While The Supreme Court hears arguments to roll back access to reproductive health care,Oregon renews commitment by issuing grants approved by the legislature
SALEM, Ore. — Today, the Supreme Court of The United States heard arguments in a case that would drastically impair access to FDA-approved drugs that doctors use to assist patients seeking reproductive health care. While nationwide access to abortion could be curtailed again by hand-picked extremist judges, Oregon Democrats highlighted grants issued last week as a result of their work to ensure that access to care in Oregon is protected and strengthened across the state.
“When there’s no silver lining in the headlines coming out of D.C. today, we have a lot to be proud of here in Oregon as the work we did is going out into communities to increase access to abortion care across our state,” said Rep. Andrea Valderrama (D-Outer East Portland), who led the efforts to approve this funding. “These grants show a commitment to ensuring longer-term, systemic investments to protect and increase access to abortion care for all Oregonians.”
23 organizations were awarded a total of $8.5 million to address long term reproductive healthcare access and affordability barriers faced by marginalized Oregon communities.
“Money and distance should never stand between an Oregonian and the basic health care they deserve – no exceptions. I’m proud that our state is doing what’s right for our people and their health,” said Senate Majority Leader Kate Lieber (D-Beaverton & SW Portland).
Democrats worked to approve funding for the Reproductive Health Equity Fund for projects, programs, and organizations focused on expanding reproductive health equity through: 1) provider workforce and other care investments; 2) direct support for people seeking abortion and other reproductive services; 3) community-based outreach and education; and 4) research.
“As Democrats, we will always work to protect access to abortion care in Oregon no matter what The Supreme Court decides,” said House Majority Leader Ben Bowman (D-Tigard, Metzger, & S. Beaverton).
The Reproductive Health Equity Fund began in March 2022 with a $15 million allocation from the Oregon Legislature to address gaps in Oregon’s reproductive healthcare infrastructure and expand access for the state’s most vulnerable populations.
Seeding Justice announced grantees last week after a competitive grant application process.
Learn more by visiting seedingjustice.org.