SALEM – Today, the Oregon House of Representatives voted 39-15 to protect workers’ health care coverage while sick.
House Bill 2600 would require all companies with 25 or more employees to continue health care coverage for an individual on protected medical leave, as well as for their covered family members. It will also bring Oregon family leave law in line with federal family leave policy.
“Oregon has always been a national leader and model in family medical leave policy,” said Rep. Barbara Smith Warner (D- Portland). “It’s time we continue that tradition and ensure working families and their health care coverage are protected during an illness.”
Medical leave is arguably the most critical time for workers to maintain health care coverage, and losing it could cause costs and other issues to compound and drown working families. HB 2600 helps them maintain economic stability and security during a critical time.
The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.
