Oregon Nurses Association Warns of Risks to Medicaid and Health Services

Portland, Oregon- The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) is raising concerns following the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill (H.R. 1), a federal bill that the organization says would significantly reduce funding for public health programs, including Oregon’s Medicaid system.

In a statement released Friday, the ONA warned the legislation could lead to major disruptions in health care access for low-income Oregonians. The group estimates as many as 280,000 residents could be at risk of losing Oregon Health Plan (OHP) coverage. OHP is the state’s Medicaid program and provides care for a wide range of vulnerable populations, including children, seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income working families.

The ONA also criticized the bill’s inclusion of new eligibility requirements and administrative measures that the group argues could create barriers to coverage. H.R. 1 significantly tightens eligibility and self-sufficiency standards—especially for Medicaid and SNAP—through new work mandates, documentation rules, and reduced retroactive coverage. Supporters frame these changes as efficiency measures; critics argue they create barriers that could push low-income Americans off vital safety-net programs.

Rep. Cliff Bentz, R-Ore., voted in favor of the bill, drawing criticism from the association. In its statement, the ONA said Bentz “failed his constituents,” arguing that the legislation would negatively impact rural hospitals and lead to staffing cuts, department closures, and delays in care across the state.

The organization expressed particular concern about the potential for increased strain on frontline health care workers, citing fears of higher patient volumes and workforce burnout.

While H.R. 1’s supporters argue the bill is aimed at reducing federal spending and encouraging workforce participation, opponents like the ONA contend it would do so at the expense of essential safety net services.

The ONA said it plans to work with labor partners, advocacy organizations, and state officials to push back against the legislation and protect access to care for Oregon residents.