After GOP walkout, Oregon passes amended bills on abortion, trans care and guns

By alexandreBusiness

After GOP walkout, Oregon passes amended bills on abortion, trans care and guns

After a dramatic walkout by Republican lawmakers, Oregon has passed several controversial bills concerning abortion, trans care, and guns. The legislative session was marked by tension as the Republicans fled the state to avoid voting on the proposed bills. However, with their return, the House was able to vote and pass the amended bills.

In this article, we will explore the details of each bill and what it means for Oregonians.

Abortion Bill

The abortion bill, referred to as Senate Bill 579, has received both praise and criticism. The bill allows healthcare professionals like physicians’ assistants and nurse practitioners to perform abortions—a move that proponents argue will increase access to safe abortions in the state. Opponents of the bill, however, say that it undermines the importance of doctors’ training and could lead to unsafe abortions.

Before the amendment, the bill faced intense opposition from Republican lawmakers and conservative groups, who argued that it would allow late-term abortions. However, the final version of the bill clarifies that the procedure can only take place before the fetus is considered viable.

With the passing of Senate Bill 579, Oregon now has some of the least restrictive abortion laws in the country.

Trans Care Bill

The trans care bill, known as Senate Bill 704, ensures that transgender and non-binary individuals have access to necessary healthcare. It prohibits insurance companies in the state from denying coverage or discriminating against these individuals because of their gender identity. The bill also covers hormone therapy, puberty blockers, gender reassignment surgeries, and other related medical procedures.

The bill’s supporters argue that it is a crucial step towards ensuring that trans individuals receive adequate health care. However, critics claim that the bill is too vague and could lead to unintended consequences, such as children being placed on irreversible hormone treatment.

Despite the controversy surrounding Senate Bill 704, it ultimately passed with little opposition from Republican lawmakers. Oregon now joins a small group of states that have passed similar legislation to protect trans healthcare rights.

Guns Bill

The gun bill, referred to as House Bill 2505, expands the state’s current background check laws. It does so by prohibiting individuals convicted of stalking or domestic violence from owning guns. The bill also authorizes gun dealers to delay sales if background checks are incomplete and extends the waiting period for gun purchases from three days to ten days.

The bill has been met with mixed reactions from both sides of the aisle. Proponents argue that it will help prevent gun violence and protect victims of domestic abuse. Opponents, however, claim that the bill infringes on Second Amendment rights and could lead to unnecessary delays in gun purchases.

Despite the controversy surrounding House Bill 2505, it was passed with bipartisan support and signed by Governor Kate Brown.

The passing of these controversial bills marks a significant moment for Oregon’s legislature and has far-reaching implications for the state. With the abortion bill, Oregon solidified its position as one of the few states with relatively unrestricted access to abortion. The trans care bill ensures that transgender and non-binary individuals receive adequate healthcare and protection against discrimination. Finally, the guns bill expands background check laws and aims to prevent gun violence.

While each of these bills faced intense scrutiny and opposition from various groups, their passing represents a significant step towards progressive policy in Oregon.