Nurses and union workers rallied for support of Senate Bill 916 during a recent Oregon Senate Committee on Labor and Business meeting, highlighting the urgent need for legislative change amid ongoing strikes across the state.

A striking nurse, who identified herself as a single mother and a member of the Oregon Nurses Association, shared her personal struggles after being on strike for over a month. She emphasized the economic crisis she faces while advocating for improved patient safety through better staffing regulations. "Providence is literally starving me out of house and home," she stated, detailing how the switch to Aetna health insurance has led to skyrocketing costs for mental health services for her daughter. Her testimony resonated with many, as she noted that her colleagues are similarly affected, facing financial hardships while fighting for their rights and the welfare of their patients.

Julia Clymer, an executive board member of AFSCME Local 2064, also voiced her support for the bill, which aims to repeal the law that denies unemployment benefits to striking workers. Clymer recounted her own struggles as a single mother living in Benton County, one of Oregon's most cost-burdened areas. She described the difficult decision to strike after nearly ten months of unsuccessful bargaining for a fair contract, emphasizing the need for a living wage to support her family.

Mike Powers, representing the SEIU State Council, echoed the call for support of Senate Bill 916, reinforcing the collective sentiment among workers that the current laws do not adequately protect their rights during strikes.

The committee plans to hold additional hearings on the bill, indicating a growing recognition of the challenges faced by workers in Oregon. As the strikes continue, the push for legislative change is becoming increasingly critical for those advocating for fair wages and better working conditions.