OREGON HOUSE REPUBLICANS

GOVERNOR SIGNS BILL GIVING COMMUNITIES A VOICE

IN PLACEMENT OF PSRB MENTAL HEALTH CLIENTS

SALEM— Rep. Andy Olson (R-Albany) today said the Governor has signed HB 2052 to give Oregon communities a greater voice in the placement of mental health clients of the state Psychiatric Security Review Board (PSRB).  Rep. Olson said the legislation makes the process for siting halfway houses, residential treatment centers and other facilities more transparent and responsive to the public.

“I’m pleased the Governor has signed this important bill for Oregon’s communities,” said Rep. Olson, who has worked with criminal justice and mental health representatives on this issue for the past year. “HB 2052 empowers community stakeholder groups across Oregon to review and respond to proposed facilities and placements. This bill provides a voice to communities, makes the process more transparent, and maintains the integrity of PSRB.”

HB 2052 requires public agencies to inform local public safety coordinating councils (LPSCC) of their intent to site residences for PSRB clients. The bill enables a special subcommittee within each LPSCC to review these proposals. Subcommittees consist of local district attorneys, law enforcement officers, county mental health directors, mental health advocates, and citizens appointed by city councils and county commissioners.

“In advance of these placements, communities will be better informed of the size and population of these centers, the qualifications of facility staff and other important details,” Rep. Olson said. “Less than two percent of PSRB clients ever repeat their crimes. HB 2052 offers an avenue for greater discussion, education and awareness.”

Giving communities a say in the placement of PSRB clients is a component of Building a Better Oregon, the House Republicans’ 2009 agenda.

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