Sen. Lisa Reynolds

Maddy summarySB 528 allocates state funds to support three additional regional health equity coalitions, expanding the statewide total to 13 coalitions. It directly affects community-based organizations working to address health disparities in underserved areas across the state. The bill declares a fiscal emergency effective July 1, 2025, to expedite funding for these coalitions. This policy change focuses on increasing resources for local health equity initiatives without altering existing program structures.

] Appropriates moneys from the General Fund to the [ Higher Education Coordinating Commission ] Oregon Department of Administrative Services for distribution to [ Oregon State University ] the Human Access Project for harmful algal bloom mitigation. Takes effect on the 91st day following adjournment sine die.

Exempts a county or other entity that operates a nurse-family partnership program from paying the nonfederal share of the costs of targeted case management services provided by the program to medical assistance recipients. Declares an emergency, effective on passage.

] Requires respite care services to be provided through the state medical assistance program to provide relief to [ unpaid caregivers of individuals under the age of 26 who have complex mental health or substance use-related needs ] children or youth under the age of 26 who have complex behavioral health needs or an intellectual or developmental disability and to the caregivers of such children or youth . Directs the Oregon Health Authority to seek any necessary federal approval. Becomes operative on the date that notice of federal approval is received. Takes effect on the 91st day following adjournment sine die.

Proposes an amendment to the Oregon Constitution to establish a fundamental right to a clean, safe and healthy environment. Refers the proposed amendment to the people for their approval or rejection at the next regular general election held throughout this state.

Requires the Department of Human Services to update its 2022 estimate of costs to implement youth experiencing homelessness programs. Requires the Department of Human Services and the Housing and Community Services Department to study options for allocating 30 percent of their respective budgets in the 2027-2029 biennium toward reducing the number of youth aging into adult homelessness. Directs the Department of Human Services to submit findings to the interim committees of the Legislative Assembly related to housing and human services not later than September 15, 2026. Sunsets on January 2, 2027. Expands eligibility for emergency housing.

Maddy summarySB 738 changes eligibility rules for college tuition waivers for youth who have been in foster care. It lowers the age limit from 14 to 10 years old for foster youth to qualify for the waiver, and adjusts the required period they must have been in foster care. The bill directly affects foster youth transitioning to higher education who previously did not meet the age or care duration requirements. This policy change expands access to tuition waivers for more young adults who have experienced foster care.

Appropriates moneys to be used for funding outreach regarding federal earned income tax credits and other tax benefits and to provide tax navigation and preparation to low-income individuals. Declares an emergency, effective July 1, 2025.

Increases the amount of the earned income tax credit. [ Provides that a credit is available to all adults, including childless adults, over 18. ] Provides that the credit may be paid quarterly, in advance, and is not subject to garnishment. Applies to tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2026. Extends the sunset for the credit. Takes effect on the 91st day following adjournment sine die.

Appropriates moneys to the Department of Early Learning and Care out of the General Fund to expand or sustain Healthy Families Oregon home visiting services.