HB 4179
Permits the Oregon Health and Science University to create and maintain a nonprofit corporation under the laws of this state so long as the university is a corporate member of the corporation.
Jurisdiction
Oregon
Session
2026 Regular Session
At the request of
(at the request of Oregon Health and Science University)
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Sign in to take actionPublic sentiment
Support
33%
Oppose
67%
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
House Bill 4179 allows the Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) to establish and operate a separate, nonprofit corporation within Oregon. This new corporation would be affiliated with OHSU, with OHSU maintaining a membership stake. The bill aims to provide a legal framework for OHSU to pursue specific activities or projects through this independent entity, while also addressing certain legal considerations related to employment, professional practice, and corporate governance.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
House Committee On Rules
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
Supporters of the proposed legislation emphasize the importance of strengthening labor protections for nonprofit organizations affiliated with OHSU. They advocate for a statute that would categorize these entities as public employers under PECBA, ensuring they adhere to similar standards and regulations as other public entities. This provision is seen as crucial in safeguarding the rights of workers employed by these nonprofits, many of whom are essential to delivering healthcare services and supporting OHSU's mission. By aligning labor protections with those of public employers, supporters aim to promote fairness, equity, and consistency in the treatment of workers across various sectors.
Source: Testimony Summaries
Arguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
Opponents of the proposed legislation express concern that maintaining public hospital status would be more beneficial for patients, as non-profit hospitals are prioritizing profits over quality patient care. They argue that high executive salaries, with some leaders making millions, indicate a lack of focus on improving patient care. Furthermore, opponents believe that shifting patient care to a third-party nonprofit corporation under HB 4179 could lead to increased liability for malpractice and potentially corrupt activities, undermining the public's trust in healthcare institutions.
Source: Testimony Summaries
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