Multnomah County deflection program receives criticism as deadline approaches

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — In just about a month, a new Oregon law will re-criminalize small amounts of street drugs on the same day several counties begin deflection programs to give offenders the choice to undergo treatment rather than face jail time.

But as time runs out, Multnomah County commissioners continue to argue over what their deflection center should look like — especially after Chair Jessica Vega Pederson led months of closed-door meetings to develop her plan.

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