Concerns over mental health care in Oregon's correctional facilities took center stage during the Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Public Safety meeting on March 11, 2025. Officials highlighted significant challenges in providing adequate mental health services to incarcerated individuals, particularly in aging facilities that struggle with infrastructure limitations.

A representative from the Oregon Department of Corrections shared alarming statistics from a recent visit to the 2 Rivers Infirmary, where only one of twelve patients required acute care, while the others needed long-term memory care. This raises questions about the adequacy of mental health resources available in prisons, especially for those with serious mental illnesses (SMI) and high needs (MH3) clients, such as those diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

The discussion revealed that many facilities lack essential healthcare access on the first floor, forcing patients to navigate outdated infrastructure, including malfunctioning elevators and narrow cell doors that hinder mobility for those using wheelchairs or walkers. These physical barriers complicate the delivery of necessary care, particularly for acute patients.

The meeting also touched on the classification of mental health needs among incarcerated individuals. Approximately 8% of the population is designated with serious mental illness, which significantly impacts their daily functioning. However, officials clarified that while mental health ratings are assessed, the potential threat posed by individuals is evaluated separately, raising concerns about the overall safety and management of these patients.

As the committee continues to address these pressing issues, the need for improved mental health services and facility upgrades remains critical for the well-being of Oregon's incarcerated population. Further documentation on assessment methods for mental health and behavioral risks is expected to be shared in follow-up discussions.