"Portland Teachers' Health Insurance Expires, Sparks Controversy and Parental Outrage"

As the teachers' strike in Portland Public Schools continues, the district has informed striking teachers that their health insurance coverage will expire in December if they do not return to work by November 16. The district plans to send the teachers information on enrolling in COBRA insurance plans. The Portland Association of Teachers disputes the cutoff date, claiming that coverage actually expires on December 15. The Oregon Education Association has not commented on the matter. The shift to COBRA insurance will place a financial burden on the union, which provides a relief fund for striking teachers. The district's plan to cut off health insurance has been criticized as an "underhanded tactic" that could lead to legal action.