Oregon: A Leader in Cannabis Policy Reform
Oregon has been at the forefront of cannabis policy reform for decades. In 1973, it became the first state to decriminalize cannabis possession, reducing penalties to a simple fine. Voters later approved medical cannabis in 1998 through Ballot Measure 67.
In 2014, Oregon became the fourth state to legalize adult-use cannabis, allowing possession, home cultivation, and retail sales. However, challenges such as overproduction remain, and employment protections for cannabis users are still lacking.
Oregon Governor Pardons Nearly 50,000 for Cannabis Possession
In November 2022, then-Gov. Kate Brown pardoned 47,144 individuals convicted of simple cannabis possession and forgave over $14 million in fines. The move aimed to remove barriers to housing, employment, and education for those affected.
This mass pardon applied to state-level convictions for one ounce or less of cannabis, provided the individual was 21+ and had no other charges. While some older cases lacked data for automatic pardons, eligible individuals can still petition for expungement.
This decision followed President Biden’s federal pardons and was praised as a step toward correcting past cannabis-related injustices.
Oregon Bill Proposes Limited Employment Protections
Despite cannabis legalization, Oregon employees still face workplace drug testing that penalizes cannabis use. Other states, such as Nevada, California, and New York, have enacted employment protections for cannabis consumers, but Oregon has yet to do so.
House Bill 3428 aims to protect healthcare workers from employment discrimination for testing positive for cannabis—unless they are suspected of impairment on the job. The bill also calls for further studies on cannabis use and impairment detection.
Oregon Legalizes Future Interstate Cannabis Commerce
In 2019, Gov. Kate Brown signed a bill allowing interstate cannabis commerce once federal law permits it. This would enable Oregon to export and import cannabis with other legal states, addressing oversupply issues and helping businesses stabilize prices.
Currently, no federal policy allows for this, but once cannabis commerce is legalized at the national level, Oregon will be positioned to expand its cannabis market beyond state borders.
Stay Connected
For updates on Oregon’s cannabis policy reforms, subscribe to Marijuana Dispensary to stay informed about legislative changes and industry developments.