Oregon Enacts Major Behavioral Health System Reforms

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek signed four bipartisan bills aimed at overhauling the state's mental health and addiction care system, with the laws taking effect on July 1, 2025. The legislation includes updates to civil commitment laws for earlier intervention (HB 2005), a $65 million investment to expand treatment capacity (HB 2059), $6 million in grants to recruit and retain behavioral health professionals (HB 2024), and the creation of a statewide youth substance abuse prevention plan (HB 3321). The Oregon Health Authority is directed to distribute funds to providers for infrastructure and workforce support. These measures establish frameworks for supporting adult behavioral health, preventing youth substance abuse, and increasing facility space and workforce capacity. Governor Kotek emphasized the comprehensive approach to ensuring equitable access to care and better crisis support. The bills represent a significant step toward addressing Oregon's mental health and addiction challenges.