FAMM advocated for comprehensive compassionate release reform in Oregon during the 2023 legislative session. Unfortunately, the 2023 legislative session was plagued by disruptions and walkouts and our reform did not pass.
Questions? Contact Daniel Landsman, FAMM’s Deputy Director of Policy, at dlandsman@famm.org for more information.
2023 Legislative Priorities
SB 520 would create a new mechanism for compassionate release. Under this new mechanism applicants would be reviewed by an independent advisory committee compiled of licensed medical professionals. If an applicant receives a positive recommendation, they will go before either the Board of Parole or the Courts where there will be a rebuttable presumption of release that the Board or court may overcome with a finding that the individual poses a danger to the safety of another person or the public. Eligible criterion include: a terminal illness with a prognosis of 12 months or less to live; inability to complete the activities of daily living or inability to independently move from place to place even with the use of a mobility device; an underlying condition that places the individual at an increased risk of serious medical complications or death if exposed to a disease during a declared state of emergency or public health emergency (such as the COVID-19 pandemic); or, has a progressively debilitating condition.
SB 520 did not pass the legislature before the end of the session.
Read FAMM’s poll showing that 70% of Americans support compassionate release