Oregon advocates push for swift implementation of Senate Bill 909 for disabled children

The Senate Committee on Human Services convened on February 27, 2025, to discuss critical legislation impacting children with disabilities in Oregon. The meeting highlighted ongoing challenges and proposed solutions aimed at improving support systems for these vulnerable populations.

The session began with testimony from Jessa, an advocate deeply invested in the implementation of Senate Bill 1557. She expressed disappointment over the slow progress since the bill's passage, noting that the Oregon Health Authority has contracted two organizations to conduct family interviews and write reports at a cost of $500,000. Jessa criticized the lack of transparency and communication regarding the funding and implementation of services for disabled children, warning that failure to prioritize these needs could lead to increased rates of homelessness, suicide, and unemployment. She urged the state to honor its commitments and ensure that all disabled children have access to necessary services.

Following Jessa, Callie Ross from Advocates for Disability Supports spoke about the transformative impact of the "Culture of YES" initiative, which aims to address inequities in support for children with serious emotional disturbances. Ross emphasized the importance of Senate Bill 909, which seeks to streamline access to home and community-based services (HCBS) for these children. She highlighted that HCBS programs can significantly reduce hospitalization costs and improve outcomes by keeping children in their communities. Ross called for support of SB 909, framing it as a necessary step towards a more equitable and efficient support system.

Andrew Herndon, a social media influencer and advocate, also voiced his support for SB 909. He emphasized the bill's potential to create a more integrated support system for children with disabilities, ensuring that services are accessible regardless of the type of disability.

The meeting underscored the urgency of addressing the needs of disabled children in Oregon, with advocates calling for immediate action and funding to prevent further societal issues. The discussions reflected a collective commitment to fostering a culture of support and inclusion for all children, emphasizing the moral and fiscal responsibility of the state to act decisively.