Salem, Oregon — Oregon has taken a significant step to curtail illegal drug use on public transit by classifying such activities as a crime under the state law known as Interfering with Public Transportation. This legislative change, effected through the recent approval of Senate Bill 1553, categorizes the ingestion, inhalation, or any method of drug consumption on transit vehicles as a Class A misdemeanor, carrying penalties that could include nearly a year in jail or fines up to $6,250.
The enactment of this policy came into effect on January 1, 2025, marking a stringent shift in how authorities intend to manage public safety across transit networks. During a press conference held on January 7, officials from various departments including TriMet and local law enforcement agencies underscored their commitment to enforcing this law rigorously.
TriMet General Manager Sam Desue Jr. emphasized the unique need for such a law focused on transit environments, explaining that confined spaces like buses and trains compound the risks and impact of drug use. “Such environments force proximity between commuters, making it impossible to avoid second-hand exposure to harmful substances like fentanyl, which could be smoked or otherwise consumed,” Desue noted, expressing relief over the new legal protections designated for daily commuters.
Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez also expressed enthusiastic support for the bill, stressing its necessity for commuter health and safety. “When people compromise the air quality on public transportation by smoking any illegal drugs, they endanger everyone. This law ensures that actions have serious consequences,” Vasquez explained, highlighting the health risks associated with second-hand exposure to drug substances.
The enforcement of Senate Bill 1553 is supported by another legislative measure, House Bill 4002, which was passed earlier in 2024. While House Bill 4002 recriminalized the possession of small amounts of hard drugs as a Class B misdemeanor, Senate Bill 1553 focuses explicitly on the use of such substances within the transit system, combining potential jail time with fines and access to treatment programs.
For those who witness drug use, TriMet advises passengers to report any incidents to their 24-hour security hotline. In cases where time is of the essence, they encourage immediate contact with an operator or direct communication with emergency services.
In addition to the implementation of Senate Bill 1553, TriMet has enhanced its security measures onboard and around transit facilities. From increasing personnel dedicated to safety and security functions to improving physical infrastructure such as lighting and security cameras at stations, efforts are ongoing to bolster the sense of security for all transit users.
These actions reflect the collaboration of various stakeholders — including the Oregon Transit Association, the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 757, and legislative sponsors such as state Sen. Kate Lieber and Governor Tina Kotek. Their united efforts aim to ensure that Oregon’s public transport system remains a reliable and safe option for everyone, including families, essential workers, and those with limited mobility.
For additional security information and updates from TriMet regarding their safety measures and personnel, the public is encouraged to visit the TriMet website.
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