Examining Drug-Related Crime Rates in Oregon and Surrounding States Following the Passage of Measure 110

• In Event: Drug Markets in an Evolving Legal and Social Context

Abstract

In November 2020, citizens of Oregon passed Measure 110 (M110), a sweeping drug reform act. One of the key goals of the measure was to reduce individuals suffering from substance use disorder from criminal justice system involvement by decriminalizing personal amounts of controlled substances. Studies examining drug decriminalization have focused on cannabis in Colorado, Washington, and Oregon find that decriminalization is associated with a decrease in property and drug-related crimes. Yet, little research has examined the relationship between M110 and criminal justice outcomes in Oregon and surrounding states. Using data from the National Incident Based Reporting System (NIBRS) from 2018 to 2023, I estimate difference-in-difference models to assess the relationship between the enactment of M110 and property crime, violent crimes and drug related crimes in Oregon and its border states – Washington, Idaho, Nevada, and California. By evaluating one of the key objectives of M110, I contribute to the literature on the effects of progressive drug policy in the United States.

Author

• Paige Patton, Pennsylvania State University