In a move reflecting an unwavering stance on reproductive freedom, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has overseen the initiation of a new agreement with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), ensuring continued access to Mifepristone for medical abortion services. This step is directly related to the recent national election outcomes. Kotek's actions solidify Oregon's commitment to reproductive rights amidst a volatile federal climate that has seen numerous challenges to such services across the country.
Last April, under Kotek's direction, OHA combined forces with OHSU to secure a crucial three-year Mifepristone supply that was set to expire in September 2025. In the wake of recent political changes, OHSU has successfully extended this supply until September 2028. According to a statement by Governor Tina Kotek, "Oregon is not immune from federal attacks on our reproductive rights. In our state, patients will continue to access the medication they need and providers will deliver these critical services without fear or harassment."
This is not the first instance of Kotek prioritizing reproductive health equity, a theme that has punctuated her political career. During her tenure as the Oregon House Speaker, she was pivotal in passing the Reproductive Health Equity Act (RHEA) in 2017. Her advocacy continued into her governorship, mandating regulators to ensure that insurers complied with reproductive health care regulations through corrective action plans and ongoing oversight.
Further cementing her legacy, Kotek signed the Access to Reproductive Health Care law, House Bill 2002, last summer. The legislation bolsters protections for access to reproductive health care and allocates state funds to back community organizations and clinical partners across Oregon. The goal is to widen the availability of reproductive health services to meet the diverse needs of state residents.
Kotek's administration remains active in discussions with legislative leaders and relevant partners to gauge the implications of the shifting federal landscape for Oregon's reproductive health care provisions. The governor's statements in English and Spanish can access the full response to the general election.
