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Proposal Would Eliminate Prison for Most Marijuana Offenses

In the interest of saving money and taking pressure off the courts, a group of high-powered Oregon prosecutors proposed significant changes this week. And while some legislators are opposed to many of the terms, there’s a good chance the proposal could have positive effects on marijuana law enforcement.

According to the Statesman Journal, the Oregon District Attorneys Association proposed their plan at a conference in Oregon City. There they revealed the outline would save an estimated $600 million over the next ten years, in part by capping the state’s prison population at 14,600.

The attorneys were cautious not to affect any violent crime penalties but say the “business” of justice requires they do something about the thousands funneled into the system each year.

“(Reducing drug sentences) isn’t something we would do in a perfect world,” said Clackamas County DA John Foote. “But we think these are the most responsible options available.” [Read more…]

Feds Seize Patients’ Medical Marijuana Records

Your medical records are not likely something you share, even with those closest to you. What’s included in those records is your business and yours alone. But the state of Oregon was recently compelled to hand over an “untold number” of medical records to federal agents, according to the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, all in an effort to continue the federal government’s war on marijuana. [Read more…]

Marijuana Legalization Defeated in Oregon

As Washington and Colorado celebrate a victory in the war against the War on Drugs, the marijuana legalization effort in Oregon fell short of their goal, with a little more than half of the voters speaking out against Measure 80. The defeat is crushing to those who recognize marijuana as a harmless (and even helpful) plant, and the governments war against it a futile battle that achieves nothing but wasted money and the criminalization of everyday people. [Read more…]

Oregon Marijuana Legalization Not a “Sure Thing,” Yet

Measure 80 which would legalize recreational marijuana in Oregon is currently behind in the polling, according to the most recent Public Policy Polling survey showing 46% opposed and 43% in favor. But as history has shown us, polls leading up to voting day aren’t always an indication of success or failure. After all, despite having promising numbers throughout the year, California’s pot legislation failed with voters in November of last year. [Read more…]

Feds Say Portland Cops’ Taser Use/Policy is Vague and Reckless

The Oregonian is reporting Portland Police Chief Mike Reese knew long before the federal investigation that his policy was too permissive and was a tragedy (or several) waiting to happen, but that he failed to act. Now, the Department of Justice is forcing his hand to rewrite policy and tighten the reins on Taser use that far outpaces use in similar cities.

[Read more…]