Oregon bill to fix gap in developmental disability care heads to Kotek's desk

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – After passing in the Oregon House, a bill that aims to improve healthcare access for Oregonians with developmental disabilities is now headed to the governor's desk.
will mandate that public bodies never deny mental health assessments or treatment to patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).
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'For too long, people with I/DD have faced gaps in care and fragmented services,' Rep. Rob Nosse (D-Inner SE Portland) said. 'This bill ensures we finally hold our system accountable for delivering the care these Oregonians deserve.'
This bill would apply to the Oregon Health Authority, the Department of Human Services, the Department of Education, the Oregon Medical Board, and other health licensing agencies. It would not apply to the Oregon Youth Authority, the Department of Corrections, or the Department of Education.
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say people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have long faced challenges while seeking much-needed mental health care.
'Access to mental health care is a basic human right. No one should be excluded from treatment simply because of a disability, this bill is about equity, dignity, and doing what's right,' Rep. Travis Nelson (D-N & NE Portland) said.
SB 729 is headed to Gov. Tina Kotek's desk, where it awaits her signature.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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