The 2016 legislative session wrapped up on Thursday, March 3rd with many of APANO’s top policy issues moving forward. After a packed 32 days of deliberating, holding public forums, and meeting stakeholders and community members, we commend our lawmakers for passing important legislation that addresses the needs of our communities. With over 383,000 Oregonians still currently uninsured, APANO’s community-driven Our Families, Our Health campaign successfully advanced access to health care for the most vulnerable in our state.
Basic Health Plan. HB 4017B is one step closer towards expanding coverage, increasing benefits, and reduce healthcare costs for over 89,000 Oregonians. This bipartisan bill will allow OHA and DCBS to continue working with stakeholders and develop a Basic Health blueprint. Read the latest Press Release: Legislature Advances Healthcare for Working Families and Immigrants
COFA Premium Assistance Program. HB 4071A passed unanimously. Allowing residents from the Marshall Islands, Palau, and Micronesia to receive subsidized health care in Oregon after a 20 year ban. These territories under the Compact of Free Association (COFA) treaty have a unique relationship with the US as a result of military involvement during WW2. Press Release: HB 4071
Inclusionary Zoning. SB 1533B allows cities and counties to enact a limited form of Inclusionary Zoning (IZ) at the local level, for the first time since a statewide ban was imposed in 1999. While the bill in its final form does not fully lift the ban on IZ—it includes restrictions that will make it difficult for communities outside Portland to see any benefit—it is a significant step in the right direction.
Get Involved!
March 31st- Making Place: Exploring the Role of Planning and Policy
If you were following the repeal of the ban on inclusionary zoning and are excited to talk further about how policies shape places and neighborhoods, join APANO for an upcoming workshop.
April 2nd- Asian Pacific Islander Health Justice Forum at OHSU. Register here
Join over 100 health activists, community members, and API leaders for a day of empowerment, and lifting up health equity for our communities. Hosted by CANN and APANO. Space is limited!
For more information on APANO’s upcoming elections work in 2016 or the 2017 legislative session, contact Kathy Wai, Policy Coordinator at kathy@apano.org.