Oregon's Joint Committee on Ways and Means made significant strides in budget management during its recent meeting on May 23, 2025. The committee approved a continuing resolution that allows state agencies without a signed budget to maintain operations at a level equal to one-eighth of the previous biennium's budget. This measure is crucial as it ensures that essential services can continue beyond June 2025, when current expenditure authority expires.

The resolution, which is effective until September 15, 2025, will enable agencies to operate while awaiting final budget approvals. The Department of Administrative Services will determine the spending amounts during this interim period, which will count towards the agencies' total budgets for the 2025-2027 biennium.

In addition to the continuing resolution, the committee discussed Senate Bill 5,547, which aims to rebalance the budgets for the Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Oregon Health Authority (OHA). This bill is expected to yield a total general fund savings of $64.5 million, primarily due to increased federal funding and one-time savings in various programs. However, these savings are somewhat offset by rising caseloads and associated costs.

Key highlights from the discussions included the importance of the Nurse Family Partnership Program and a specific funding set aside for clinical training within tribal nations, emphasizing the need for equitable healthcare access across Oregon. The committee's recommendations for both bills reflect a commitment to maintaining essential services while managing state resources effectively.

As the legislative session progresses, these decisions will play a pivotal role in shaping the state's financial landscape and ensuring that critical services remain available to Oregonians. The committee's actions underscore the importance of proactive budget management in addressing the needs of the community.