The Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Public Safety convened on March 18, 2025, to discuss critical funding and staffing initiatives aimed at enhancing public defense services in Oregon. A significant focus of the meeting was on the implementation of Senate Bill 337, which mandates that by 2031, 20% of public defense representation must be provided through state employees, increasing to 30% by 2035.

To meet these goals, the agency plans to expand its state trial level public defender offices, which are essential for addressing the needs of underserved communities. The proposal includes adding 84 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions over the next two years, comprising 40 public defenders, 40 support staff, and several managerial roles. This staffing increase is designed to ensure that legal representation is accessible to individuals in areas with significant unrepresented populations.

During the meeting, concerns were raised regarding the adequacy of administrative support for the new public defenders. The agency clarified that the administrative staff would include various roles such as legal secretaries and program analysts, which are crucial for the effective functioning of the new positions.

Another key topic was the stabilization of hourly rates for public defenders, as outlined in Senate Bill 337. An economic survey has led to proposed increases in hourly rates for attorneys and investigators, with rates set to match market standards. However, disparities were noted between contracted public defenders and state employees, prompting discussions on how to address these inconsistencies.

The agency also presented a support package that includes the addition of 15 positions across various functions, such as budget management and human resources, to enhance overall agency performance. Furthermore, adjustments were proposed to separate contracted public defenders from state employees within the agency's structure, aiming for clearer operational divisions.

The discussions highlighted the ongoing efforts to strengthen public defense in Oregon, ensuring that legal representation is not only available but also equitable across different programs. The committee's decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the future of public defense services in the state.