Legislators back Oregon Military Department budget and highlight Youth Challenge program

The Joint Ways and Means Committee reported Senate Bill 5,533 — the Oregon Military Department budget — out with the dash-2 amendment and recommended do pass as amended. The subcommittee recommended a total-funds budget of $246.6 million, including $46.8 million in general fund, supporting the Oregon Army and Air National Guard and programs including the Oregon Youth Challenge and STARBASE.

Members repeatedly praised the Oregon Youth Challenge program and urged ongoing support. “This program has consistently been rated number 1 in the country for years and years in a row,” Senator Brock Smith said, adding that the program “is a beacon of hope to a number of families across the state.” Senator Bridal and others recounted veteran and family testimonials during the subcommittee hearing and applauded recruitment and readiness investments.

Committee debate also noted differences between the governor’s budget and the subcommittee recommendation; Legislative Fiscal Office staff said the delta reflected recruiting bonuses and capital-construction items that remain under further consideration by the capital construction subcommittee. Senator McLean declared a conflict of interest and noted service in the Air National Guard.

The subcommittee’s recommendation included funding for IT positions, payroll costs beyond federal pay caps, environmental program staff, air-based security and firefighters, and the abolishment of several long-term vacant positions. The motion to report the budget out as amended passed on the committee floor. Members asked for continued attention to recruitment and facilities maintenance as the budget moves forward.