In a recent meeting of the Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Education, Kendra Beck from the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) presented an overview of the Governor's recommended budget for the Mental Health Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for the 2025-2027 biennium. This budget aims to address several pressing issues within the agency, which oversees the licensing of professional counselors, therapists, and psychologists in Oregon.

Beck highlighted that the number of new licensees has been on the rise over the past decade, a trend that has continued through the COVID-19 pandemic, largely due to the expansion of telehealth services. This increase has led to heightened workloads for existing staff, compounded by ongoing turnover issues attributed to the demands of the job and the relatively low classifications of licensee staff.

To tackle these challenges, the Governor's budget proposal includes funding for two additional positions and the reclassification of two existing roles within the agency. This move is intended to alleviate the pressure on staff and improve operational efficiency.

Another significant concern raised was the transition to a new licensing system in 2021, which has not met the agency's needs. Beck noted that the current vendor has been identified as a risk, affecting both MHRA staff and licensees. To address this, the budget includes one-time general funding to facilitate a switch to a new vendor, ensuring that the agency can better serve its stakeholders.

Additionally, the Board of Licensed Social Workers is also seeking a new licensing system, and the budget proposes sharing planning costs between the two agencies to streamline this process. This initiative is part of a broader behavioral health strategy aligned with the Governor's priorities, emphasizing the importance of enhancing customer service and support within the mental health sector.

Overall, the MHRA's budget reflects a proactive approach to managing the increasing demands on mental health services in Oregon, with a focus on improving staffing and technological capabilities. The agency's revenues are reported to be healthy, with expectations of increased licensing and related revenues in the upcoming biennium. As discussions continue, the outcomes of these budget proposals will be crucial for the future of mental health regulation in the state.