Umatilla County will study Measure 110 proposal
By Terry Murry on Monday, February 26th, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
UMATILLA COUNTY – Umatilla County District Attorney Dan Primus says the county has agreed to consider whether the county has the means to launch a diversion program for those with substance abuse issues. It is part of a legislative deal to roll back Measure 110, Oregon’s controversial drug decriminalization law
Originally, the Oregon Legislature was going to require such programs statewide. That was changed to each county studying the possibilities and resources for such a program.
“Our county is exploring the options with our current resources,” Primus said. “If the resources aren’t there, we will explore what we will need.”
The Association of Oregon Counties emailed the county governments to consider setting up diversion programs to treat drug users and requested quick action. Primus said he is studying the issue for the county and will be working closely with law enforcement to do so.
“Law enforcement’s involvement is essential, as it is a law enforcement issue,” Primus said.
The compromise bill asks county leaders including district attorneys, to sign letters informing the state about diversion programs in their counties. It also leaves it to the counties what the different diversion programs would be. Primus stressed that the county is studying the issue, not committing to resources to it at this time.
