PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Oregon’s largest public employees union launched a statewide radio ad campaign Monday accusing Gov. John Kitzhaber of trying to eliminate health insurance for thousands of low-wage home care workers.
The Service Employees International Union represents about 12,000 workers who earn about $10 an hour to provide in-home care for the elderly and disabled.
The Oregonian reports (http://is.gd/X3Wy6c) the union and the state have been unable to agree on a contract because of a disagreement over health insurance coverage for the workers.
It will be an issue for the Legislature when it convenes next month, facing difficult budget decisions.