Oregon Senate approves bills to combat doxing and improve Medicare supplement plans

The Oregon State Legislature convened on April 17, 2025, at 10:30 AM to discuss several significant legislative measures, focusing primarily on issues of public safety and healthcare access for seniors.

The meeting commenced with a discussion on Senate Bill 1121, aimed at addressing the growing concern of doxing—an act of publicly revealing private information about individuals, often leading to harassment and threats. A senator recounted a troubling incident involving a state employee who had been doxxed, resulting in serious threats to her safety and that of her family. The bill proposes creating a new Class B misdemeanor for the unlawful disclosure of private information, requiring proof of intent to harm. This legislation is seen as a crucial step in protecting both children and community members from the dangers associated with doxing. The bill passed with a strong majority, reflecting the urgency of the issue.

Following this, the Senate turned its attention to Senate Bill 1129, which relates to urban reserves and aims to streamline the process for cities to designate land for future urban development. The bill seeks to align administrative rules with statutory priorities, allowing cities to consider existing infrastructure and geographical constraints when designating urban reserves. This measure is intended to facilitate housing development in Oregon, addressing the ongoing housing crisis. The bill also passed unanimously, indicating broad support for its objectives.

The final major topic of discussion was Senate Bill 1181, which focuses on Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) for seniors. This legislation aims to prohibit insurance companies from denying coverage or raising prices based on preexisting conditions and establishes an annual open enrollment period for these plans. Advocates argue that this bill will enhance healthcare access for seniors, allowing them to choose plans that better fit their needs without the fear of being denied coverage due to health issues. However, concerns were raised regarding potential premium increases for all seniors if the bill passes. Proponents countered that similar legislation in other states has not led to significant cost increases and that regulatory oversight would help manage any potential rate hikes. The bill is expected to undergo further amendments to address these concerns.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted critical legislative efforts aimed at enhancing public safety and improving healthcare access for Oregon's senior population. The passage of these bills reflects a commitment to addressing pressing issues within the community, with further discussions anticipated as the legislative session progresses.