In a pivotal meeting held on April 17, 2025, the Oregon Legislature's Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Public Safety gathered to discuss critical funding for the Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ). The atmosphere was charged with urgency as various stakeholders voiced their support for the DOJ's budget, emphasizing the essential services it provides to the state's most vulnerable populations.

The session began with a passionate plea from a senior assistant attorney general, who highlighted the pressing need for increased funding to support the daily work of assistant attorneys general. Representing the Oregon Association of Justice Attorneys, she underscored the importance of having more in-house attorneys who are already familiar with state operations, which would save both time and taxpayer money. "Current funding levels do not adequately support the legal and programmatic work needed to best serve the people of Oregon," she stated, urging the committee to approve the proposed policy option packages that would enhance the DOJ's capabilities.

Chief of Police Rick Stoppow from Eastern Oregon shared his perspective on the challenges faced by small law enforcement agencies. He described the strain on resources as they tackle organized crime, including drug trafficking and human trafficking. Stoppow expressed strong support for the attorney general's proposal to create regional DOJ teams, which would provide much-needed legal support and specialized expertise to local departments. "For small departments like mine, that kind of support can often mean the difference between a stalled case and a successful one," he explained.

Esther Nelson Garrett, founder of a nonprofit serving human trafficking survivors, brought a deeply personal narrative to the discussion. As a survivor herself, she emphasized the life-saving nature of the services funded by the DOJ budget. "We are literally fighting for their lives," she declared, urging the committee to maintain funding for essential services that support survivors of trafficking and domestic violence. Her testimony highlighted the alarming increase in referrals to her program, particularly among younger victims, and the critical need for comprehensive care.

Graham Treanor, president of the Oregon AFL-CIO, echoed the sentiments of his fellow speakers, advocating for a robust DOJ that can effectively protect workers' rights and consumer protections. He pointed out the disparity in resources compared to other states, noting that Oregon's Consumer Protection Division is significantly underfunded. "A strong, well-resourced DOJ is fundamental to protecting workers, particularly in a moment where our values, laws, and practices in Oregon are under attack," he stated.

As the meeting progressed, the urgency for action became increasingly clear. The testimonies painted a vivid picture of the challenges faced by both legal professionals and the communities they serve. The collective call for a well-funded DOJ resonated throughout the room, emphasizing that the decisions made in this meeting would have lasting implications for the safety and well-being of Oregonians.

In conclusion, the discussions at the subcommittee meeting underscored a critical moment for the Oregon Department of Justice. With strong support from various sectors, the path forward hinges on the committee's commitment to adequately fund the DOJ, ensuring that it can continue to provide essential services and protect the most vulnerable members of the community. The echoes of this meeting will undoubtedly resonate in the lives of many Oregonians for years to come.