Frequently Asked Questions
Vote Yes on Measure 57, November 4, 2008
Who is supporting Measure 57?
Lots of the people you trust. Measure 57 has broad support from police officers, sheriffs, district attorneys and law enforcement across Oregon. Additionally, Measure 57 is supported by drug treatment providers and advocates for kids like Stand for Children, Oregon Education Association and many, many more.
For the most updated list, please visit supporters.
How does Measure 57 hold criminals accountable?
Measure 57 requires tougher sentences for property crimes and drug traffickers who prey on
Oregon's kids:
- For drug traffickers of cocaine, ecstasy, heroin, or methamphetamine (meth), prison sentences would increase to 58 to 130 months.
- For drug delivery to minors: 34 to 72 months for meth, cocaine, ecstasy, heroin to a minor.
- For repeat property offenders convicted of first-degree aggravated theft, first-degree burglary, third-degree robbery, identity theft or aggravated identity theft, prison sentences would increase to 24 months.
- For repeat property offenders convicted of property crimes, sentences would be increased to 18 months.
Required drug treatment for addicted offenders; harsher sentences for those who refuse treatment.
Measure 57 cracks down on crimes against the elderly and identity theft:
Increased sentences for theft against elderly: 16 to 45 months for stealing $10,000 or more from senior citizens 65 or older.
Makes mail theft a felony charge.
Increases sentences for repeat offenders of identity theft.
To fully compare the current system to the improvements under Measure 57, click here.
Why is addiction treatment so critical in reducing crime?
According to the Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC), 85% of incarcerated property offenders have a moderate to severe drug and/or alcohol problem, 49% re-offend after release. Because of limited resources and the relatively short length of prison time, currently only 12% participate in intensive substance abuse treatment.
Measure 57:
Creates drug treatment programs through the Department of Corrections (DOC) providing appropriate services to those who are at a high or medium risk of re-offending. This also includes those on probation, parole or post-prison supervision.
Provides funding for the treatment of drug addiction which is the cause of much property crime, and therefore provides real hope of reduced future victimization.
Measure 57 is also the only measure on the ballot that requires drug treatment and imposes penalties for drug-addicted offenders who refuse treatment.
How much is this going to cost?
Measure 57 is the significantly more cost-effective way to fight crime. Measure 57 is estimated to cost about $286 million per budget cycle when fully implemented. But Measure 61 will cost up to $300 million more per budget cycle, and won't stop the revolving door justice that continues the cycle of crime. Not only is Measure 57 a better way to fight crime but it's the most cost effective.