The Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Public Safety convened on February 26, 2025, to address critical funding issues impacting Oregon's court system. The meeting focused on the rising costs of mandated services and the need for additional financial support to maintain essential operations.

The first significant topic discussed was the increasing expenses associated with court-mandated services, particularly language interpretation. Since 2018, interpreter costs have surged by 89%, reaching $6 million. The number of certified Spanish interpreters has decreased by approximately 25% since 2011, leading to challenges in meeting the state's interpreter needs. To address this, the court has begun contracting with more expensive out-of-state providers and has expanded remote interpretation services to mitigate travel costs. The committee heard a request for $7.5 million from the general fund to ensure these essential services continue without compromising other critical functions.

The second agenda item highlighted the financial struggles of the state court technology fund, which is vital for maintaining Oregon's court technology infrastructure. This fund, primarily supported by user fees and a percentage of court filing fees, has not kept pace with rising technology costs. The committee was informed that the fund covers about 25% of IT personnel expenses, with the remaining costs supported by the general fund. Due to a revenue shortfall threatening the stability of court technology systems, the court requested a transfer of the program to the general fund and an additional $2.3 million to sustain e-court services, including e-filing and online access to case information.

In conclusion, the subcommittee's discussions underscored the urgent need for increased funding to address the rising costs of court services and technology. The requests for additional general fund allocations aim to ensure that the court system can fulfill its constitutional and statutory responsibilities while maintaining critical services for the public. Further actions and follow-ups will be necessary to address these funding challenges effectively.