This Session the Governor Ted Kulongoski was proud to sign Senate Bill 1, which established mental health parity in Oregon. The bill eliminates the discrimination against mental health problems by insurance companies. Mental health parity has been a priority of the Governor for some time. This legislation was one of the key elements named in the Governor’s Mental Health Task Force. The Task force created a strategic plan for Mental Health in the state. The Governor strongly believes if we are to develop a comprehensive mental health system for the state, preventative care must be accessible to all Oregonians.

According to the Governor, "Senate Bill 1 is one of the most important pieces of legislation to pass out of this session and will deliver one of the greatest returns to the citizens of Oregon by making mental health services more affordable, accessible and available earlier – which will improve the health of our citizens and prevent more costly responses from the state in the future.”

Mental health parity is part of the Governors overarching plan to address the problems the state faces with Mental help. Part of that plan includes the redesign for the Oregon State Hospital. This step proves that with his leadership both House of the Legislature can work together to address the serious problems Oregonians face daily.
For more information check out these news articles from around Oregon.
The Oregonian
Oregon Public Broadcasting
Eastern Oregonian