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Issue: 1 February 13, 2009 |
House Calls Newsletter
with Sen. Alan Bates |
| Greetings!
Welcome and thank you for subscribing to House Calls, my monthly electronic newsletter. It has been an honor to serve in the Oregon Legislature since 2001, first in the House of Representatives and now in the Senate. As the Legislature works together with you to shape Oregon's future, I look forward to the important work of this historic 75th Legislative Assembly.
Opening Day
From left to right:
Erin Fair, MPH, JD - Policy Advisor
Sen. Alan Bates
Holly East, MSW - Legislative Aide |
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Goals for the 2009 Legislative Session
During this legislative session I am servingon the following committees:
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A Wellness Model for Health Care Reform
As a practicing physician for over 30 years, I understand the fundamental need for health care reform in Oregon. This session I will be working on legislation that takes important steps to expand access to health care services for our communities. These bills aim to contain spiraling costs, improve efficiency and transparency, and ensure that our health professionals provide Oregonians with the highest quality care possible.
HB 2009 is one bill I would like to highlight. This important bill builds upon my work on SB 329 in 2007 by implementing policy recommendations made by the Oregon Health Fund Board. It continues our progress toward universal health care by reducing costs and guaranteeing that every child under the age of 18 has coverage, while also moving Oregon closer to a wellness model that promotes health.
We must also work integrate mental health into the Oregon Health Plan. As it currently stands, mental health care is paid for with different funds than physical health - making it difficult for those with mental health needs to ensure coverage of all neccesary care. This session I will be working hard to make sure these services become integrated to eliminate this unnecessary burden. |
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Continuing Oregon's Environmental Leadership
As the nationwide leader in environmental protection, Oregon must continue safeguarding its natural treasures. In 2009, I will continue to build on previous sessions' environmental stewardship. This work has not only given Oregon a global reputation for championing environmental conservation but has also resulted in our state emerging as a leader in green technology. We are the top producer of renewable products in the United States.
Building on this legacy means further protecting and opening our rivers for all citizens to enjoy. I strongly believe Oregonians should have access to their waterways. We also have a responsibility to keep those public waterways clean and safe for those who use the rivers and those who live along the rivers. This session I will be working on legislation that will provide clarity regarding public and private rights on Oregon's rivers, as well as a plan for managing recreational use. My goal is to ensure that we all may enjoy pristine areas like the Rogue for generations to come. |
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Balancing Our Budget Priorities
Unlike the federal government, the Oregon Legislature is constitutionally-required to have a balanced budget at the end of each session. Given the extreme challenges presented by the global economic recession, we must make it a priority to fund critical state services which help to support Oregonians across the state. I will be working hard to ensure we maintain basic services in public safety, education, health and human services despite these trying economic times. |
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Working for Our Community
With our military service members being deployed multiple times, for extended periods, we must do everything possible to support them and their families. I am working on a Military Family Leave law, which allows any employee whose spouse is a member of the United States Armed Forces, National Guard, or Reserves to receive a total of 15 days unpaid leave for each deployment. This bill is common sense legislation that helps Oregon recognize the responsibility and burden that our men and women in uniform and their families take on in each deployment.
I am also working on Senate Concurrent Resolution 4, a bill honoring the memory of Hank Collins, a longtime resident of Jackson County whose unexpected passing has left a hole in our community. Over his many decades of public service, he created a legacy of improved social services and public health protections that guide us to this day. |
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Oregon Celebrates 150 Years
A Sesquicentennial Birthday
This year Oregon is celebrating 150 years of statehood!
I invite you to the Oregon State Capitol in Salem at 11 a.m. this Saturday, February 14 to celebrate this historic occasion. Many members of our Legislative Assembly will be in attendance for a birthday celebration featuring the following events:
- A commemorative session in both Legislative chambers at 10:00 am to mark this historic event
- A commemorative session in both Legislative chambers at 10:00 am to mark this historic event
- A cake-cutting ceremony with enough cake to feed 3,000 people will be held at noon featuring Gov. Ted Kulongoski and legislative leaders
- Complimentary hot dogs, chips and drinks
Activities for children
- Square dancing lessons and demonstrations
- Sesquicentennial exhibits
- And more!
To see all celebration events please visit www.Oregon150.org |
Listening to Our Community
It is only with your input that I can continue to advocate for the needs of our communities. Please do not hesitate to contact my office with any questions, comments, or requests for assistance. As always, my staff and I are eager to help in
any way we can.
In Salem:
In Medford:
2859 State Street, Suite 101
Medford, OR 97504
Phone: (541) 282-6502
Fax: (541) 282-6520
E-mail: info@alanbates.net | |
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In health,
Dr. Alan Bates | |
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