Salem, OR – Oregonians are cautiously optimistic about the state’s new approach to addressing drug addiction, but many remain concerned about the hurdles individuals still face in accessing treatment services, according to a recent survey and interviews conducted by the Capital Chronicle. The survey results, gathered from a broad spectrum of people across the state, highlight ongoing issues related to drug availability and treatment accessibility, especially as fentanyl-related overdoses continue to rise.
Tina Bialas, the director of Central City Concern’s Letty Owings Center, which helps Portland-area women in recovery, expressed concern over the rising toll of fentanyl on treatment programs. “Those of us who have worked in [substance use disorder] treatment – 30 years, for me – have not seen anything like the impacts of fentanyl with regards to what is needed in treatment once a person gets into services,” Bialas said. Her statement reflects the growing strain placed on treatment providers by the influx of fentanyl, which has dramatically escalated the severity of overdoses and the complexity of addiction care.
The survey, which ran from August 2024 to January 2025, included responses from over 100 people from 18 of Oregon’s 36 counties, ranging from those in recovery to professionals working in the field. It also included individuals who have lost loved ones to addiction. A significant 61% of respondents reported having a friend or family member struggling with substance use. This data underscores the personal and widespread nature of addiction across the state.
Oregonians expressed a mix of optimism and concern regarding the new deflection programs introduced under House Bill 4002, passed in 2024. This law recriminalized low-level drug possession and allowed counties to implement programs aimed at diverting individuals from jail into treatment services. However, many respondents noted the ongoing challenges in accessing those services.
A majority of survey participants pointed to the easy availability of drugs on the streets, particularly fentanyl, as a significant barrier to overcoming addiction. Nearly 60% of those surveyed indicated that the continued prevalence of illicit drugs makes it harder for individuals to stay clean, even with access to treatment programs.
Despite these concerns, the deflection programs have begun to take effect. Since the law went into effect in September 2024, police across Oregon have made approximately 3,300 arrests for misdemeanor drug possession. However, arrest data indicates that not all of those arrested are eligible for deflection programs. Factors such as additional charges, pending cases, or residency outside Oregon can disqualify individuals from participating in these diversion programs.
Of the 3,300 arrests, around 1,110 involved only misdemeanor drug possession, with no other charges. Even so, not everyone in this group is eligible for deflection. Some individuals face additional legal barriers, while others may not meet the eligibility criteria outlined by local law enforcement or prosecutors. This adds complexity to an already difficult situation and highlights the uneven implementation of the law across the state.
The survey responses reflect the complicated landscape Oregon faces as it navigates this new phase in the fight against drug addiction. While there is hope that the new law and deflection programs will provide better access to treatment and reduce incarceration rates, concerns persist over the effectiveness of these programs in a state still grappling with an opioid crisis and a flood of fentanyl.
In response to these challenges, treatment providers and community organizations are calling for more comprehensive support systems, including increased funding for treatment services and greater coordination between law enforcement, healthcare providers, and community-based organizations. As Oregon moves forward with its efforts to combat addiction, the road ahead remains fraught with both hope and uncertainty.
