The Governor’s 2022 State of the State address highlighted the value of data-driven policy-making centered on equity and racial justice to inform how the Governor’s investments would help build a stronger, more equitable future for all residents. For example, the Governor’s Racial Justice Council provided community feedback through the Council’s membership and prioritization of evidence-based processes for the development of the Governor’s Recommended Budget, which was delivered to the Legislature as part of the 2023 legislative session. Budget and Legislative Concepts Instructions for the 2023-25 budget incorporated a racial equity toolkit (Appendix B).

Budget Instructions for agencies focus on requirements for agencies to focus on long-term outcomes, program performance, and key performance measures for agencies.

A 2003 Oregon law provides a definition of evidence-based program as a program that “incorporates significant and relevant practices based on scientifically based research; and is cost effective” and states that the Oregon Department of Corrections, the Oregon Youth Authority, the Oregon Youth Development Division, and “the part of the Oregon Health Authority that deals with mental health and addiction issues” shall (1) spend at least 75% of state moneys that the agency receives for programs on evidence-based programs; (2) perform cost-benefit analyses; and (3) compile a biennial program inventory with results from funded programs.