Oregon Public Broadcasting

ALEX MECL ON UNSPLASH

A Lot Rides On How Oregonians, Businesses Handle Life After Masking

Experts says that if unvaccinated people now stop wearing masks or wearing them as much as they did before that the virus will spread.

May 20, 2021

Laura Hanson sits on the floor of the Oregon Senate in June 2019./Logan Gilles

Former Oregon Senate Aide Sues Legislature, Claims Discrimination

In a lawsuit filed Monday, Laura Hanson says she was discouraged from taking protected medical leave and punished when she did. Hanson’s case led to changes in how the Legislature handles some workplace complaints.

May 17, 2021

SHUTTERSTOCK

Oregon’s New Mask Rule Generates More Questions Than Answers

The state lifted mask requirements for fully vaccinated Oregonians but now they have to navigate that, and some might feel uncomfortable removing their face covering.

May 17, 2021

OHSU nurse practitioner Shelby Freed tests a patient for COVID. | BRADLEY W. PARKS/OPB

Oregon Could Shield Health Care Providers From COVID-Related Lawsuits

Senate Bill 780 would protect hospitals and others from being sued for “acts or omissions” made because of emergency rules set by the government.

May 10, 2021

Bradley W. Parks/OPB

Oregon Signals Delay To Long-Sought Paid Family, Medical Leave Program

A bill introduced in the Oregon House would delay many facets of the Oregon Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance program by a year.

May 5, 2021

Lynne Terry/The Lund Report

Portland State Announces Vaccine Requirement For Fall

The university will require all in-person students, faculty and staff to be vaccinated starting this fall unless they have an approved exemption.

May 5, 2021

Rep. Tina Kotek is the Oregon House speaker./Ben Botkin/The Lund Report

COVID Case Cancels Oregon House Floor Session Again

The latest positive case of COVID-19 means the House will delay voting on bills until April 26, according to House Speaker Tina Kotek, D-Portland.

Apr 21, 2021

Multnomah County worked to vaccinate people of color and people experiencing homelessness. | MOTOYA NAKAMURA/MULTNOMAH COUNTY

Officials, Providers Team Up To Vaccinate Unhoused

In Multnomah County, homeless service providers are helping health officials identify and address barriers to vaccine access.

Apr 5, 2021

SHUTTERSTOCK

Wastewater Testing Reveals Coronavirus Variant In 2 Oregon Cities

Oregon State University researchers have found the British variant, B.1.1.7, which is about 50% more contagious and likely more deadly, in Grants Pass an McMinnville.

Apr 1, 2021