Our Top Priority Bill Advances!
HB 3838, our Union’s top priority bill at the Oregon legislature, was approved by the House Rules committee yesterday afternoon and will now go to the Joint Committee on Ways and Means. This is big news for SEIU 503 members and caregivers across the state. The bill would create a workforce standards board made up of care providers, employers, and government representatives to establish state-wide standards for pay, training, working conditions, and more.
The legislative session must end by the end of the month, and we’re facing serious opposition from the industry. Make sure you do your part to help pass this game-changing legislation. Email your legislators today and tell them to vote YES on HB 3838!
Homecare Bargaining Continues Next Week
We are continuing to bargain our contract with management at the state of Oregon, with our next session scheduled for Tuesday, June 17th. We will have an update for you shortly afterward.
In Case You Missed It (ICYMI): Recap of Our Fund Oregon Now Rally!
More than 1,500 union members and community allies gathered at the Capitol last Thursday to urge lawmakers to prioritize vital services. SEIU 503, Oregon AFSCME, and OEA members joined together to demand investments in education, childcare, housing, healthcare, and support for public workers.
With Oregon’s strong reserves, now is the time to invest in our communities—not make cuts. This rally was just the beginning. We’re standing united to tell lawmakers: Fund Oregon Now!
David Huerta Rally
On Monday, hundreds of members from unions across Oregon and community supporters rallied to protest the detention of our union brother, SEIU California President David Huerta, who was peacefully protesting ICE raids in Los Angeles. Although Huerta is free on a $50,000 bond, we are now calling for the charges to be dismissed, and we continue to encourage peaceful demonstrations against federal government overreach.
When you take one of us on, you take all of us on.
Around Our Union: Meadow Park Workers Win Again
Workers at Meadow Park nursing home in St. Helens have secured another major victory—protecting their healthcare and paid time off (PTO) benefits during a change in ownership. Last fall, they made history as Oregon’s first nursing home to authorize a strike, winning access to the Essential Workers Healthcare Trust (EWHT), stronger staffing standards, and big wage increases.
This spring, new buyer Kalesta Healthcare proposed replacing the affordable EWHT plan with one far more expensive and cutting PTO in half. Workers quickly mobilized with petitions, workplace actions, and strike preparations. Just days before the sale closed, Kalesta backed down and agreed to preserve the benefits. Once again, Meadow Park workers proved the power of unity!
June is PRIDE Month!
June is Pride Month — a time to celebrate the rich heritage, vibrant culture, and powerful contributions of LGBTQ+ members in our union and across the labor movement. Despite ongoing attacks on LGBTQ+ rights, we continue to rise up, organize, and lead on the job and in the fight for justice. Pride Month is not just a celebration; it’s a call to action.
We reflect on the progress we’ve made, defend the victories we’ve won, and recommit to building a future where all working people are safe, visible, heard and respected — no matter who they are or who they love. In our union, we know: Pride is protest. Pride is power. Watch our social media channels for updates on events taking place near you.
Juneteenth Celebrations Across Oregon
Juneteenth is a week away and members of our SEIU Local 503 AFRAM Caucus will participate in events statewide. Click here to find one near you and join us!
Summer Columbia Discount This Month
As SEIU 503 members, we are offered occasional special sales at local companies throughout the year. Now through June 29th, members can enjoy up to 40% at the Columbia Store in Portland. See details below:
