Senate passes GOP-backed mental health bill
By Terry Murry on Thursday, April 10th, 2025 in Columbia Basin News Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
SALEM – Senate Bill 980, which would expand Oregon State University’s Extension Service behavioral health system, passed unanimously in the Senate Wednesday. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Daniel Bonham (R-The Dalles), provides funding that would allow the Extension Service to expand its Family and Community Health Program into Umatilla, Union, Malheur, Tillamook, and Columbia counties.
Bonham said that will allow the formation of local behavioral health committees and facilitate Community Conversations about Mental Health. His intent is for that proven framework to help identify local needs related to mental health and substance use and to craft actionable solutions.
“Too many Oregonians are struggling with mental health Challenges or substance use and they feel like no one is listening,” Bonham stated. “This bill is about changing that. It creates space for real conversations guided by local voices and rooted in the community so people can be heard and supported.”
The bill now moves to the Oregon House of Representatives.
