SALEM, Ore. – Oregon lawmakers have passed significant legislation to enhance behavioral health care access and workforce support. These measures received bipartisan backing.
Rep. Hai Pham emphasized the importance of these policies, saying they will “keep patients safe, and save lives.” Sen. Lisa Reynolds highlighted the investment in behavioral health services as crucial for setting Oregonians on a path to healthy lives.
Key bills include SB 1546, which mandates AI chatbot platforms to adopt safety protocols for users expressing self-harm thoughts, and HB 4083, aimed at reducing barriers for behavioral health workers. Several bills, such as SB 1547 and HB 4083, have already been signed by the Governor.
Recent data reveals Oregon’s pressing behavioral health crisis, with one million residents affected by mental health and substance use disorders. Additionally, 32 out of 36 counties face severe provider shortages.
Pham and Reynolds are dedicated to further expanding access to these essential services.
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