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Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek's proposed two-year budget boost spending on three of her core issues — even if it crowds out some other priorities.

An Oregon Health & Science University study found states cannot slow the opioid crisis solely with more flexibility to use Medicaid funding for addiction treatment.

Despite an encouraging national dip in the past year, overdose deaths are still on the rise in many Western states as the epicenter of the nation’s continuing crisis shifts toward the Pacific Coast, where deadly fentanyl and also methamphetamine are finding more victims.

Counties will approach enforcement differently, providing yet another large-scale experiment in drug policy.

Prop. 36 pledges to send more people convicted of drug possession to treatment instead of prison. Behavioral health directors say that’s easier said than done with workforce shortages across the state.

The western spread of fentanyl continues to fuel regional variations in the number of people dying from drug overdoses, and Measure 110′s effects remain debated.

Oregon has ended its experiment with drug decriminalization. Starting Sept. 1, possession of small amounts of illicit substances are once again considered a misdemeanor crime.

Across Oregon, counties are receiving state funds to start ‘deflection’ programs. These are part of the now-reformed Measure 110’s mission to provide alternatives to the criminal justice system for people arrested on drug possession charges.

In less than a month, Oregon will end its nearly four-year experiment with drug decriminalization. Beginning Sept. 1, possession of small amounts of drugs will again be a misdemeanor crime.

Many California teens who deal with addiction don’t have access to evidence-based treatment. Health providers and advocates provided testimony to lawmakers this week on specific weak points in the system.

Abbey Stamp is taking on a new role that will put her at the heart of Oregon’s fentanyl overdose crisis – and the next chapter of the state’s effort to combat drug addiction.

State officials awarded $2.36 million to the project by Bay Area First Step, which will be the first of its kind in Curry County.