EP 143 - Oregon Rethinks Decriminalization

🎙️ Dive into a Controversial Debate!

In episode 143 of "We Do Recover with Jared Miller," titled "Oregon Rethinks Decriminalization," host Jared Miller and co-host Dr. Terry Sellers embark on a thought-provoking journey, revisiting a critical discussion from episode 51. Two years ago, they explored Oregon's bold move to emulate Portugal's stance on decriminalizing possession of controlled substances. Fast forward to today, and the topic is hotter than ever!

Portugal's Change of Heart?

Dr. Sellers sheds light on a startling shift in Portugal, once hailed as a decriminalization success story. Referencing a news piece from The Washington Post titled "Once Hailed for Decriminalization, Portugal is Now Having Doubts," he reveals a worrying trend: over the last two decades, Portugal has seen a rise in overdose deaths and drug-related crimes. What's more, the Cato Institute is under scrutiny for overlooking a spike in substance abuse among adults, even though there's been a decrease among adolescents and teens.

Oregon's Legislative U-Turn

Jared brings the conversation home, citing a recent article from KGW8 Oregon, "Oregon Lawmakers Unveil Plan for Drug Policy Overhaul, Tweaks to Measure 110." Dated January 23, 2024, the article illuminates a bipartisan consensus in Oregon: Measure 110, which decriminalized possession of controlled substances, hasn't lived up to expectations. It's a candid admission of a policy misstep, igniting intense debate.

The Role of Law Enforcement: A Balancing Act

Both hosts delve into law enforcement's crucial role in aiding individuals to reclaim their lives and ensure community safety. It's a nuanced discussion, highlighting the need for a delicate balance between strict penalties and lenient approaches.

Finding Middle Ground

Jared passionately argues that while felonies for drug possession can be debilitating for users, mere decriminalization and ticketing fail to effectively redirect behavior. His stance? The solution lies in a middle path that navigates between these extremes.

Educational, Insightful, Unmissable!

Episode 143 isn't just a podcast episode; it's an educational voyage, weaving together insights from multiple media sources. Jared and Dr. Sellers offer a rich tapestry of perspectives, catering to an audience grappling with addiction issues. Tune in for a blend of knowledge, debate, and thought-provoking discourse!

Catch this riveting episode for a blend of intense discussions, expert insights, and a deep dive into the complex world of drug policy and addiction recovery!