The Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Public Safety convened on June 10, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding mental health services funding and the accountability of the Oregon Health Authority (OHA). The meeting highlighted concerns about the effective allocation of resources intended for community mental health support.

During the session, members expressed a strong desire for budget appropriations to reach local communities rather than being absorbed by the OHA, which has faced scrutiny for its financial management. One member emphasized the importance of ensuring that funds are not lost in what was described as the "OHA abyss," advocating for transparency and accountability in the use of these resources.

A significant point of discussion was the capacity of mental health services in Oregon. Several committee members agreed that enhancing these services is crucial, with one co-chair noting the need to monitor the flow of funds closely. However, concerns were raised about the OHA's past performance, with calls for strict oversight measures to accompany any additional funding. One member pointed out that the agency had previously lost track of substantial amounts of money, making it difficult to justify further financial support without clear accountability.

The committee also discussed the lack of formal reporting requirements for the OHA regarding the use of allocated funds. While there is no mandate for the agency to report back to the committee, members acknowledged the possibility of requesting updates voluntarily. This lack of oversight has contributed to a general mistrust of the OHA's financial practices, particularly regarding mental health funding for veterans.

As the meeting concluded, the committee underscored the importance of rebuilding trust with the OHA by demonstrating responsible spending of allocated funds. The discussions set the stage for ongoing scrutiny of the agency's financial practices as the committee moves forward with its budget considerations.