Legislature Establishes Universal Health Plan Governance Board

June 23, 2023

Press contact:
Hannah Kurowski
[email protected]

Senate Bill 1089 creates a framework for implementing Measure 111

SALEM, Ore. – Last year Oregonians approved Measure 111, making Oregon the first state to adopt a constitutional right to affordable health care. Senate Bill 1089 responds to voters by establishing the Universal Health Plan Governance Board to develop proposals to implement a health plan that will ensure that all Oregonians have access to care.

Many families have to spend an exorbitant amount of their monthly paycheck just to cover the monthly premium for a health care plan, copays, prescription costs, deductibles and other out-of-pocket expenses that factor into that one urgent care visit.

“We have a chance to give all Oregonians the ability to access high-quality medical care without going into debt or being pushed into extreme poverty,” said Representative Travis Nelson (D-Portland), chief sponsor of the bill and a registered nurse. “A trip to the doctor shouldn’t break the bank and no one should ever die because they can’t afford to pay.”

The Universal Health Plan Governance Board will be tasked with designing an administrative structure for a universal health plan, assessing institutional readiness, and collaborating with stakeholders such as hospitals, healthcare providers, insurers, and coordinated care organizations. The board is also required to develop a plan for establishing an independent public corporation and a separate trust fund. The board will present its proposals to the Legislature for consideration by September 2026.

Ensuring that all Oregonians have access to health care will foster healthier communities and close disparities in health care that Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), low-income, and rural communities face.

“Life expectancy in our country varies far too widely by race, gender and zip code. We all deserve to receive the care we need to lead healthy lives,” finished Nelson.

Senate Bill 1089 is a BIPOC Caucus priority. The bill passed 34-21 and now heads to the Governor’s desk.