The Federal Government Shutdown is Over. What’s Next? 

The deal reached this week to reopen the federal government is no victory for working people—it’s a reminder of the harm caused when political leaders choose shutdowns over solutions. For weeks, families across the country faced rising healthcare costs, millions lost access to food assistance, and federal workers went without pay. Communities that rely on federal services and local economies supported by federal jobs were left to suffer while Republican leaders and the Trump Administration continued attacks on immigrant communities and refused to act on lowering healthcare costs.

SEIU members stepped up throughout the longest shutdown in U.S. history, demanding that Congress protect affordable healthcare and stop using vulnerable communities as bargaining chips. We will continue fighting to reverse the damage caused by the Big Beautiful Bill Act by pushing Congress to extend ACA premium tax credits, restore Medicaid funding, and prevent hospital closures.

This shutdown made one thing clear: working people won’t forget who caused this crisis—or who stood with us. As Congress returns to work and the budget process continues, SEIU members will keep holding elected officials accountable. When the current funding bill expires in January, we will be watching to see who fights to lower healthcare costs, protect essential services, and put families before billionaires. Working people don’t fold—we fight forward.

Get Paid to Share Your Experience: Join the OHA Health Equity and Services Study 

Be the Change for Workers, Run for Union Office

You can help shape Our Union’s Future. SEIU 503 Elections are Happening Now.  

SEIU 503 is a Democratic, member run union of 70,000 people who work as care providers, in nonprofit industries or in public service jobs around the state. Sublocals will soon elect their next group of leaders for a two-year term.

We will elect more than 700 leaders to a variety of positions such as the Board of Directors, sublocal officers, and statewide officers. The union members in these roles will shape our work over the next two years as we bargain strong contracts, represent working people, and grow our union. We encourage you to run for office and, of course, vote.

Participating in union elections is the best way that you can shape the course of our future. Your voice matters – add it to the conversation. You may nominate yourself, or another member can nominate you. Nominations for Homecare/PSW leaders close on December 12, 2025, and voting will take place in Spring 2026.

For more information about the election of officers in every group within our union, visit SEIU503.org/WeAre503.

The Holidays Can Be Tough — Support Is Here for You 

The holiday season is upon us – and while it can be a joyful time, it can also bring stress and worry – especially for Oregon’s homecare and personal support workers who give so much of yourselves to others. 

With grocery prices, rent, and other essentials more expensive than ever, and so many government services in disarray, it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed.

If you’re struggling — whether with finances, stress, family issues, or grief — help is available. Through the Carewell SEIU 503 Employee Assistance Program (EAP), you and your family can access free, confidential counseling, financial and legal advice, and other support services 24/7.

You spend your days caring for others — and you deserve care too. Learn more or get support here.

Oregon Ducks Honor Union Members with Exclusive Ticket Discounts

We’re excited to share that the Oregon Ducks Basketball teams are recognizing union members and their families! The Ducks have invited all union members, their families, and supporters to join them at Matthew Knight Arena for the annual Union Member Appreciation Games. As a thank-you to union workers, the Ducks are offering an exclusive discount on tickets for these special events. Tickets can be purchased here.

Men’s Games 

• 12/13 Saturday vs UC Davis
• 2/14 Saturday vs Penn State

Women’s Games 

• December 18 Thursday vs Portland
• January 11 Sunday vs Michigan State