Bill > SB729

This bill amends existing Oregon law to enhance mental health service accessibility for individuals with disabilities by prohibiting public bodies, community mental health programs, medical providers, education providers, and coordinated care organizations from denying mental health assessment, treatment, or services based on an individual having an intellectual or developmental disability. The bill removes the previous age restriction that previously limited this protection to individuals under 21 years old, making the access to mental health services more inclusive. Additionally, the bill expands the definition of "education provider" to include various educational institutions such as school districts, the Oregon School for the Deaf, youth corrections education programs, public charter schools, education service districts, recovery schools, and state-operated educational programs. The legislation also requires the Oregon Health Authority, Department of Human Services, Department of Education, Oregon Medical Board, and other health licensing agencies to adopt rules to implement these provisions. The bill is set to take effect on the 91st day after the adjournment of the 2025 regular session of the Eighty-third Legislative Assembly.

Education, Health and Social Services

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB729