Health Care For All Joint Resolution Introduced

Resolution would be sent to voters

BlogNews by Corinne BoyerPosted on
Sen. James ManningPhoto by Todd Cooper

House Joint Resolution 203 — which would ensure that all Oregonians have access to health care — has been introduced during Oregon’s short legislative session. The resolution would send the proposed health care amendment to Oregon voters during the “next regular general election,” according to the resolution’s summary. So far, approximately 40 state representatives and senators are sponsoring the resolution including Sen. James Manning, Sen. Floyd Prozanski, Rep. Julie Fahey and Rep. Nancy Nathanson — who represent various Eugene districts.

The joint resolution states that “Oregonians should not be divided between those who can afford to be healthy and those who cannot.”

If the resolution goes to voters and passes, it would amend Oregon’s Constitution. The resolution’s summary also states, “It is the obligation of the state to ensure that every resident of Oregon has access to effective, medically appropriate and affordable health care as a fundamental right.”

The full text of the resolution can be found here:

  • JOINT RESOLUTION Whereas there are many components that contribute to good health, including the ability to respond to sickness, disease and injury; and Whereas achieving the goal of living a healthy life is impossible without the ability to access health care; and Whereas health care should be available to everyone; and Whereas the lack of available health care is a barrier to opportunity, success and quality of life; and Whereas Oregonians should not be divided between those who can afford to be healthy and those who cannot; and Whereas Oregonians should not be divided between those who have hopes and dreams and those whose sickness, disease or injury robs them of their hopes and dreams; now, therefore,
  • Be It Resolved by the Legislative Assembly of the State of Oregon:
  • PARAGRAPH 1. The Constitution of the State of Oregon is amended by creating a new section 47 to be added to and made a part of Article I, such section to read: SECTION 47. It is the obligation of the state to ensure that every resident of Oregon has access to effective, medically appropriate and affordable health care as a fundamental right. PARAGRAPH 2. The amendment proposed by this resolution shall be submitted to the people for their approval or rejection at the next regular general election held throughout this state.