Rural Health Programs in Funding Danger
Oregon is in the process of applying for funds from the Rural Health Transformation Program, a federal program created under the Trump administration’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act to improve health care in rural communities.
Clare Pierce Wrobel, director of health policy and analytics for the Oregon Health Authority, said at a recent public forum that regardless of whether Oregon receives the funding, it comes amid historic cuts to Medicaid.
“The federal funding through this program is not intended to offset the HR1 Medicaid cuts and in fact is a fairly small amount compared to the cuts that we are anticipating just in the state of Oregon alone,” Pierce Wrobel pointed out.
The program offers at least $100 million per year for five years to qualifying states, but Oregon expects to lose about $5 billion in federal Medicaid funds over the same period.
Stephanie Jarem, health policy director for the OHA, said the funds will support chronic disease prevention, technology innovation, and access to care.
“The goal that we’ve laid out at this point for Oregon would be ensuring that all people and communities in rural Oregon can achieve optimum physical, mental, and social well-being at every stage of life,” Jarem emphasized.
Weather Warnings for the Coast
a Gale Warning is in effect along the central coastal area. Southwest winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts up to 60 mph, are expected Saturday from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.. These strong winds may bring down trees and power lines, in addition Hazardous Seas Conditions are forecasted this afternoon and evening: waves of 13 to 16 feet or higher are expected near the bar and offshore zones. According to the national weather service it it not a good couple of days to be out on the water. Florence residents should secure loose outdoor items, be cautious on Highway 101 and avoid travel near the waterfront.
Tourism Dollars
Lane County’s visitor industry continues to be a powerful economic driver, supporting one in nine jobs across the region last year. Travel Lane County reports that more than three and a half million overnight stays fueled direct visitor spending exceeding one-point-one billion dollars — generating nearly fifty-three million in state and local tax revenue. While lodging tax receipts dipped slightly due to new hotel openings and lower daily rates, the overall impact remains strong, nearly doubling pre-pandemic levels. Florence and the central coast continue to attract visitors year-round, with growing interest in arts, festivals, and food experiences. Tourism leaders say sustained investment remains key to strengthening local economies across Western Lane County.
