything besides strictly monitored medicinal uses. 

Legalizing possession is a slippery slope, allowing easier access for addicts and granting them more opportunities to relapse.