Representative Thuy Tran (D–NE Portland) is leading efforts to expand health care access for Oregon veterans through HB 2537. The bill was heard on March 11 in the House Committee on Emergency Management, General Government, and Veterans, which Rep. Tran chairs.
This bill establishes the Veterans Waiver Program within the Oregon Health Authority to provide medical assistance for low-income veterans residing in Oregon, beginning in 2026. The program addresses the critical healthcare gap many Oregon veterans face when they don’t qualify for OHP or VA services; whether due to eligibility issues, long wait times, or other obstacles. This lack of access has devastating consequences, particularly for veterans facing mental health challenges.
“I’ve served alongside veterans my entire career as a health care provider and a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air National Guard. I know that behind every statistic is a real person—someone who served their country and deserves access to lifesaving care,” said Rep. Thuy Tran (D–NE Portland). “Too many Oregon veterans are struggling to get even basic health care, and the consequences are devastating. This legislation is a critical step to ensuring that no veteran is left behind when it comes to medical care.”
This bill comes at a time when Oregon’s veteran suicide rate has raised significantly higher than both the national veteran suicide rate and the state’s civilian suicide rate. HB 2537 ensures that veterans receive immediate healthcare services while also being connected to long-term benefits through the VA. By bridging gaps in coverage and enrollment, the bill works to provide veterans with comprehensive and sustained care when they need it most.
In addition to HB 2537, Rep. Tran is leading efforts to give Oregon health care providers the opportunity to do essential suicide prevention and military cultural competency training through HB 2538.
The bill addresses high veteran suicide rates by asking for two hours of continuing education every six years for physicians and physician associates on suicide risk assessment, treatment, and lethal means counseling. The Oregon Medical Board will oversee the training to ensure high-quality, standardized education that benefits both healthcare providers and veterans.
The public hearing on these bills can be viewed here.
