The Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) is set to receive a significant budget boost, with the governor's recommended budget for 2025 reaching $2.7 billion, marking a 14% increase from the previous biennium. This budget, primarily funded by the general fund, supports nearly 5,000 positions and aims to enhance services for the state's incarcerated population.

Key highlights from the budget include funding for three additional body scanners at the Coffee Creek Correctional Facility, bringing the total to five. This move is part of DOC's commitment to improving security and safety within its facilities. Additionally, the budget allocates $4.5 million to address the needs of Oregon's rapidly aging prison population and to make essential repairs to the state penitentiary.

Allison Daniel from the Department of Administrative Services emphasized that the budget supports current programs while also addressing emerging issues identified by the legislature. One of the top priorities is implementing recommendations from a gender-responsive work group established in 2022, which aims to improve the treatment of incarcerated women.

The budget breakdown reveals that personal services and supplies make up the majority of expenditures, with significant investments in health services and operational security. The DOC's budget has seen steady growth, driven by inflation and increased service charges, while federal funds contribute to rehabilitation and training programs for adults in custody.

As the committee prepares for public testimony scheduled for Thursday, the focus remains on ensuring that the DOC can effectively manage its responsibilities while addressing the evolving needs of its population. The final budget forecast is expected next month, which will further shape the agency's financial planning.