Governor Kotek Signs ‘Healthcare Without Fear Act’

PORTLAND, Ore. (April 9, 2026) — Tina Kotek on Thursday signed a landmark bill aimed at safeguarding patient access to healthcare and limiting the role of federal immigration enforcement in medical settings.

The measure, known as the Healthcare Without Fear Act (Senate Bill 1570), was ceremonially signed during an event at the Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization, alongside other legislation included in the state’s 2026 Immigrant Justice Package.

Supporters say the new law establishes clear standards for how federal immigration agents may operate within hospitals, strengthens protections for patient privacy, and ensures individuals can seek medical care without fear related to their immigration status.

The bill was a top legislative priority for the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA), which advocated for stronger protections for both patients and healthcare workers.

“I became a nurse to care for all patients—regardless of their background or immigration status,” said Ellie Murray, an ONA member and registered nurse at Oregon Health & Science University. “The Healthcare Without Fear Act demonstrates our commitment to care for our neighbors and allows everyone to seek care without fear.”

Under the law, hospitals are required to develop formal policies governing interactions with law enforcement, designate a staff liaison to coordinate those interactions, and clearly define public versus private areas within medical facilities. The legislation also expands patient privacy protections by classifying immigration status and place of birth as protected health information.

Additionally, the law allows healthcare providers to share information with patients about immigration rights and available legal services.

Cristian Mendoza Ruvalcaba, an ONA member and nurse practitioner, said the legislation addresses concerns that fear of enforcement can deter people from seeking care.

“As a nurse practitioner, I’ve seen the consequences when people are too afraid to get care—illnesses worsen, public health risks increase, and trust in healthcare systems erodes,” Mendoza Ruvalcaba said.

The law comes amid broader national debate over immigration enforcement practices. Supporters pointed to similar legislation passed in California in 2025 and recent federal policy changes that removed long-standing “sensitive location” protections, which had previously limited immigration enforcement actions at places like hospitals, schools, and houses of worship.

Advocates say those changes have already had local impacts in Oregon, citing reports of enforcement actions near or within healthcare settings, including incidents that allegedly disrupted patient care and raised concerns among medical staff.

Stephanie Funk, a nurse at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center and ONA member, said clearer legal standards are needed.

“We have seen federal immigration officers in clinical areas where they should not be and in situations that interfere with patient care,” Funk said. “Clear, consistent laws like this are essential to allow healthcare professionals to do our jobs.”

The Healthcare Without Fear Act is part of a broader legislative package introduced in 2026 aimed at strengthening protections for immigrant communities across Oregon.

State officials and advocates say the measure is intended to reinforce the principle that healthcare facilities remain safe and accessible spaces for all residents.