The Joint Committee on Ways and Means convened on May 30, 2025, to discuss the state budget, with a significant focus on funding for law enforcement agencies, particularly the Oregon State Police (OSP). The meeting highlighted concerns from various representatives regarding the adequacy of current funding levels in relation to the growing population and increasing demands on law enforcement.

The session began with a representative expressing support for the budget but emphasizing the need for increased funding for state police, particularly in rural areas where response times can be critically delayed. This sentiment was echoed by several colleagues who pointed out that the number of state troopers has not kept pace with the state's population growth, which has more than doubled since the 1980s.

Representative Owens voiced strong opposition to the budget, citing a trend of local cities cutting police funding due to budget constraints, which has left rural areas with insufficient law enforcement coverage. He noted that some counties have vast areas with minimal law enforcement presence, raising public safety concerns.

Senator Breese Heiferson and others reiterated that the issue is not confined to rural areas, as urban centers like Portland have also seen significant cuts to police budgets. They stressed the need for a comprehensive discussion on how to adequately fund law enforcement across the state.

Several representatives, including Senator Manning and Senator Brock Smith, highlighted the urgent need for more state troopers, particularly in rural regions where response times can exceed 45 minutes. They called for a reevaluation of budget priorities to ensure public safety is adequately addressed.

Despite the concerns raised, some members, including Representative Gomberg, expressed their support for the budget while acknowledging the need for future discussions on law enforcement funding. However, others, like Senator McLean and Senator Bronwyn, indicated they would vote against the budget, arguing that it fails to meet the necessary funding levels for effective policing.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the ongoing challenges in balancing budgetary constraints with the need for adequate public safety resources. The committee members agreed that further discussions are essential to address these pressing issues and ensure that law enforcement can effectively serve the needs of all Oregonians.