OR HB2481

Oregon Public Guardian and Conservator must develop a guardianship services program for criminal defendants whose cases are suspended or dismissed due to lacking fitness to proceed, with eligibility determined up to one year after case dismissal

Courts may appoint a temporary fiduciary for defendants when protective proceedings under ORS chapter 125 are determined appropriate, allowing guardianship powers until a permanent guardian is appointed

Community mental health program directors must immediately notify persons alleged to have mental illness of their right to court-appointed counsel and ascertain their preferences before notifying the court

Licensed independent practitioners detaining persons for emergency mental health treatment must inform them orally and in writing of their right to court-appointed counsel under ORS 426.100

Oregon Public Defense Commission must study methods for increasing recruitment and training of civil commitment attorneys, with a report due by September 15, 2026 (provision sunsets January 2, 2027)