HB 3168
Directs the Department of Human Services to adopt rules to require an agency that hires, trains and supervises direct support professionals using state funds received from the department to implement enhanced staffing ratios under specified circumstances.
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Support
100%
Oppose
0%
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill directs the Oregon Department of Human Services to create rules requiring agencies that provide direct support professional services to individuals receiving state funds to implement enhanced staffing ratios. Specifically, agencies receiving ‘exceptional service rates’ or those needing specific staffing patterns for high-needs residents must provide a staff safety plan to the department. The rules will take effect on January 1, 2026.
Key provisions
- Requires agencies to implement enhanced staffing ratios for certain individuals.
- Defines ‘exceptional service rate’ and ‘high-needs resident’ for the purpose of these rules.
- Mandates residential training homes and facilities to provide a staff safety plan to the Department of Human Services.
- Specifies potential staffing ratios (one-to-one, two-to-one, or three-to-one) that may trigger enhanced staffing requirements.
- Establishes a timeline for rule adoption and implementation (January 1, 2026).
- Requires agencies to address emergency protocols and staff-to-supervisor ratios in the staff safety plan.
Who is affected
- Residential training homes and facilities
- Direct support professionals
- Individuals receiving developmental disabilities services
- Oregon Department of Human Services
- Agencies providing attendant care services
Notable changes
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsors
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
Supporters of House Bill 3168 emphasize the need for improved support systems, social/emotional support, and stricter staffing regulations to ensure resident safety. Personal stories from caregivers, Direct Support Professionals, and individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities highlight the importance of providing person-centered community-based support, addressing staff shortages, and prioritizing quality care. Advocates argue that the legislation represents a modest but meaningful step towards protecting caregivers and individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, while also promoting enhanced direct support to ensure safety for both children and staff. By holding providers accountable to standards prioritizing safety and quality care, supporters believe the bill can improve outcomes and promote greater well-being for those served.
Source: Testimony Summaries
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