More children in Oregon could be protected under medical care coverage from the Oregon Health Authority with the passage in the House of House Bill 3517.
In accordance with federal law, HB 3517 fixes Oregon’s statues that exclude some of Oregon’s children from medical assistance. This is a public health issue for all of Oregon’s children and gives the Oregon Health Authority permission to provide medical assistance to these children, within available funds.
“When we hear about measles epidemics and other outbreaks, this gives the OHA the ability to plan for a response,” says Rep. Mitch Greenlick (D-Portland). “We need to plan for the health of all of Oregon’s children.”
The current exclusions some children face undermine the health of all Oregonians. Improving public health means protecting the health of all Oregonians and their communities from preventable and serious public health threats.
"HB 3517 is simply an opportunity to give the Oregon Health Authority the ability to give needed health care to a vulnerable group of Oregon children,” says Rep. Vic Gilliam (RSilverton). “This bill shows decency and compassion and I'm proud to be a sponsor."
HB 3517 passed 36-22 and now heads to the Senate.
