|
The 2011 Legislative session was a historic session before it even began. This session was the first annual session of the Oregon Legislature, following voter approval last November. It was also the first time in Oregon's history that the House had been evenly divided with 30 Democrats and 30 Republicans, resulting in quite a balancing act for most bills being considered. Governor Kitzhaber began a historic third term as Oregon's Governor, and Senator Peter Courtney became the longest serving Senate President in Oregon history. The session also was plagued with the fiscal realities of the ongoing recession, and an estimated budget shortfall of $3.5 billion over the next biennium.
This session will be remembered not only for its historic firsts, but for beginning the transition to a healthcare system that incentivizes primary and preventive care, seeks to improve population health, and to limit overall costs. The largest reforms to our healthcare system this session were the creation of a Health Insurance Exchange and the establishment of Coordinated Care Organizations (CCOs). We still have a significant number of challenges ahead, but progress is being made. The Oregon Public Health Association will continue working hard to advocate for public policies that improve the health of every Oregonian.
Obesity – healthy food and physical activity
Tobacco
This Committee opposes the following bills, as they weaken the Oregon Indoor Clean Air Act:
HB 2350 Expands definition of "smoke shop", allows sampling of tobacco even if building is not "stand-alone" - DIED IN COMMITTEE
HB 2601 Modifies definition of "smoke shop", allows sampling of tobacco even if building is not "stand-alone" - DIED IN COMMITTEE
HB 3329 Revises definition of “smoke shop” for purposes of Oregon Indoor Clean Air Act. - DIED IN COMMITTEE
SB 783 Provides that business primarily engaged in sale of tobacco products and smoking instruments on December 31, 2008, qualifies as smoke shop for purposes of Oregon Indoor Clean Air Act - DIED IN COMMITTEE
Creating healthy homes, schools, and jobs
Environment
Health care
Mental health
Other important bills to watch:
HB 3510 Single payer healthcare system “Affordable Health Care for All Oregon Act” - DIED IN COMMITTEE
SB 888 Affordable Health Care for All Oregon Plan - DIED IN COMMITTEE
Past OPHA Policy Activities
To read about OPHA's policy priorities from the 2009 legislative session, visit the 2009 priorities webpage.
Report of OPHA Policy Committee 2006-2007 Activities
Go to: Policy Committee Report
OPHA Policy History:
Active Positions
Inactive Positions
If you are interested in learning more or joining, please contact the Chair of the Policy Committee
|
