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Senate extends health coverage protections for foster youth moving to Oregon
Summary
Senate Bill 945 was approved to ensure foster care youth who move to Oregon continue to qualify for Medicaid‑like benefits until age 26; the Oregon Health Authority must seek federal funds to offset costs.
Senators passed Senate Bill 945 on March 24 to extend continuity of health coverage for foster youth who move to Oregon from other states.
Senator Hayden, the bill carrier, said previous sessions allowed Oregon foster youth to keep health coverage until age 26, but a gap remained for youth who moved from other states. The bill ensures a foster youth who qualifies for Medicaid services remains eligible in Oregon up to age 26.
The measure also requires the Oregon Health Authority to apply for federal reimbursement funds (typically covering about 75 percent of costs) to offset state expenses when applicable, the carrier said. Supporters argued the change reduces barriers for young adults aging out of foster care and helps with housing, education and employment transitions.
SB 945 passed on third reading and was declared to have received a constitutional majority.
