Oregon caregivers advocate for House Bill 3838 to improve pay and conditions

During a recent meeting of the Oregon House Committee on Labor and Workplace Standards, the urgent need for improved wages and working conditions for direct support professionals (DSPs) was brought to the forefront. Testimonies from dedicated workers highlighted the financial struggles they face while providing essential care to vulnerable populations.

Audrey Scully, a single parent and full-time DSP, shared her personal story of hardship, revealing that her monthly income of $2,000 falls short of covering her basic expenses, which total approximately $3,000. Scully expressed the emotional toll of her situation, stating, "My family is torn apart, and our time together is stolen by poverty." She advocated for House Bill 3838, which proposes the establishment of a standards board to set fair wages and improve working conditions for caregivers. This initiative aims to reduce burnout and turnover, ultimately enhancing the quality of care provided to those in need.

Sean Nodrift, a fellow DSP with over 30 years of experience, echoed Scully's concerns, emphasizing the importance of having workers' voices represented in discussions about their pay and working conditions. He noted that better wages are crucial for retaining staff and ensuring quality care, stating, "Wages keep people on the job."

Fred Steele, the state long-term care ombudsman, also voiced support for House Bill 3838, highlighting the need for investment in caregivers. He pointed out alarming turnover rates in the industry, which currently stand at 50%, and stressed that without proper support, the quality of care for residents in facilities could be compromised.

While many speakers supported the bill, there were dissenting opinions. Former Senate President Jean Derfler argued against the bill, claiming it would disrupt the market system and lead to inefficiencies. He cautioned that government intervention in wage-setting could have negative consequences for the care industry.

As the committee continues to deliberate on House Bill 3838, the testimonies from DSPs and advocates underscore the pressing need for systemic change in the caregiving sector. The outcomes of this discussion could significantly impact the lives of caregivers and the quality of care provided to Oregon's most vulnerable residents.