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Bill

HB 2024

Relating to the behavioral health workforce; and declaring an emergency.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Darin Harbick and 4 co-sponsors

Oregon law expands behavioral health workforce through recruitment and training initiatives to address provider shortages and increase access to mental health and addiction treatment services.

Chapter 561, (2025 Laws): Effective date July 24, 2025.
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Bill Summary · HB 2024

Legislative bill overview

HB 2024 addresses Oregon's behavioral health workforce shortage by implementing measures to recruit, train, and retain mental health and substance use disorder treatment professionals. The bill was signed into law on July 24, 2025, and became effective immediately due to an emergency declaration.

Why is this important

Oregon faces a critical shortage of behavioral health providers, contributing to delayed access to mental health and addiction treatment services. This legislation aims to expand the workforce pipeline during a public health crisis where demand for these services significantly exceeds available providers.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanisms: The bill's emergency status and implementation timeline may raise questions about how services are funded and whether existing budget allocations were redirected or new revenue sources were identified
  • Scope of workforce solutions: Critics may debate whether the bill adequately addresses root causes (low pay, burnout, working conditions) or relies too heavily on training pipeline expansion
  • Implementation feasibility: The rapid July 24 effective date could create challenges for agencies and organizations in establishing new programs, hiring staff, or distributing resources quickly

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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