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Oregon Drug Take-Back Bill Becomes Law


Pharmaceutical companies held responsible to collect unused medications
 
Oregon joined five states with a new law that requires drug manufacturers to pay for and run a statewide drug take-back program. The law, signed by Governor Kate Brown and championed by Representative Sheri Schouten, will ensure that every community in Oregon has free, convenient access to safe drug disposal. The law takes effect in September 2019 and the program must be operational by July 1, 2021.
 

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Waldo Lake 

Waldo Lake and Crater Lake could get added state protection from DEQ

Enterprise, OR—Waldo Lake and Crater Lake, two of Oregon’s treasured bodies of water, could get additional state protections after action taken by the state Environmental Quality Commission.

The commission approved a recommendation by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality to begin the process of designating the lakes as Outstanding Resource Waters of the state. Such a process to consider designation of these waters would include development of rules that would further protect the lakes from degradation of their water quality.

“These are precious, pristine resources for Oregon and the rest of the world to enjoy,” said DEQ Director Richard Whitman. “It is our responsibility and obligation to ensure they are protected for future generations.”

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