Bill > HB3511

This bill addresses public health concerns related to betel nuts, which are seeds from the areca palm commonly used as a stimulant. The Oregon Health Authority will develop a grant program to support community-based organizations in conducting public health campaigns about the negative health effects of betel nuts. These organizations must demonstrate knowledge of betel nut health risks and have strong community connections, and their campaigns must provide informational resources, create a user-friendly website, use culturally competent practices including multiple languages, and prioritize outreach to communities with high betel nut usage rates. Additionally, the bill requires the Oregon Medical Board and Oregon State Board of Nursing to train healthcare providers on betel nut health effects, and directs the Department of Education and Higher Education Coordinating Commission to incorporate betel nut health information into educational curricula. The Oregon Health Authority must submit a report by December 15, 2026, assessing the implementation and effectiveness of these public health campaigns. The bill includes emergency provisions and allocates $1,500,000 from the General Fund to support the program's implementation, with matching funds for participating state agencies. The emergency declaration means the bill will take effect immediately upon passage, emphasizing the urgent public health nature of the proposed interventions.

Health and Social Services

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3511