Salem, Oregon - In a historic move, Oregon Governor Sarah Thompson signed a series of new criminal justice reform bills into law on February 12, 2026, aimed at addressing systemic issues in the state's criminal legal system.One of the key bills signed into law is SB 1234, which mandates the use of body cameras for all law enforcement officers in the state. This measure is seen as a crucial step towards increasing transparency and accountability in police interactions with the public. Governor Thompson emphasized the importance of rebuilding trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.Another significant piece of legislation, HB 5678, aims to reform cash bail practices in Oregon. The new law eliminates cash bail for most misdemeanor offenses and low-level felonies, with judges now required to assess a defendant's flight risk and danger to the community when determining pretrial release conditions. This move is expected to reduce the disproportionate impact of cash bail on low-income individuals and communities of color.In addition to these reforms, Governor Thompson also signed SB 9876, which expands access to diversion programs for individuals with mental health and substance abuse issues. The bill establishes a statewide network of mental health and drug treatment courts to divert individuals away from the traditional criminal justice system and towards rehabilitative services."These new laws represent a significant step towards a fairer and more equitable criminal legal system in Oregon," Governor Thompson remarked during the bill signing ceremony. "We must continue to work towards dismantling systemic barriers to justice and ensuring that all individuals are treated with dignity and respect."The passage of these criminal justice reform bills comes after years of advocacy and grassroots organizing by community members, activists, and lawmakers in Oregon. The state is now poised to lead the way in implementing progressive and innovative reforms aimed at reducing mass incarceration and promoting rehabilitation and restorative justice.