Oregon Crime Fighting Act (IP 50)

Why Oregon Needs the Crime Fighting Act

The Oregon Crime Fighting Act (IP 50) ends “catch and release,” empowers cities and counties to fight crime, and adequately funds jails.

In September 2023, two 17-year-olds were stabbed on a Portland MAX train. The attacker, Adrian Cummins, had a history of violent crimes, including domestic abuse and sexual assault. Yet he had been released thanks to Oregon’s “catch and release” system.

Catch and release was enshrined into Oregon law during a legislative session shrouded in a lack of transparency. SB 48, passed in the 2021 legislative session, which was held virtually, received minimal public input. The bill allowed individuals charged with up to 150 felonies to be released on personal recognizance. That means they can be set free without bail and without ever appearing before a judge for arraignment. Under SB 48, individuals charged with up to 150 different felony offenses can be released on personal recognizance, meaning they are set free without bail and without ever appearing before a judge for arraignment.

What the Crime Fighting Act Does

The Crime Fighting Act has three main components. Each component makes Oregon communities safer by ending bad practices and prioritizing public safety funding:

  • Ending Catch and Release

The Crimefighting Act ends catch and release by requiring defendants charged with felonies and Class A misdemeanors be held in custody until arraignment, where a judge reviews their criminal history and determines whether they should be detained or released pending trial.

  • Empowering Cities and Counties to Fight Crime

IP 50 would also give cities and counties the authority to enact local ordinances that address crime in their communities, including measures related to illegal drug use and other public safety concerns.

  • Adequately Funding Jails

The Crime Fighting Act also mandates the State of Oregon provide the funding necessary to house defendants held pending trial on felony and Class A misdemeanor charges, ensuring that the system has the capacity to operate effectively.

Take Action

Believe Oregon deserves safe communities? Here’s how to help:

  • Sign the Petition

Your signature helps IP 50 reach the ballot in November.

  • Donate

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Tell friends, family, and neighbors about this initiative and why it matters for Oregonians.

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