Oregon Criminal Justice Commission proposes $317.6M budget with key funding packages

The Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Public Safety convened on June 2, 2025, to discuss the proposed budget for the Criminal Justice Commission (CJC), which totals $317,626,234. This budget reflects significant changes, including a notable 190% increase in certain areas, primarily due to the nature of one-time funding that phases in and out on a biannual basis.

The budget allocation includes $150,651,844 from the general fund, $628,510 from lottery funds, and $15,098,131 from federal funds, supporting 30 positions and 35 full-time equivalents (FTE). The CJC's budget is largely driven by specific funding packages aimed at enhancing various programs.

One key package, Package 100, allocates $604,562 to staff the Juvenile Justice Policy Commission, while Package 101 provides $267,432 to permanently support the treatment court grant program, which has seen a 49% increase in applications since 2015. Additionally, Package 102 secures $639,928 in federal funds for ongoing federal grants.

Significant funding is also directed towards behavioral health initiatives. Package 550 appropriates $40 million in general funds for behavioral health deflection programs, with an additional $40 million in other funds to facilitate grant distribution. This dual funding structure aims to prevent reversion of unused funds back to the general fund at the end of the biennium.

The meeting highlighted the importance of these funding packages in addressing public safety and health issues. Representatives expressed support for the family preservation program at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility, emphasizing its positive impact on pregnant and parenting women in state prisons. The program received permanent funding of $850,000, reflecting a commitment to effective resource allocation.

Despite the budgetary challenges, committee members acknowledged the efficiency of taxpayer money in supporting public safety initiatives. However, concerns were raised regarding the lack of ongoing funding for the illegal marijuana market enforcement grant program, which will now rely solely on marijuana tax revenue without additional grant support.

In conclusion, the discussions during the meeting underscored the Oregon Legislature's ongoing efforts to enhance public safety through strategic funding while navigating the complexities of budget management. The anticipated next steps include further deliberations on House Bill 3069, which will restructure the financial framework for the CJC's budget.