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Director's Message February 4, 2004To: DHS Employees From: Jean I. Thorne, Director As you know, the people of Oregon voted yesterday to reject Measure 30. This means the tax increases the Legislature used to help balance the 2003-05 budget will not go into effect. As a result, we must now implement a plan for achieving the $207 million in program reductions that we have been mandated to cut from our 2003-05 budget. We will make every effort to minimize the effect these budget reductions will have on the people we serve, but it is clear that the level of service we can provide Oregonians will be reduced. In the coming weeks, we will continue working to finalize that plan and to gain ultimate approval from the Governor to implement the necessary reductions. At a press conference this morning, for instance, the Governor indicated that he would work to preserve coverage for the people and benefits currently available under the Oregon Health Plan (OHP) Plus program. At the same time, he indicated that those on OHP Standard would lose coverage. As I've noted in previous communications, most of the budget reductions will occur in May at the earliest. Changes to OHP, because they will require negotiations and approval by the federal government, will likely not occur until the summer. While these service reductions are clearly a setback, we must also view them as a challenge. We are challenged to remain dedicated to our work and to look for creative ways to solve problems. And finally, we are challenged to keep focused on helping the citizens of our state become and remain independent, healthy and safe. As always, I will keep you informed on all pertinent issues in as timely a manner as possible. Thank you again for all that you have done — and for all that I know you will do to address these challenges. Back to top |
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