Mark Zuckerberg donates 500,000$ to decriminalize drugs in Oregon

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has contributed half a million dollars to fund an initiative in the state of Oregon that would make personal, non-commercial possession of a controlled substance punishable by a fine of up to 100$. The challenge is to treat drug abuse as a health issue, not a criminal justice issue.

The question will be put to Oregon voters in November. The measure 110 intends to ensure that «personal non-commercial possession of a controlled substance does not exceed a Class E violation [maximum fine of 100 $ or health assessment] and establish a drug treatment and recovery program funded in part by state cannabis tax revenues and savings in state prisons.».

Cannabis has been legal in Oregon for adults since 2014. The initiative therefore concerns other prohibited substances such as heroin, cocaine or methamphetamine. «Individuals who manufacture or distribute illegal drugs would still be subject to criminal penalties».

In a separate initiative, Oregon will also propose legalizing psilocybin treatments.

Mark Zuckeberg made his donation via the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, the philanthropic foundation of the Chan-Zuckerberg couple. Other financial supporters include Drug Policy Action, the political arm of the Drug Policy Alliance, supported by investor and philanthropist George Soros.

«People with addictions need help, not punishment, and we're thrilled that so many people are stepping up to help have a more humane, equitable and effective approach to addiction in Oregon,» a declared Peter Zuckerman, campaign manager for Measure 110.