Chair Prozanski, Vice-Chair Thatcher, and Members of the Committee:
My name is Janet Bauer, Director of Policy Research for the Oregon Center for Public Policy. I respectfully submit this testimony in support of SB 1510 on behalf of the Center.
The Oregon Center for Public Policy is a think tank dedicated to improving the economic outcomes for all Oregonians, particularly low-income families and Oregonians of color, through research and analysis.
Our state is better off when people who have been held accountable for harm are able to succeed. Our communities benefit when people are able to access physical and mental health treatment and other services they need to heal. Oregon must address racial disparities prevalent in our criminal justice system that pose barriers for Black, Indigenous, Latinx, and other people of color. Unfortunately, our current system prevents public safety grant funds from reaching these communities and meeting their needs.
SB 1510 would address systemic inequities and help ensure Oregonians have the support and services they need to flourish by investing in culturally-specific services through the Justice Reinvestment Equity Program. This proven approach strengthens individuals and families and ultimately reduces involvement in the criminal justice system.
We urge you to support SB 1510.
