Bill > HB2678

This bill aims to improve services for Oregonians with complex medical needs through several key provisions. The Department of Human Services will establish an Exceptional Home Care Worker Certification program to provide specialized training and potentially higher payment rates for home care workers supporting individuals with complex behavioral health needs. The Oregon Department of Administrative Services will study creating a new classification for case managers serving seniors and people with physical disabilities who have acute behavioral health needs. The Department of Human Services and Oregon Health Authority will conduct a comprehensive study to identify funding pathways for behavioral health services, develop a shared functional needs assessment tool, and explore incorporating housing benefit eligibility applications into the Oregon Eligibility (ONE) system. Additionally, the Department of Human Services will develop a data-driven argument for expanding service priority levels for medical assistance, with a focus on seniors and individuals with physical disabilities. All study reports are to be submitted to legislative committees by September 15, 2026, and the study-related sections of the bill will be repealed on January 2, 2027, ensuring these are time-limited investigations aimed at potential future policy improvements.

Health and Social Services

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB2678