Oregon Youth Authority reveals $500M budget for youth services and behavioral health support

The Oregon Youth Authority (OYA) presented its budget during a recent meeting of the Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Public Safety, highlighting significant investments aimed at improving services for youth in the state. The approved budget for the 2023-2025 biennium totals approximately $500 million, with $400 million allocated from the general fund. Notably, around 72% of this budget is dedicated to direct care and services for youth, underscoring the agency's commitment to addressing the needs of vulnerable populations.

Key investments in the budget include $17.1 million for a new rate model for behavioral rehabilitation services, which aims to enhance the sustainability of service providers. Additionally, $2 million has been earmarked for new positions focused on victim services, human resources, and youth mental health programming. However, the budget also reflects a reduction of $10.4 million in special pay funding for community residential treatment beds.

The OYA expressed gratitude for the legislative support, which has allowed the agency to make strides in various areas, including expanding its network of behavioral health providers and addressing deferred maintenance across facilities. The budget adjustments are expected to improve financial stability for service providers and enhance the quality of care for youth.

A significant focus of the meeting was on equity and the need for culturally responsive services. The agency is committed to addressing disparities, particularly for youth of color who are overrepresented in the justice system. The budget includes dedicated positions for behavioral health specialists at correctional facilities, aimed at improving mental health support and reducing incidents of self-harm and violence among youth.

The OYA also discussed ongoing projects, such as the modernization of the Juvenile Automated Case Management System (JAGES), which will benefit not only the OYA but also juvenile justice partners statewide. Capital projects funded by the budget will address deferred maintenance and create safer environments for youth and staff, with specific attention to equity issues for female youth at the Oak Creek Youth Correctional Facility.

As the OYA moves forward with these initiatives, the agency remains focused on its mission to provide effective and equitable services to all youth in its care, ensuring that the needs of the community are met with compassion and professionalism.