SALEM, Ore.-A public hearing on a bill introduced in the Oregon House of Representatives that would provide medical assistance for low-income Veterans was held on March 11.
House Bill 2537 is now in the House Committee on Emergency Management, General Government and Veterans, which is Chaired by Representative Thuy Tran (D-NE Portland).
“Too many Oregon Veterans are struggling to get even basic healthcare, and the consequences are devastating,” said Rep. Tran, who also serves as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Oregon Air National Guard.
Beginning in 2026, HB 2537 would establish the Veterans Waiver Program within the Oregon Health Authority to provide medical assistance for low-income Veterans in the state.
According to Rep. Tran’s Office, the bill would ensure that Veterans receive immediate healthcare services, while also being connected to long-term benefits, such as mental health resources through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
“I know that behind every statistic is a real person-someone who served their country and deserves access to lifesaving care,” said Rep. Tran.
The waiver program created under HB 2537 is intended to fill the gap in medical coverage faced by some Veterans in Oregon who may not quality for Oregon Health Plan (OHP) coverage or VA services, due to eligibility issues or long wait times.
“This legislation is a critical step to ensuring that no Veteran is left behind when it comes to medical care,” said Rep. Tran.
Resources for Veterans in Eastern Oregon
Umatilla County Veterans Services with offices in Hermiston, Pendleton and Milton-Freewater
The Pacific Northwest Veterans Alliance in Hermiston
Eastern Oregon VA Clinic in Hines
