State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council will meet

Two events being held at the Samaritan Center for Health Education in Newport will touch on different aspects of aging.

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has released its annual report on physician assisted suicide under the so called "Death with dignity Act (DWDA)", which shows an almost 30% increase in the number of prescriptions written for lethal doses of medication under the Act in 2023. The DWDA was a citizens' initiative passed twice by Oregon voters. The first time was in a general election in November 1994 when it passed by a margin of 51% to 49%. An injunction delayed implementation of the Act until it was lifted on October 27, 1997. In November 1997, a measure was placed on the general election ballot to repeal the DWDA. Voters chose to retain the DWDA by a margin of 60% to 40%.

The purpose of the Council is to recommend an action plan to guide awareness education, and usage of artificial intelligence in state government that aligns with the State’s policies, goals, and values and supports public servants to deliver customer service more efficiently and effectively. The recommended action plan shall include concrete executive actions, policies, and investments needed to leverage artificial intelligence while honoring transparency, privacy, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Meetings of the State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council are open to the public. Public comment may be made during the meeting. Sign-up for public comment is required as spots are limited. Sign-up closes Friday, March 15 at noon. Written comment will also be accepted. Written comment can be submitted by mail to the Council Support Office, 550 Airport Rd SE Suite C, Salem, OR 97301 or online.

Due to long-standing challenges with provider staffing, Adventist Health has announced the closure of its medical offices in Sheridan, Welches and Lincoln City. These closures are due to the years-long efforts and difficulty recruiting qualified providers in these rural communities. “We have faced significant challenges with not only recruiting but retaining providers in these areas, even working with national and renown recruiting firms with a high track record of success have not helped the situation,” said Eric Swanson, President of Adventist Health Tillamook. The clinic in Lincoln City will close on April 12, Hoodland in Welches on April 1, and Sheridan on March 17. 

I won’t bore you with the background on why we do these during election years, but only to reiterate the focus should be on key fixes and some budgeting.

According to a press release from Oregon Senate Republican Caucus spokesperson Ashley Kuenzi, "The Oregon Supreme Court has officially sided with Democrats on Measure 113, effectively ending the service of 10 Republican senators – one-third of the Oregon Senate." "We obviously disagree with the Supreme Court’s ruling. But more importantly, we are deeply disturbed by the chilling impact this decision will have to crush dissent,” said Senate Republican Leader Tim Knopp (R-Bend).

At least nine Oregon State Parks have closed or partially closed due to ice, snow and downed trees along the North Coast and valley. Visitors are encouraged to check park pages on the state park website before visiting as well as local forecasts and TripCheck for road conditions.

Enjoy guided nature hikes, seasonal crafts and educational activities at the Silver Falls State Park Winter Festival 10a.m. to 4p.m. Saturday and Sunday December 9 and 10. Visitors will have a chance to learn about the park in winter including the changing landscapes and habitats for resident and migratory birds and animals. Activities include guided walks and talks; building bird nest boxes; making bird feeders and paper bird crafts; creating wreaths and decorating gingerbread and sugar cookies.

The Oregon Department of Health and Human Services (ODHS) is offering another way to get help with state medical, food, cash, and child care benefits and avoid potentially high call wait times at the ONE Customer Service Center.