Jackson County Democrats

House Votes to Help Oregonians Who Lose Their Jobs

Keep Their Health Coverage

HB 2433 would ensure unemployed Oregonians receive the full benefit of the
federal stimulus

SALEM – The House today passed HB 2433, which would help Oregonians who lose their jobs keep
their health coverage by allowing them to take full advantage of provisions in
the federal stimulus. 

“These are tough times for Oregon families,” said Representative Carolyn Tomei (D-Milwaukie), who
carried the bill on the floor.  “This bill will help Oregon workers by helping them cover the cost of their health coverage should they lose their jobs.”

When workers lose their jobs they have the right to stay on their employer’s health plan, but are
typically responsible for the full cost of their premiums.  The federal stimulus package will provide up to 65 percent of that cost to most workers, but changes in Oregon law are needed to extend that benefit Oregon
workers who worked for small employers.

“Oregon families have so much to worry about when a family member loses a job,” said Representative
Paul Holvey (D-Eugene).  “Families need the peace of mind that
continued health coverage brings – especially during tough times.”

Premiums can be expensive and affording them is difficult for workers who have lost their
jobs.  HB 2433 would, for example, allow a family that would
typically have to pay $1,200 a month to continue an employer plan would pay $420
monthly with this subsidy.  A single worker who might typically pay
$400 would instead pay $140.

“This bill will provide real relief to Oregonians who lose their jobs and allow them to use some
of their resources for other vital needs so they can get back on their feet more
quickly,” said Representative Greg Matthews (D-Gresham).

HB 2433 now moves to the Senate.

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