Concerns over long-term care policies took center stage during the Oregon Senate Committee on Human Services meeting on March 18, 2025. Lawmakers and stakeholders engaged in a heated discussion about the state of care facilities, with some describing residents as "walking around like zombies," highlighting the urgent need for reform.

Senator Gelser Blouin expressed gratitude to those who contributed to the work group, emphasizing the importance of allowing providers to voice their concerns. "It's not fair in the record if we don't give the providers the opportunity to state on the record that they still have concerns moving forward," she stated, underscoring the committee's commitment to transparency and thoroughness.

The meeting was marked by time constraints, with members needing to leave for other commitments. Despite this, Senator Gelser Blouin assured attendees that she would remain to listen to additional testimonies, indicating the committee's dedication to addressing the complexities of long-term care legislation.

Libby Battling from the Oregon Health Care Association voiced opposition to the proposed dash-3 amendment, citing significant policy provisions that raised concerns. "These were hard conversations," she noted, acknowledging the shared priority of ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in long-term care.

As discussions continue, the committee plans to hold at least one more public hearing to further explore these critical issues, signaling a proactive approach to improving the state's long-term care system. The outcome of these discussions could have lasting implications for the quality of care provided to Oregon's most vulnerable populations.