Oregon Lawmaker Highlights Spending Disparity Between Health Care for Noncitizens and State Police Funding
Oregon House Republican Leader Lucetta Elmer yesterday raised concerns about the state’s budget allocation, pointing to a significant difference between funding for health care for noncitizens and the Oregon State Police.
Approximately $1.3 billion is budgeted for the Healthier Oregon program for the current biennium, while the Oregon State Police received $717 million, according to the Department of State Police Legislative Adopted Budget. The Healthier Oregon program, established in July 2023, provides free health coverage to roughly 105,000 children and adults who meet income and eligibility criteria, regardless of immigration status – covering services from preventative care to psychiatric treatment. This funding imbalance comes as Oregon faces ongoing debates about public safety and resource allocation.
When asked about prioritizing health care coverage over increased funding for law enforcement, Elmer acknowledged the need for accessible healthcare, stating, “Yeah, and I think you know that is a fair question and that is a good point and that’s definitely part of the conversation. But what else is happening here is that this coverage to healthy Oregon is way more than just emergency room visits…We’re talking about full-on dental care, full-on health care, including preventative.” The Oregon Health Authority defended the program, asserting its commitment to immigrant communities and all 1.4 million Oregonians who rely on Medicaid, stating they “oppose all efforts to thwart” healthcare access. You can learn more about Healthier Oregon on the state’s official website.
The Oregon State Police stated they are committed to fulfilling their mission “safeguarding life, property, and natural resources” with the funds allocated through the legislative process. This debate mirrors national discussions about the financial responsibilities states have to both residents and non-citizen populations, as outlined by the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) of 1986.
Officials stated the situation will continue to be monitored as the legislative session progresses.
