A new initiative aimed at improving youth care in Oregon is set to take shape, as discussions at the House Committee on Early Childhood and Human Services meeting on March 11, 2025, highlighted the urgent need for reform in the state’s approach to youth services. The committee is working on a program in collaboration with Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), and the Statewide Advisory Committee on Children (SOCAC).

The committee members expressed a strong desire to hear from service providers in the upcoming week, emphasizing that proposed changes could significantly enhance hiring practices and the overall quality of care for youth. Representative Walters pointed out that Oregon currently ranks last in the nation for youth services, a situation that is unacceptable. The committee is determined to reverse this trend and improve outcomes for children who are often placed in inappropriate settings, such as incarceration.

A key focus of the meeting was the role of OHSU in administering the new program. The committee discussed how OHSU's clinical expertise and data capabilities could enhance both individual evaluations of youth and broader program assessments. This collaboration aims to shift the focus from mere compliance with licensing requirements to a more clinically driven approach that prioritizes quality care.

As the committee moves forward, the integration of OHSU’s resources is seen as a vital step in addressing the pressing needs of Oregon's youth. The discussions reflect a commitment to making meaningful progress in the state’s youth services, with the hope that upcoming testimonies from providers will shed light on the necessary changes to achieve these goals. The committee's efforts are poised to have a lasting impact on the community, aiming to foster a more supportive environment for Oregon's children and families.