Latino Health Equity in Oregon: House Bill 3650 Aims to Address Gaps in Healthcare

Salem, OR – February 2025 – Latino families across Oregon face persistent healthcare disparities, from language barriers to a lack of culturally competent care. Now, with House Bill 3650, a coalition of legislators, advocates, and community leaders is taking action to close these gaps by establishing the Latino Health System Task Force. 

This initiative, championed by PODER Action Alliance, seeks to develop a sustainable healthcare framework that prioritizes culturally and linguistically appropriate services, increases Latino representation in healthcare professions, and improves health outcomes for Latino communities. 

What House Bill 3650 Will Do 

If passed, House Bill 3650 will: 

• Create the Latino Health System Task Force to research and address disparities. 

• Propose strategies to increase the Latino healthcare workforce and representation. 

• Develop a statewide healthcare model centered on the needs of Latino patients. 

• Recommend policies to improve language access and culturally competent care. 

  
  

Legislative Champions & Growing Support 

House Bill 3650 is backed by key Oregon legislators, including: 

• Rep. Lesly Muñoz (D-22) – Represents the district with Oregon’s largest Latino population. 

• Rep. Ricki Ruiz (D-50) – A longtime advocate for equity and inclusion in healthcare. 

• Sen. James Manning Jr. (D-7) – Supports policies addressing systemic healthcare disparities. 

• Sen. Lew Frederick (D-22) – A leader in health equity and accessibility initiatives. 

• Rep. Susan McLain (D-29) – Advocates for expanding culturally responsive care. 

  
  

Pushing for systemic change  

They are joined by a coalition of community leaders and organizations working toward a fair and inclusive healthcare system—one that acknowledges the significant economic and social contributions of Latinos in Oregon. Despite being a driving force in the state’s workforce and economy, Latino communities continue to face barriers to care that fail to reflect their needs, values, and health habits. As active contributors who help sustain Oregon’s healthcare system, it is only fair that policies evolve to ensure equitable access and culturally responsive services. 

PODER Action Alliance urges community organizations, healthcare professionals, and the public to support House Bill 3650 by endorsing the initiative and contacting their local representatives. 

📌 Endorse the bill today HERE   📌 Dozens of organizations have already joined—be part of the movement!