Oregon Eligibility Partnership addresses 11000 childcare applications waitlist and staffing needs

The Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Human Services convened on March 27, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) and its current operational challenges. A significant focus of the meeting was the extensive waitlist for childcare applications, which currently stands at approximately 11,000, highlighting the urgent need for additional funding to address this backlog.

During the session, it was reported that OEP has 2,620 funded positions, with 320 additional equivalent positions within area agencies on aging. However, the agency is currently operating at only 56% of its workload model, indicating a substantial gap in staffing relative to the demands placed on the system. The majority of these positions are eligibility workers responsible for processing applications for various state services, including food benefits and healthcare.

The discussion also touched on the pressures faced by staff, many of whom are managing workloads significantly heavier than in previous years. The implementation of new programs has further complicated their responsibilities, necessitating ongoing training and system updates. Despite efforts to increase efficiency, the need for more personnel remains critical.

The committee explored funding strategies for non-budgeted positions, with officials explaining that these roles are currently supported through reallocations within the service and supply budget and enhanced federal funding. The potential for changes in federal funding rules was also raised, with concerns about the sustainability of the current federal match rates for Medicaid eligibility processes.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the pressing need for additional resources to support the Oregon Eligibility Partnership and improve service delivery to Oregonians. The committee's discussions highlighted the importance of addressing the staffing shortages and the implications of federal funding on the state's ability to meet its eligibility processing demands. Further legislative action may be necessary to ensure that the agency can effectively serve its constituents and reduce the growing waitlist for essential services.