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Committee hears housekeeping fix to allow DHS to create optional online child-abuse reporting tool
Summary
Senate Bill 138 would allow, but not require, the Department of Human Services to create a website for reporting child abuse and neglect; the committee discussed that last session's language created confusion and members asked staff to request an emergency clause amendment.
Senate Bill 138 would allow the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) to develop an online reporting option for instances of child abuse and neglect; the bill would be effective Jan. 1, 2026 unless an emergency clause is added. Committee staff read a summary and members described the measure as a technical, housekeeping fix to clarify that an online reporting option is permissive rather than mandatory.
Chair Gelser Bluein and committee members said the measure grew from confusion after a department bill last session and from testimony in a September 2024 hearing. A senator suggested the committee request an amendment to add an emergency clause so the change could take effect more quickly if the committee moves forward.
Committee members did not take a final action on the bill in this hearing; a staff member read the summary and the committee discussed next steps for a drafting amendment.
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