Oregon Committee Tackles 11000 Unclassified Offenders During Backlog Hearing

Oregon's Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Public Safety convened on May 7, 2025, to address a pressing issue: the significant backlog in the classification of registered offenders. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for funding and resources to process over 11,000 unclassified individuals, which poses potential risks to public safety.

The discussion centered around the use of the static 99R risk assessment tool, which is employed for approximately 90% of registered offenders. This tool helps categorize individuals based on their risk levels, with higher classifications allowing for more proactive public notifications and targeted law enforcement efforts. However, the remaining 10% of registrants require in-person evaluations by licensed professionals, further complicating the backlog situation.

Co-Chair Evans raised critical questions about the public benefits of maintaining the current classification system, suggesting that treating all unclassified offenders as high-risk could streamline resources. The response emphasized that proper classification is essential for effective law enforcement, allowing them to focus on high-risk individuals who have a significantly higher recidivism rate compared to low-risk offenders.

The committee acknowledged the historical backlog, attributing it to insufficient funding and resources. Co-Chair Evans expressed a commitment to finding a solution, urging the board to present a clear plan for addressing the backlog and securing necessary funding. The urgency of this issue was echoed by committee members, who voiced concerns about the potential dangers of having unclassified offenders in the community.

As the meeting progressed, the focus remained on developing a budget plan that would enable the agency to eliminate the backlog and enhance public safety. The discussions underscored the importance of timely classification and the need for legislative support to ensure that the public is adequately informed about potential risks in their communities. The committee's next steps will be crucial in determining how effectively Oregon can manage this significant public safety challenge.