Oregon legislature advances SB 692 to enhance perinatal services access

In a recent meeting of the Joint Committee on Ways and Means, Oregon lawmakers discussed several significant bills aimed at improving health services and support for vulnerable populations. The session, held on June 17, 2025, highlighted key legislative measures that could reshape perinatal care, long-term care oversight, and support for the Oregon National Guard.

One of the most notable discussions centered around Senate Bill 692, which seeks to enhance access to culturally competent perinatal services. The bill directs the Oregon Health Authority to establish a community-based perinatal services access program, backed by a $1 million fund for grants to eligible entities. This initiative aims to improve the qualifications and regulation of doulas and lactation counselors, ensuring that a minimum of 24 hours of doula or lactation services is covered by state medical assistance programs. The Human Services Subcommittee has recommended amendments to the bill, which is expected to significantly impact maternal health services across the state.

Another critical topic was Senate Bill 739, which focuses on improving safety and regulatory oversight of residential care facilities. This bill proposes updated timelines for the Department of Human Services to respond to complaints and mandates inspections of facilities within a specified timeframe. The amendments aim to streamline processes while ensuring that the safety of residents is prioritized. The committee's approval of this bill reflects a growing concern for the quality of care in long-term residential settings.

Additionally, Senate Bill 807 was introduced to address recruitment and retention challenges within the Oregon National Guard. The proposed legislation would establish a retention bonus program, offering a one-time bonus of $5,000 to service members who reenlist or extend their service. With a funding allocation of $2.5 million, this initiative aims to stabilize the force amid increasing deployment demands. Lawmakers expressed the urgency of this measure, emphasizing the need to support military personnel in light of their ongoing commitments.

The committee also reviewed Senate Bill 844, which updates provisions related to public health, including opioid reporting and clinical laboratory requirements. This bill aims to enhance the Oregon Health Authority's ability to manage public health challenges effectively. However, some lawmakers voiced concerns about the direction of certain policy changes within the bill.

Finally, Senate Bill 1168 addresses compensation practices for home health care staff, prohibiting per-visit payment structures. This measure seeks to ensure fair compensation for home health and hospice care providers, reflecting a commitment to improving working conditions in the healthcare sector.

As the committee moves forward, these discussions underscore the Oregon Legislature's commitment to addressing critical health and safety issues within the community. The anticipated amendments and approvals signal a proactive approach to enhancing services for some of the state's most vulnerable populations. The next steps will involve further deliberations and potential adjustments to these bills as they progress through the legislative process.