Oregon's Hidden Weapon Against Gun Violence: Why Aren't We Using It More?
Oregon has a powerful tool to fight gun violence, but not everyone is using it. In 2017, the state passed a law that lets police or family members ask a court to temporarily stop someone from accessing guns if they're a danger to themselves or others. This is called an extreme risk protection order (ERPO). It's a way to step in before something terrible happens.
The Law Is Working
Studies show that these orders can save lives. In Connecticut, using them more often led to a 14% drop in gun suicides. But in Oregon, some counties are using this tool much more than others.
- Deschutes County: 19.4 petitions per 100,000 people in 2024
- Multnomah County: 2.4 petitions per 100,000 people in 2024
A Nationwide Issue
This isn't just an Oregon problem. Other states have the same issue. Florida and Connecticut use these orders a lot, but some states barely use them at all. The key is how the law is put into action.
- Training for police officers makes a big difference.
- In Florida, one county tripled its use of these orders after training its deputies.
Success in Deschutes County
Deschutes County shows what can happen when a county puts effort into using this law.
- Officers get regular training.
- They work with mental health experts.
- This makes them more confident in using the law.
Improvements in Portland
The Portland Police Bureau is also trying to improve.
- They've started training patrol officers to recognize when an ERPO might help.
- They're also reaching out to the community to spread the word.
The Bottom Line
ERPOs can save lives. Every time we don't use this tool, we're taking a risk we don't need to. With better training, community education, and follow-through, Portland can make sure this life-saving tool is used to its fullest potential.
It's time to make sure this hidden weapon against gun violence isn't left on the shelf.
