SENATE MAJORITY OFFICE Oregon State Legislature State Capitol Salem, OR

News Release

June 5, 2009

CONTACT:    Molly Woon (503) 986-1074

molly.woon@state.or.us

Health literacy programs for Head Start parents will help keep kids healthy

House Bill 3041 establishes up to six pilot programs across the state

SALEM – Legislation promoting health literacy for lower-income Oregon families found unanimous support in the Senate this morning. House Bill 3041 creates a pilot program for up to six Head Start locations to implement a health literacy program to share information with parents about common ailments and preventative care for their children. 

“Preventative care is a key piece of controlling health care costs and avoiding serious illness for children and adults alike,” said Senator Bill Morrisette (D-Springfield), who carried the bill on the floor. “Head Start locations are an ideal place to reach out to parents and share this information.”

Both California and Washington have limited programs to provide training to Head Start staff and information to parents about common ailments, such as colds and chicken pox. The goals are healthier children and reduced demands for costly emergency room treatments by making parents more aware of when and where to seek medical treatment for their children.

“This program will complement the work we’re doing this session to expand access to health care and control costs,” said Senate Majority Leader Richard Devlin (D-Tualatin). “Health care reform is a top priority of our caucus and we’re making huge strides though both innovative programs like the one established in HB 3041 and via broad based initiatives that will dramatically expands access to all Oregon children.”

HB 3041 was introduced in the House by Representative Suzanne VanOrman (D-Hood River). The bill will now go to the Governor’s desk for his signature.

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For more information on the Senate Majority Caucus, please visit oregonsenatedemocrats.com