Oregon, Washington, and California Band Together to Create Health Policy Alliance

Governor Tina Kotek, and the Governors from California and Washington, joined together to form a western health alliance.

This comes after the CDC fired several doctors and scientists as well as a group of US Senators raised concerns surrounding Secretary Robert F. Kennedy’s vaccine policies.

This alliance will work together to create their own guidelines on vaccine recommendation informed by national medical organizations.

KTVZ spoke with State Senator Anthony Broadman to understand more about why Oregon is taking this step.

“I think this is stepping up to meet the moment. It’s an investment in evidence based solid medical guidance and pushing back on the Trump Administration’s attack on Oregonians health and safety," Senator Broadman said. "I applaud Governor Kotek for forming this alliance and making sure that Oregonians have good science based information.”

Additionally, the 3 governors also made clear they respect tribal sovereignty, recognizing their authority over vaccine services within Native American communities.

While this alliance is in the early stages, OHA Officials said they’ll roll out a list of recommendations in the near future.