LOC News
Omnibus Behavioral Health Package Moves Out of Committee
Legislation reforming Oregon’s civil commitment procedures passed out of the Joint Committee on Addiction and Community Safety Response this week and is scheduled for further consideration by the Committee on Ways and Means.
HB 2005A clarifies that a person afflicted with a mental disorder can be civilly committed if they are a danger to themselves and others and unable to provide for their basic personal needs. The bill further establishes that threats or conduct that constituted a danger to self or others is likely to occur in the foreseeable future as opposed to imminently or in a specific time frame. Oregon’s current civil commitment process has historically prevented people requiring behavioral healthcare in a custodial environment from receiving it, often with tragic results.
HB 2005A also streamlines the siting process for secure treatment facilities and crisis stabilization centers. The bill prohibits local governments from requiring conditional use permits for facilities located in urban growth boundaries if the facility is licensed by the Oregon Health Authority.
While the bill contains civil commitment reform supported by the LOC, other provisions may need additional work in subsequent legislatives sessions, and it remains unclear if sufficient funding will be appropriated to bring the policy objectives in the bill to fruition.
Contact: Scott Winkels, Lobbyist - swinkels@orcities.org
Last Updated 6/20/25