Bend, OR – Oregon has begun a novel experiment aimed at transforming how the state handles low-level drug offenses. Since the recriminalization of drug possession on September 1, nearly 220 individuals have been diverted into treatment programs rather than facing misdemeanor charges for possessing small amounts of drugs. This shift is part of a broader effort to move away from punitive measures and towards a public health approach to addiction.

The deflection program, which is being piloted in 28 counties across the state, offers individuals who are caught with small amounts of drugs an opportunity to receive treatment instead of being charged. The program’s centerpiece is a peer navigator — someone with personal experience in addiction — who helps participants connect with the appropriate resources and treatment services. The goal is to address the root causes of addiction, reduce recidivism, and ultimately help individuals on the path to recovery.

For those who choose to participate, the program includes an initial assessment to determine the best course of action for their treatment, which may include therapy, housing assistance, or other support services. If participants remain engaged in treatment, they can successfully complete the program without facing criminal charges. However, those who fail to show up for meetings or drop out of the program are subject to prosecution.

Rep. Jason Kropf, D-Bend, co-chair of the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Addiction and Community Response, highlighted the importance of funding for these programs but also acknowledged the optimism surrounding their early results. The flexibility given to counties to design their own programs has allowed for creativity in how deflection services are implemented, according to county officials.

“We decided, of course, to start small and think big,” said Danielle Farr, Washington County’s deflection program coordinator. Washington County currently has 29 individuals enrolled in its deflection program. While the results have been promising so far, challenges remain, including maintaining contact with individuals who struggle to stay engaged in treatment and ensuring they show up for court dates.

Lane County has also launched a similar program with 35 participants. According to Lane County District Attorney Chris Parosa, the goal is not necessarily for individuals to become drug-free, but to see consistent effort toward recovery. “What we’re really looking for is effort from our participants,” Parosa explained, emphasizing that the program is tailored to meet the individual needs of each person, even if they continue to use drugs.

However, the deflection program is not without its challenges, especially in rural areas. In Malheur County, which borders Idaho and has a population of just 32,000 people, only one individual has enrolled in the program so far. Malheur County District Attorney David Goldthorpe noted that geographic isolation and the large number of out-of-state visitors complicate the outreach process. Visitors from neighboring Idaho, for instance, are not eligible for the program.

The program also has strict eligibility criteria. People with a history of violent crimes or sex offenses are excluded from the program to ensure the safety of staff and other participants.

Despite these challenges, the early results have been positive. In Washington County, District Attorney Kevin Barton described the deflection program as a “beautiful experiment” that balances public safety with the opportunity for individuals to receive the help they need. The program, which grew out of House Bill 4002 passed earlier this year, allows counties to learn from one another as they refine their approaches to deflection.

As the program continues to unfold, some lawmakers have expressed concerns about the adequacy of funding, particularly as the number of participants grows. However, many county officials are optimistic that the program will evolve into an effective model for treating addiction and addressing low-level drug offenses without resorting to incarceration.

The deflection experiment marks a significant shift in Oregon’s approach to drug policy, emphasizing rehabilitation over criminalization. If successful, the model could serve as a blueprint for other states grappling with similar issues of addiction and criminal justice reform.