OR HB3129

Establishes the Higher Education Behavioral Health Workforce Expansion Fund in the State Treasury, administered by the Higher Education Coordinating Commission, with $25,700,000 appropriated from the General Fund for the 2025-2027 biennium

Distributes funds to community colleges, public and private universities, and Oregon Health and Science University to expand training, employment, and retention of behavioral health professionals who can provide culturally responsive services to underserved populations

Allows institutions to use funds for hiring behavioral health faculty, providing student scholarships with a two-year service obligation, expanding or developing academic programs, covering accreditation costs, and supporting intern/associate supervision

Requires annual reporting by June 30 from recipient institutions on program outcomes including student participation, completion rates, and career placements, with demographic data collected anonymously

Takes effect immediately upon the Governor's signature as an emergency measure