Oregon Cannabis Laws 2026: The Modern Era
2026 (March)
2026 (March): Governor Kotek signed HB 4142, also known as "Ryan's Law." This expanded the definition of medical use to include hospice and palliative care, ensuring terminal patients have protected access in medical facilities.
Federal Rescheduling Impact
2026 (April): Federal Rescheduling Impact: While qualifying medical marijuana was moved to Schedule III, recreational/adult-use products remain under Schedule I, meaning the OLCC's preparations for interstate commerce remain stalled.
2026 (Current Status)
2026 (Current Status): Adults 21+ can possess 2 ounces of flower in public and 1 ounce of concentrate. Home grow remains capped at 4 plants.
The Retail Standard: Measure 91 (2014–2019)
2014
2014: Voters approve Measure 91, legalizing recreational use.
2015
2015: Sales begin through existing medical dispensaries under an emergency order before the full retail system launches in 2016.
2019
2019: Governor Kate Brown signs SB 582, allowing Oregon to enter into agreements with other states for cannabis trade once federal law permits.
The Pioneer State (1973–1998)
The Oregon marijuana laws timeline is famously progressive.
1973
1973: Oregon becomes the first state in the U.S. to decriminalize small amounts of cannabis, making possession of under an ounce a civil violation.
1998
1998: Measure 67 passes, legalizing medical marijuana for patients with qualifying conditions.