Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has declared March 10 as “Abortion Provider Appreciation Day” in an effort to reaffirm the state’s commitment to maintaining access to abortion care. Kotek emphasized that abortion is healthcare and providers should be appreciated and supported. Following the November election, Kotek directed the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) to partner with OHSU to replace the three-year supply of Mifepristone, a medication approved by the FDA for miscarriage management and ending pregnancies. The governor continues to work with providers and the OHA to monitor and mitigate federal threats to reproductive care.
Oregon Senate Republicans criticized Kotek’s prioritization of “abortion provider appreciation” over addressing other issues in the state, such as crime, schools, and affordability. In 2023, Kotek signed the Access to Reproductive Health Care law, House Bill 2002, which protects access to reproductive healthcare and provides state funding to support community organizations and clinical partners. The bill also allows minors to undergo sex reassignment surgery or obtain an abortion without parental consent. GOP leaders, including Justin Hwang of the Oregon Republican Party, expressed concern over the bill’s implications and criticized it for prioritizing woke ideology over common sense.
Reproductive health equity has been a long-time priority for Kotek, both during her time as speaker of the Oregon House and as governor. The Pro-Life group “Oregon Right to Life” opposed the governor’s proclamation of “Abortion Provider Appreciation Day,” stating that they do not support celebrating abortion but honoring those who have chosen to leave the industry. Data from the Oregon Health Authority indicated that of the 10,075 abortions provided in Oregon in 2023, 1,661 were performed for out-of-state residents, a nearly 60% increase from the previous year.
Oregon Republicans, including the state GOP chairman, have condemned Kotek’s legislative actions, particularly HB 2002, which they consider to be a significant loss for children and parents. They criticized the bill for allowing minors to make life-changing decisions without parental consent or notification. The governor’s office defended the bill as a step towards ensuring broader access to reproductive healthcare and supporting marginalized communities in the state. Kotek’s administration is committed to upholding values of reproductive healthcare access in the face of federal threats.
The declaration of Abortion Provider Appreciation Day in Oregon has sparked debate among state officials and advocacy groups, with differing views on the value and importance of recognizing abortion providers. Critics argue that the governor should focus on addressing pressing issues like crime and education instead of prioritizing abortion-related initiatives. Supporters of Kotek’s efforts emphasize the importance of safeguarding access to reproductive healthcare, including abortion, in an uncertain political climate. The proclamation of Abortion Provider Appreciation Day reflects the ongoing national debate on reproductive rights and the role of state governments in protecting healthcare access.
