April 8, 2025

Cascadia Chief of Psychiatry gives testimony for civil commitment bill 

Last week, April Sweeney, Cascadia Health’s Chief of Psychiatry testified in favor of House Bill 2467, which proposes to change the existing standard for civil commitment. 

In her testimony, April acknowledged that the root causes of and community-centered solutions for mental illness need continued attention and advocacy so that civil commitment remains a final resort.

“We work every day to ensure people get the care they need before they reach a level of concern that may warrant commitment, incarceration, lengthy hospitalization and isolation from their communities,” she said.

If passed, the bill would direct a judge to deem a person dangerous to themselves or others if the judge believes that harm could happen in the next 30 days. That standard broadens the existing scope for determining danger, which focuses in imminent harm. The bill and its amendments would also specifically point to past threats or attempts at harm as factors a judge can consider.

“Changes to our civil commitment statute, while by no means a solution to a widespread systemic problem, could result in a reduction in the number of people interfacing with the criminal justice system, especially as the primary means by which they eventually access care,” April said during her testimony.

Cascadia Health is committed to meaningful solutions in crisis service delivery. We support investments in the types of care and support that meet individuals’ needs before they reach a level of crisis that calls for civil commitment. These include expanding services such as peer respite, enhancing peer services overall, residential treatment and permanent supportive housing. 

April’s testimony begins at 01:39:44 in the recording from the session. You can watch below, or access the audio version from the Oregon State Legislature.

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For more info, visit Oregon State Legislature.

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