Public Employees Benefit Board

James Raussen, the director in charge of the teachers health plan washed out after just eight months amid allegations of ethical misconduct and offensive remarks to and about staff members. Nancy MacMorris-Adix, the chair of the Oregon Educators Benefit Board, would like to return to the old system where her organization shared an administrative director with the health plan for state employees.

The two boards have called a joint meeting next Tuesday to select a permanent administrator.

Budget Chairmen Rep. Peter Buckley and Sen. Richard Devlin said they are ready to count on savings from the Public Employees Benefit Board, but not the Oregon Educators Benefit Board, which has not yet revamped its contract. Those savings are far from guaranteed.

April 19, 2013 — A landmark bill regarding autism passed the Senate Health Committee unanimously Thursday, paving the way for insurance coverage of a specialized treatment that supporters say will help severely handicapped autistic children live more functional lives.

Regence BlueCross BlueShield opposes the provision, arguing to keep current law where private insurers have the option to deny claims for alcohol or drug treatment if it’s a result of a DUII or other conviction