Sam Dunaway | News Editor

Oregon Measure 101, Healthcare Insurance Premiums Tax for Medicaid Referendum, is on the ballot for the special election on Jan. 23, 2018. The measure addresses taxes on hospitals and insurance companies to fund Medicaid, which provides healthcare coverage to 1 in 4 Oregonians.

Arguments in support of Measure 101

• Taxes imposed on insurance companies and hospitals would provide funding for healthcare for low-income individuals and families.
• The Measure will stabilize insurance premiums purchased by individuals and families.
• Over 1 million Oregonians benefit from the Oregon Health Plan.
• All Oregonians will have access to mental health care.
• A “no” vote would require budget cuts to be made in other areas of the state budget.

Arguments in opposition of Measure 101

• Measure 101 will impose a tax on student health plans.
• Middle-class families that don’t qualify for government-funded health plans will pay an increased healthcare tax.
• Oregon school districts will pay $25 million for healthcare taxes.
• Medicaid provides healthcare to immigrant children illegally residing in Oregon.
• Increased taxes will affect small businesses more than insurance companies.

Visit oregon.gov for more information.

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu