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Back to All Legislative Reports Social Policy Social Policy Team Coordinator: Jean Pierce • After School and Summer Care: Katie Riley • Behavioral Health: Trish Garner • Criminal Justice/Juvenile Justice: Marge Easley / Sharron Noon • Education: Jean Pierce / Stephanie Engle • Equal Rights for All Ballot Measure: Jean Pierce Kyra Aguon • Gender-Related Concerns, Reproductive Health, Age Discrimination: Trish Garner • Gun Safety & Gun Issues, Rights for Incarcerated People: Marge Easley • Hate and Bias Crimes: Claudia Keith/ Becky Gladstone /rhyen enger • Health Care: Christa Danielsen • Housing: Debbie Aiona and Nancy Donovan Note: Education reports after January, 2024, are included in Social policy reports. Education reports prior to February, 2024, can be found HERE . Please see the Legislation Tracker for 2025 Social Policy bills . Jump to topic: Behavioral Health Child Care Education Gun Policy Healthcare Housing Legislation Immigration Behavioral Health By Trish Garner A Work Session was held regarding HB 2015- 4 in the Joint Ways & Means Subcommittee on Public Safety which returned it to the full Ways & Means Committee with a “do pass” recommendation. A Ways & Means Committee Work Session resulted in a “do pass” recommendation. This bill generally directs the Oregon Health Authority to submit to the Legislature by September 15, 2026, a report with findings and recommendations about operating secure residential facilities in Oregon. The A - 4 amendment appropriates $1.3 million in General Fund and $977,888 in federal fund monies. On the surface this bill might look more like a revenue or a study bill but instead it directs OHA to undertake important actions designed to modify current practices taking place in residential treatment facilities. For example, the OHA must adopt rules to support such facilities in developing early transition programs for residents. It is mandated to identify alternatives to the current requirements on nurse staffing, which provide that a nurse be present at all times (on call nursing doesn’t count). This requirement is particularly challenging in non-urban settings. Another ongoing problem is a requirement that a patient must be physically present in the facility in order for the facility to be paid for its services. This is particularly complicated when a patient is moving to transition from the facility. HB 2015A – A4 also seeks to evaluate methods to group patients who have similar needs for services in the same facilities and thereby optimize care. In a Work Session the Ways & Means Joint Subcommittee on Human Services passed and referred HB 2024 -6 to the full Ways & Means Committee. This bill appropriates $45,000,000.00 to the Oregon Health Authority to establish a grant program that would support the recruitment and retention of behavioral health workers at eligible entities. These entities must provide behavioral health services to youth or adults where at least half of the clients are uninsured or enrolled in Medicare or the state medical assistance program. The services include, for example, office-based medication-assisted treatment, a suicide prevention hot line, and urban American Indian and tribal mental health health programs. The bill also directs OHA to implement an incentive payment program that would increase employee wages at these facilities at rates which are commensurate with entities that aren’t providing these services. The latter presumably refers to private behavioral health care facilities. HB 2059 – 4 was heard in the Ways & Means Joint Committee on Human Services Work Session and was returned to the full Ways & Means Committee. The bill directs that OHA establish a unit dedicated to developing facilities that provide adult behavioral health services across state trauma regions and that $90,000,000,00 be appropriated to OHA for this purpose. These facilities include inpatient psychiatric facilities, residential treatment homes, adult foster homes, residential substance use disorder treatment programs and crisis facilities. The unit is directed to develop plans and provide funding for the construction and staffing of these facilities in collaboration with regional partners and practitioners. HB 2467 - 4 and -6 modifies the criteria by which an individual with a mental illness can be civilly committed or be compelled to receive treatment. On June 10th, the Ways & Means Subcommittee on Public Safety passed the bill to the full Ways & Means Committee with a “do pass” recommendation. It was then scheduled for a hearing before the W&M Committee on June 13th, but it has since been pulled from that Committee agenda. HB 2467 defines factors a court can use to justify civil commitment, which include danger to self or others, being unable to provide for basic personal needs, or having a chronic mental disorder. Dangerousness to self requires that a person engage in or threaten to engage in behavior that is likely to result in serious physical harm in the near future. The “danger to others” standard uses similar language but omits the word “serious.” Notably, both standards eliminate the current legal requirement of an “imminent” danger. The A - 4 Amendment clarifies that “serious physical harm” means serious physical injury, pain or other physiological impairment that causes a risk of death, serious and irreversible deterioration of health of any bodily organ. The A - 6 Amendment provides $6.5 million to the Oregon Health Authority for payments to community mental health programs regarding civil commitments and for providing public defense to financially eligible persons who are civilly committed. During the Subcommittee hearing, an interesting and frequently asked question was raised: assuming that HB 2467’s proposed changes in civil commitment law will result in a greater number of people qualifying for civil commitment and given the current lack of residential space for individuals with behavioral health issues, where are they going to be treated? One response is that other bills are funding increased behavioral health capacity, i.e. HB 2059 (see above) and HB 5025 , the OHA budget. The other, more complicated point articulated by proponents is that HB 2467 represents a first step in a process to more efficiently and effectively organize the delivery of behavioral health care services in Oregon. There are two processes to compel treatment for people with severe mental health symptoms; one is civil commitment and the other is the criminal “aid and assist” process. “Aid and assist” refers to the process which takes place when an individual is charged with a crime but is unable to “aid and assist” in their defense. The latter individuals are sent to the Oregon State Hospital where currently 95% of all patients at OSH are “aid and assist” patients. This situation leaves individuals with serious mental health symptoms untreated and just waiting until their symptoms result in an arrest for a crime. HB 2467 seeks to at least clarify the civil commitment process. It is also anticipated that in future Sessions the legislature may consider outpatient, not inpatient, civil commitments as well as guardianships that would support continued medication management and treatment of individuals in their communities. A Public Hearing and a Work Session were held in the Rules Committee regarding HB 3294 – 3 which resulted in a unanimous “do pass” recommendation and, due to a minimal fiscal impact, the rescission of a subsequent referral to the Ways & Means Committee. This legislation proposes changes to previous laws regarding hospital staffing plans and minimum nurse-to-patient ratios [ HB 2697 (2023) and SB 469 (2015) ]. HB 3294-3 provides that hospitals must either comply with nurse-to-patient staffing ratios established by a nurse staffing committee or if one has not been established, the hospital must comply with nursing staffing ratios applicable to the hospital. In an effort to clarify the enforcement processes, OHA is also granted the authority to consolidate complaints that contain the same complaints and assess penalties on hospitals which have not adopted a hospital-wide nurse staffing plan. On a party line vote (4 Democrats to 3 Republicans) the House Committee on Rules passed HB 3835A - 13 and referred it to Ways & Means with a ”do pass” recommendation. The bill relates to the nature of restraint that can be used in foster care settings, when and how abuse complaints can be brought against staff, processes for out-of-state foster care placements and access to secure transportation services. Rules regarding these issues were legislatively adopted in 2021 by SB 719 sponsored by Senators Sarah Gelser-Blouin and James Manning, Jr. Since these rules were adopted, Oregon has seen a 41% reduction (2021-2024; from 90 to 53 facilities) in licensed residential facilities that can serve children and youth with behavioral or psychiatric treatment. Oregon has also lost more than half (from 31 to 14) of its programs that certify foster parents who provide specialized behavioral health treatment and support. The System of Care Advisory Council sought to address these issues and made recommendations that were largely adopted in HB 3835. At the Work Session Senator Gelser-Blouin expressed her strong objection to HB 3835 – Amendment 13 and advocated on behalf of Amendment 11 which she had filed. She contends that the new rules weaken protections for foster youth. She also expressed concerns about re-establishing the use of out-of-state placements for foster youth, citing the documented abuses which took place regarding such placements prior to the 2021 passage of SB 719. Child Care By Katie Riley Oregon legislators are proposing cuts to the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) budget ( SB 5514 ) due to projected reduced funding for the state from federal sources and the corporate tax. Cuts that are proposed include the Preschool Promise program that provides preschool for 3 and 4 year olds from families whose income is up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level and Healthy Families, which provides long-term regular visits with high-need families. The cuts total about $45 million or approximately a 3% reduction from previous funding for the department. The Employment Related Day Care, which provides subsidized child care for low-income working families and has a long waitlist is not one of the programs proposed for cuts. The Oregonian article provides further details. Criminal Justice By Marge Easley HB 3582 A , which removes the civil statute of limitations for sexual assault claims, passed unanimously out of Senate Judiciary on June 11 with a do-pass recommendation and is now headed to the Senate floor. The League submitted supportive testimony for the public hearing on June 10. Education By Jean Pierce SB5516 A is awaiting third reading in the House. In recognition of the revenue forecast, this bill would provide for an adjusted current service level of almost $11.4 billion. The committee is anticipating that local revenues will total $5.6 billion in the next two years, so total formula resources are expected to be more than $16.7 billion for the 2025-27 biennium. This represents a 10.5% increase over the 2023-25 biennium. The funds would provide a welcome boost, though it still falls short of the 30% increase recommended by the American Institute of Research which recommended a 30% increase in funding, with more attention to equitable spending for the education of low income and high needs students. SB 5525 -3, the HECC budget is awaiting third reading in the Senate. For the most part, the proposed budget maintains the Current Service Level, (CSL). It is important to note that the Oregon Opportunity Grant and Benefits Navigators would at least be maintained at CSL, but legislators expressed concern that funding for the Outdoor School Program would be cut. The allocation is 6.2% below the last biennium, so this bill does nothing to address the fact that Oregon has been ranked 46th in the nation for state investment in higher education. They recognized that in future sessions, the thinking needs to shift from CSL to setting a higher target. Gun Policy By Marge Easley There was a last-minute surprise when SB 243 B was heard in House Judiciary on June 11—the appearance of a -13 amendment. If passed, the amended bill would still ban rapid-fire devices and give Oregon’s cities and counties the authority to regulate firearms in public buildings, and a new section of the bill would be added to provide an effective date of March 15, 2026, for the implementation of Measure 114, the “Reduction of Gun Violence Act.” The measure, which requires a permit to purchase a firearm and bans large-capacity magazines, has been held up in the courts since its passage in 2022 and currently awaits a ruling by the Oregon Supreme Court on its constitutionality. It was announced on June 12 that oral arguments are set for November 6. At the federal level, there was news on June 9 that sixteen states, including Oregon, filed suit against the Trump administration over its plan to allow the sale of forced-reset triggers and return to the owners those triggers that were previously seized. Last month the Justice Department made a deal with the manufacturer of the devices to allow them to be sold, despite a Biden administration determination that semiautomatic rifles equipped with the devices operate essentially as illegal machine guns. Healthcare By Christa Danielson SB 951 enrolled, signed by Governor Kotek. The bill would keep management service agencies away from patient care. It also Voids noncompetition agreements, nondisclosure agreements and nondisparagement agreements between certain business entities and medical professionals, with specified exceptions, This bill will strengthen the prohibition on the corporate practice of medicine. This bill will not allow a management service organization to set clinical policies, make diagnostic coding decisions or set prices for medical services. The League submitted testimony in support HB 2690 Insurance Mandate Review Board. In Ways and Means. This would support LPRO to study a specific number of proposed measures related to health This would cost approximately 600,000 per biennium. This is the third year for similar bills to be promoted and is designed to provide more in-depth analysis of proposed health insurance mandates. The Committee would not set policy but would examine proposed legislation for scientific proof of benefit, equality and accessibility along with cost to the health system. The bill is in Ways and Means but has strong support from the Legislators. HB 3212 Pharmacy Benefit Managers-attempts to save rural pharmacies by limiting the powers of Pharmacy Benefit managers who have been previously able to determine where someone should go for their medications, get deals that are not passed on to patients and/or attempt to get money from pharmacies after the point of sale without a possibility of appeal. The bill is in House Rules. SB 296 A This bill would authorize a study of discharges from the hospital to an appropriate level of care. This is to be done by the Department of Health and OHA. This bill is a continuation of a volunteer work group who came up with ten recommendations to help get patients out of the hospital who do not need hospital level of care. The bill contains many items but importantly the study would examine how to get patients on medicaid faster, but would also include money to cover 100 days of nursing home care for medicaid patients discharged from the hospital. Money is also included to study the regulatory environment for care settings, study options to increase adult foster home settings, and to study options to waive asset testing for Medicaid coverage of long term care. The fiscal amount asked for is around 8 million for the biennium, but would provide very important work to facilitate appropriate usage of hospital and help hospitals maintain services. This bill is assigned to the Joint Ways and Means subcommittee on Human Services. Hb 3134 Will require reporting by insurances of Prior Authorizations to DCBS make data available to the public. This date will include number of days it takes to make a PA determination, the number of appeals and the time spent. This bill would also prohibit insurers to require additional prior authorization during a surgical procedure if further surgeries are deemed necessary. This bill had broad support and passed the House and the Senate. LWVOR testified in support. Housing By Nancy Donovan and Debbie Aiona HB 5011 Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) Budget The Legislative Fiscal Office recommends a 2025-27 total funds budget for the Housing and Community Services Department of $2,667,240,094 and 478 positions (474.50 FTE). This is a 28.2% decrease from the 2023-25 legislatively approved budget, and 39.3% increase from the 2025-27 current service level. The recommended budget includes the following General Fund investments: · $204.9 million General Fund to support homeless and emergency shelters. · $50.3 million General Fund rehousing services; HB 5011 – Work Session Recommendations. · $87.4 million in one-time General Fund support for long term (up to 24 months) rental assistance. · $33.6 million General Fund for eviction prevention services. · $10 million General Fund to support housing initiatives of Oregon’s nine federally recognized Native American tribes. · $8 million to fund an increase in the services subsidy rate for housing units in the agency’s permanent supportive housing portfolio. · $3.9 million for downpayment assistance. · $2 million for foreclosure avoidance services provided by certified housing counsellors. · $2 million for manufactured home repair and replacement. This budget, released on June 10, included a substantial reduction from the $130.2 million allocated in 2023-25 for emergency rent assistance and homelessness prevention to $33.6 million for the 2025-27 budget currently proposed by the Legislature. Housing advocates have expressed concern over the large reduction in what is a highly cost-effective approach to addressing homelessness. Keeping people in housing is much less expensive than funding a shelter bed. Moving people from shelters to housing is complex, costly, and has a lower success rate. Governor Kotek acknowledged the difficult choices facing the Legislature this session. In recognition of the importance of preventing homelessness, the Legislative Fiscal Office included a budget note in its June 10 letter to the Transportation and Economic Development Committee. It recommends that OHCS report back to the Joint Ways and Means Committee in February 2026 with a recommendation for maximizing direct assistance to households in need of eviction and homelessness prevention services. Bills passed HB 2964 A Enrolled requires OHCS to award loans for the predevelopment costs of affordable housing and a grant to assist nonprofits receiving grants or loans. The bill passed the House Committee on Housing and Homelessness on April 15. It was then referred to the Senate Committee on Housing and Development. The bill passed the Senate on June 12 with 24 Ayes; and 4 Nays. LWV testimony supported passage of this bill. HB 3054 A Enrolled will limit rent increases and sales constraints by a landlord in a home park or marina, which can threaten residents’ ability to stay in their homes. It creates an exception for certain infrastructure upgrades approved by a vote of the tenants. It will fix at six percent maximum rent increases for rental spaces in larger facilities and will limit to 10 percent the maximum increase in rent paid by the purchaser of a dwelling or home in a facility. It will prohibit a landlord from requiring aesthetic improvements or internal inspections as conditions of sale. The bill passed the House, and the Senate Committee on Housing and Development held a work session on May 19 and recommended passage. On June 12 the bill was passed by the Senate with 17 Ayes and 10 Nays. LWVOR submitted a letter in support. HB 3521 is now headed to Gov. Kotek’s desk for her signature. It will allow Oregon renters who haven’t signed a lease agreement to have their deposits returned if the home has mold, unsafe electrical wiring or other defects making it uninhabitable. With so few rentals available for prospective tenants,”hold deposits” can help renters secure a home. However, some landlords have taken advantage of the system to pressure renters to accept residences that do not meet health and safety standards. Landlords will have five days to return deposits or face a fee equivalent to the deposit they charged or more. The bill passed the House Committee on Housing and Homelessness on April 17 in a 33-18 vote, and on June 12, it passed the Senate Committee on Housing and Development in a 20 - 8 vote. When enacted, the bill will apply to deposits received on or after Jan. 1, 2026. Bill Progressing The Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Transportation and Economic Development held work session this week on SB 829 A which would require the Department of Consumer and Business Services to establish an Affordable Housing Premium Assistance Fund to help eligible entities with the costs of paying property insurance or liability insurance premiums for affordable housing, shelters and other facilities. It also requires the department to study the feasibility of creating and operating a state reinsurance program or devising another solution to support price stability in the market for insurance to cover affordable housing. The Joint Ways and Means Committee held a work session on June 13 and voted Do Pass with an -A3 Amendment. Immigration By Becky Gladstone and Claudia Keith Highlights - News League of W omen Voters Condemns Use of Federal Force on Peaceful Protestors | League of Women Voters (last updated June 8 2025) Protests grow across the U.S. as peopl e push against Trump’s mass deportation policies - OPB Trump Shifts Deportation Focus, Pausing Most Raids on Farms, Hotels and Eaterie s - The New York Times Trump administration tells immigrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela they have to leave - ABC News Immigration officers on fast track to deportation | Oregon / Northwest | centraloregondaily.com New Washington laws strengthen protections for immigrant communities amid federal attacks | Local News | Spokane | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News President Trump Tells Citizens to ‘Fiercely Guard’ American Way of Life in New Naturalization Ceremony Message Friday, June 13 – Washington State House Democrats Legislative Bulletin — Friday, June13, 2025 - National Immigration Forum Oregon Legislature BIPOC Caucus - Social Media Link Click Scroll Bar on Bottom of Table to View All Columns Bill # Description Policy Committee Status Fiscal M$ Chief Sponsors+ Comments SB 149 A Immigration (support services) JWM waiting for Fiscal Y Sen Jama -3 amendment SB 599A Immig status: discrimination in RealEstate transactions Gov Signed Eff 5/28/2 5 N Sen Campos SB 611 Food for All Oregonians - for undocumented JWM 8 Sen Campos Rep Ruiz amendment -1 SB 703 a bipartisan immigration status update funding bill JWM 6 Sen Reynolds, Rep Neron, Ruiz, Smith G Testimony HB 2548 Agricultural Workforce Labor Standards Board. Study Bill, see -7 amend H Rules WS 6/16 possibly w néw amendments. -6 0.6 Rep Valderrama, Nelson , Munoz League Testimony Fiscal -7 Amendment HB 2976 funding for interpretation of indigenous languages. JWM 1.5 Rep Hartman HB2788 funding to nonprofits to assist w lawful permanent resident status / legal aid - HC ECHS - JWM dead Rep Neron, Ruiz, Sen Reynolds * likely end of session Reconcilation Bill HB 2586 A nonresident tuition exemption for asylum seekers. Gov Signed RepHudson, SenCampos League Testi mony HB 2543 funds for universal representation and gives funds to Oregon State Bar for legal immigration matters HC Jud dead 15 Rep Valderrama, Sen Manning Jr, Rep Walters, Andersen, McLain, Sen Campos DAS - see sb 703 HB3193A Farm Worker Relief Fund JWM 10 Rep Marsh, SenPham, RepValderrama OHA HB 5002 Oregon Worker Relief Fund (Prev yr legal rep funds eliminated) JWM WS was 5/29, passed LFO d etails Amendment Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Climate Emergency , Governance , and Natural Resources , and Revenue report sections.

Back to All Legislative Reports Natural Resources Legislative Report - Week of 2/5 Natural Resources Team Coordinator: Peggy Lynch Coastal Issues: Christine Moffitt, Peggy Lynch Columbia River Treaty: Philip Thor Dept. of Geology and Mineral Industries: Joan Fryxell Emergency Management: Rebecca Gladstone Forestry: Josie Koehne Elliott State Research Forest: Peggy Lynch Northwest Energy Coalition: Robin Tokmakian Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife: Melanie Moon Oregon Health Authority Drinking Water Advisory Committee: Sandra Bishop Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board: Water: Peggy Lynch Wildfire: Carolyn Mayers Ways and Means Natural Resource Budgets/Revenue: Peggy Lynch Jump to a topic: Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) Air Quality Budgets/Revenue Climate Coastal Issues Dept. of State Lands (DSL) Drinking Water Advisory Board Elliott State Research Forest Forestry Land Use and Housing Reduce/Recycle Water Wildfire Volunteers Needed The 2024 short session runs Feb. 5 through March 10th. Bills in most committees must be scheduled for a work session by Feb. 12 and acted on by Feb. 19 th in the first chamber. The legislative calendar is posted on the Oregon Legislature website . Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) Lisa Charpolliz Hanson was confirmed by the Oregon Senate on Feb. 9 th as the permanent Dept. of Agriculture Director . Air Quality The 2022 Air Quality Monitoring Report is now available on Oregon DEQ’s website . Budgets/Revenue By Peggy Lynch On Feb. 7 th , the House and Senate Revenue Committees heard the latest Revenue Forecast . The revenue from December was only up $76 million, but in closing the books for the 2021-23 session, an additional $446 million was returned to the General Fund unspent. There is about $1.656 billion total to be allocated. However, some legislators have shared that, because much of that money will need to be used for housing (the Governor asked for $600 million), Measure 110 costs (both behavior health and community safety), childcare ($78 million or more) and other priorities, there may be only $100 million for other legislator requests. Peter Wong of the Portland Tribune reports “Steiner said she wants to maintain the transfer of 1% of the budget’s ending balance to the state’s general reserve, known as the rainy-day fund, which is required by law. She also said an additional amount should be reserved for the full two-year cost of new programs started in this budget cycle.” “The economists have trimmed their outlook for revenue growth later this decade.” LC 305 was filed on Feb. 7 th as the beginning omnibus budget bill for 2024. (It will become a Senate Bill.) You will see items approved during the November and January Legislative Days in LC 305. Then there are state agency adjustments that have been requested. And monies to be saved in case of emergencies (such as our summer wildfire season) before the 2025 session and changing needs under the Oregon Health Authority and Dept. of Human Services. Currently there are concerns about revenue for that 2025-27 session so budget writers will want to keep money to cover those expected costs. Bonding capacity remains the same: $65.8 million in remaining general obligation bond capacity and $27.4 million in remaining lottery bond capacity for the 2023-25 biennium. See LC 308 and LC 309 that will be filled with bonding requests. These will be House bills and will show up in the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Capital Construction at the end of session. Every policy bill that is sent to Ways and Means will be considered with the recognition of this limited revenue and if there will be “roll-up” costs for 2025-27 or are they one-time expenditures. Look for those bills to be considered in the Ways and Means Subcommittees ONLY when they have been approved by the Ways and Means Co-Chairs and Senate and House Leadership. As part of the 2025-27 costs, the average for PERS contributions is expected to go up from 18.6% to 19.7%, according to a Milliman projection at a PERS meeting on Feb. 2 nd . That is slightly better than the 1.7% increase estimated last fall when the cost to the 2025-27 budget was estimated at $13 billion additional employer contributions. The official rate will be announced Oct. 4 th . The agency budget process for 2025-27 is beginning. Look for presentations to agency Boards and Commissions soon. More quarterly revenue forecasts will be provided before the Governor presents her budget by Dec. 1 st . Personal income taxpayers can determine the amount of their kicker using a “What’s My Kicker?” calculator available on Revenue Online . To use the calculator, taxpayers will need to enter their name, Social Security Number, and filing status for 2022 and 2023. Taxpayers may also hand-calculate the amount of their credit by multiplying their 2022 tax liability before any credits—line 22 on the 2022 Form OR-40—by 44.28 percent. Your 2023 tax returns could be filed starting January 29. Here is a good video on property taxes in Oregon. Cities and counties rely on property taxes for the services they provide. It’s possible that there will be conversations on property tax reform in 2025. The Oregonian provides some insight into that future conversation. Climate By Claudia Keith and Team See the Climate Emergency section of this Legislative Report. There are overlaps with this Natural Resources Report. We encourage you to read both sections. Coastal Issues By Christine Moffitt/Peggy Lynch The League signed a letter in support of HB 4132 , Marine Reserves. The bill passed the House Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources and Water on Feb. 8 th and was sent to Ways and Means. Currently there is a fiscal request of just under $900 million for this biennium. The League adopted our position on Marine Reserves after doing our Coastal study in 2012. This bill recognizes the first ten years of this program, creates more specific requirements on its management and on-going public engagement. Those who were concerned about this program have, for the most part, joined us in celebrating its success. Dr. Sarah Klain will be the Oregon Marine Reserves Program’s new human dimensions project leader. The League provided comments on HB 4080-1 that would both address union labor IF offshore wind projects happen on our South Coast and create a robust public engagement process before any projects are approved. It is expected that the federal government may approve leasing parts of federal waters for offshore wind projects as early as this fall. A Dept. of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) letter provides more information. Dept. of State Lands (DSL) By Peggy Lynch The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is working with DSL to identify In Lieu lands (lands owed the State of Oregon on statehood that have not yet been allotted to Oregon). Click here to view the BLM Proposed Classification Decision , and a public notice that two forestland properties in Linn County that have been identified to meet the criteria for some of those In Lieu lands. Learn more and provide public comment through April 9, 2024. Drinking Water Advisory Committee By Sandra Bishop The Drinking Water Advisory Committee (DWAC) meeting was postponed to February 20 th . Agenda . Elliott State Research Forest (ESRF) By Peggy Lynch A Dept. of State Lands interim advisory group on the ESRF met on Jan. 18 and again on Feb. 7, Feb. meeting materials . Work is continuing on eventual adoption of a Habitat Conservation Plan and a Forest Management Plan for the forest. Visit DSL's Elliott webpage to learn more . The State Land Board will receive a report at their Feb. 13 th meeting . A recommendation with structural governance may be before the Land Board on April 9. If approved, look for appointments to the new ESRF Board at their June 11 th meeting. Forestry (ODF) The Oregon Dept. of Forestry is holding community conversations in February as they do strategic planning. The public is encouraged to participate. On Feb. 23 rd the Board of Forestry will have a special meeting on Post-Disturbance Harvest Rulemaking. Agenda . There are a number of bills this session around funding wildfire. For information on the various bills, see the Wildfire section of this report below. Land Use & Housing/Dept. of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) By Peggy Lynch The League has been engaged in discussions for months on the Governor’s land use/housing bill, SB 1537 . A -4 amendment has been filed that reflects many of the changes as a result of multiple work groups engaged in this important bill. This bill and others may see additional amendments and be worked in the Senate Committee on Housing and Development on Feb. 13. As part of the effort to provide infrastructure so housing can actually be built, the League supported HB 4134 with testimony . The bill that will have a Work Session on Feb. 13 th . The bill includes a list of infrastructure projects in small towns around Oregon to be funded with a promise of new housing, especially for middle income Oregonians. Follow the work of the Oregon Housing Needs Analysis (OHNA) Rulemaking Committee on the department’s Housing Rulemaking webpage . And watch their meetings on the department’s YouTube channel. The Department of Land Conservation and Development is recruiting committee members for rulemaking for Goal 9 and certain Economic Opportunities Analyses processes. Applications to serve on the Rulemaking Advisory Committee (RAC) must be submitted by midnight on February 13 th . See also the Housing Report in the Social Policy section of this Legislative Report. Reduce/Recycle By Camille Freitag The League weighed in again this year on a Right to Repair bill, SB 1596 . We also joined others in support of the bill. There will be another public hearing on Feb. 13 in the Senate Committee on Energy and Environment ONLY for those who had signed up last week and didn’t get to speak. Then a work session is also scheduled for that same day. There are a number of amendments listed on OLIS. We understand that the fiscal (cost) of administering the bill has been removed because the Dept. of Justice has an existing fund for enforcement that is adequately resourced to meet the need. Meeting materials for the fifth Recycling Modernization Act Rulemaking Advisory Committee have been posted on the Recycling 2024 website. The meeting will be held on Feb. 14 on Zoom. The next meetings are scheduled for March 14 th and April 3 rd . To attend please Register via Zoom . To learn more about this rulemaking and the advisory committee, view the rulemaking web page at: Recycling Updates 2024 . Water By Peggy Lynch The Oregon Water Resources Dept. is considering recommending changes to Oregon’s groundwater rules to the Water Resources Commission. This slide deck was presented at their last rules advisory committee meeting. A written public comment period will open from March 1 st through June 1 st . Regional meetings will be held April 4 th in Bend, April 18 in La Grande, May 16 in Central Point, and May 21 st in Salem, with the Salem meeting being available on the internet as well as in person. It is expected that the Oregon Water Resources Commission will consider and may adopt the new rules at their Sept. meeting. The League is watching this work closely as is LWV Deschutes County and looks forward to the Water Resources Commission's adoption of this first set of updated rules which can then lead to updated Critical Groundwater designations as the data determines is necessary. In the meantime, many Oregonians are experiencing dry household wells. Updates on the Lower Umatilla Groundwater Management Area (LUGWMA) and our fellow Oregonians who are suffering from dangerous nitrates in their domestic wells: OPB and the Oregon Capital Chronicle provided articles as we follow this serious public health issue. The Department of State Lands is creating a new statewide program (Abandoned and Derelict Vessels) to address hazardous vessels across Oregon. They want your feedback on the proposed program framework. Share your input by Friday, March 8th! See the proposed framework for the ADV program here (PDF). The League has supported the creation of this program and the funding needed to remove these hazardous vessels from Oregon’s waterways. OWRD anticipates releasing a draft of the updated Integrated Water Resources Strategy (IWRS) for public review and comment in March. An updated draft is then anticipated to be available for a second public comment opportunity in May. The Oregon Water Resources Commission will hear public testimony and consider the adoption of the 2024 IWRS at their September meeting. For more information about this process, please visit the IWRS page on their website. The League hopes members will engage since we were actively engaged in the original legislation and in the first two IWRS documents. As a result of that work, our state water agencies have been funded to a greater degree than ever before. Quagga mussels, a serious invasive species that can raise havoc with water infrastructure, were discovered on a boat coming into Oregon from Lake Mead. Oregon needs to consider funding to address this invasive problem as Idaho is doing. Look for this issue to be addressed in 2025. It is a current license program at the Oregon State Marine Board with transfer of funds to the Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife who use that money for an inspection program at Oregon’s borders that found those invasives. The League assisted in support of these programs. We all need to pay attention to the potential for harmful algal blooms. “When in doubt, stay out.” Visit the Harmful Algae Bloom website or call the Oregon Public Health Division toll-free information line at 877-290-6767 to learn if an advisory has been issued or lifted for a specific water body. League members may want to check the U. S. Drought Monitor , a map that is updated every Thursday. Governor Kotek has signed drought declarations under ORS 536 for the counties of Crook, Jefferson, Grant, Deschutes, Wasco, Harney, Sherman, Lake, Jackson, Gilliam, Douglas, Lincoln, and Morrow counties. Wildfire By Carolyn Mayers The short session is underway, and things in the wildfire arena are, pardon me for this, heating up! Leading up to the short session was a meeting of the Governor’s Wildfire Programs Advisory Council (WPAC) on Jan. 19. Doug Grafe, the Governor’s Wildfire Director, started things off with an overview of the bills the Council will be tracking and working on with legislators. Much time was spent on two upcoming bills from Senator Golden. The first, SB 1511 , would create a Neighborhood Protection Cooperatives Grant Program, administered through the Dept. of the State Fire Marshal. It would also direct the Dept. of Business and Consumer Services to work with insurance companies to explore the possibility of “rewarding” communities that participate in these standardized risk reduction programs with more favorable rates for homeowners’ insurance. The League testified in support of this bill at a public hearing on Feb. 8 before the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Wildfire. The second bill discussed at the WPAC meeting was Senator Golden’s funding bill, SB 1593 , which would repeal the current forest products harvest tax regime and impose a new version of the timber severance tax, which was repealed in the 1990s with devastating consequences for wildfire program funding. The new tax would apply to private lands with larger than 500 acres of timber and would provide funding to counties and to programs to protect homes, neighborhoods and water supplies from wildfire damage. This bill would be a referral to the voters. Two other funding bills were presented, and details of those can be found later in this report. There was also discussion of HB 4016 , which provides some technical fixes and tweaks to a prescribed fire liability program and establishes funds related to responding to wildfire smoke and home hardening. The League also monitored a public hearing on this bill on Feb. 5 before the House Committee on Climate, Energy and Environment. Closing out the WPAC meeting there was a presentation from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) on “The 20-Year Strategy – The Future of Landscape Resiliency in Oregon” and highlights of past and ongoing work to address fuels on the landscape, especially around communities. There appears to be a growing focus on the needed strengthening of the partnership and coordination between federal and state agencies with regard to our wildfire crisis. This is evidenced by these same organizations giving similar, expanded presentations to the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Wildfire on Feb. 6 th which was followed by the League. As previously mentioned, the League is following two other wildfire funding bills that have been introduced this session. The first, HB 4133 , chiefly sponsored by Reps. Marsh and Owens and Sens. Steiner and Findley, makes changes related to the forest products harvest tax, establishes a State Forestry Dept. Large Wildfire Fund, and makes changes related to forest protection districts. That bill’s original iteration had a $10 tax on each property in Oregon, but that provision has since been dropped. Finally, Rep. Paul Evans has introduced HJR 201 and HB 4075 . HB 4075 would set up a task force to develop a plan for the legislature to establish a statewide public safety funding authority in Oregon. The Authority would have taxing power of up to $0.25/$1,000 property tax value. The establishment of this body requires a constitutional amendment which would have to be referred to the voters in the next general election in Nov. 2024. HB 4075 only takes effect if HJR 201 is approved by the voters. This article outlines some of the pros and cons of each bill. Update: The League will be signing on to a budget request for additional monies to the State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Dept. of Forestry to address Community Wildfire Protection and Landscape Resiliency. Volunteers Needed What is your passion related to Natural Resources? You can help. Volunteers are needed. The long legislative session begins in January of 2025. Natural Resource Agency Boards and Commissions meet regularly year-round and need monitoring. If any area of natural resources is of interest to you, please contact Peggy Lynch, Natural Resources Coordinator, at peggylynchor@gmail.com . Training will be offered.

Back to All Legislative Reports Social Policy Legislative Report - Week of 3/3 Social Policy Team Coordinator: Jean Pierce • After School and Summer Care: Katie Riley • Behavioral Health: Trish Garner • Criminal Justice/Juvenile Justice: Marge Easley / Sharron Noon • Education: Jean Pierce / Stephanie Engle • Equal Rights for All Ballot Measure: Jean Pierce Kyra Aguon • Gender-Related Concerns, Reproductive Health, Age Discrimination: Trish Garner • Gun Safety & Gun Issues, Rights for Incarcerated People: Marge Easley • Hate and Bias Crimes: Claudia Keith/ Becky Gladstone /rhyen enger • Health Care: Christa Danielsen • Housing: Debbie Aiona and Nancy Donovan Note: Education reports after January, 2024, are included in Social policy reports. Education reports prior to February, 2024, can be found HERE . Please see the Legislation Tracker for 2025 Social Policy bills . Jump to topic: Behavioral Health Education Gun Policy Healthcare Housing Behavioral Health By Stephanie Aller HB 2596 (School Psychologist Interstate Licensure Compact) was passed by the House and had its first reading in the Senate on February 25. The bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Education. The League presented testimony supporting a related bill, HB 3351 , which lets licensed counselors from other states work in Oregon. The League of Women Voters of Oregon submitted testimony in support of HB 3129 , the Higher Education Behavioral Health Workforce Expansion Fund. The bill will help to address the behavioral health workforce crisis by funding students and investing in faculty and program resources. The House Committee on Higher Education and Workforce Development held a public hearing on HB 3129 on February 25. Rep. Nosse, a chief sponsor of the bill, testified that many behavioral health educational programs at public institutions are at full capacity. They do not have the funding to expand enrollment. Other institutions would like to start new programs to train behavioral health providers but also lack funding. SB 527 is scheduled for a public hearing on March 13 before the Senate Committee on Early Childhood and Behavioral Health. The bill directs the Oregon Health Authority to start a grant program to establish behavioral health workforce training programs for high school students. Education By Jean Pierce On February 26, the Education Committees of both chambers met together to hear a presentation from authors of the American Institute for Research (AIR) report analyzing School Funding in Oregon. AIR has found that funding would need to be increased by $5074 per student if Oregon were to reach the level of adequate performance to which it aspires. But it is up to the legislature to determine whether that is the level they are willing to fund. They also noted that increasing funding to achieve equity is only the first step. The next step would be to analyze how some districts are doing more with less, with an eye to providing guidance for how schools and districts should use the resources provided in order to achieve better outcomes.. Specifically addressing special education funding, the authors of the AIR report noted that there was an increase of 21.5% in funding per student between 2018 and 2023, and yet that was only an increase of 4.3% in inflation-adjusted figures. Over that same time period - there was a 27.6% increase in students with moderate or high-cost disabilities and a 7.2% decrease in low-cost disabilities in the state. The one-size-fits all Special Education weight that is part of the State School Fund does not accommodate this shift. Oregon is one of only eight states which use a single weight. AIR recommends that our state use a system more like that of 21 other states which group categories into tiers according to the cost of services needed. In addition, the research group recommends eliminating the State School Fund cap on special education funding. They noted that 88% of school districts have exceeded the cap, but the waiver which is available to those districts covered only 30% of the amount of funding which they received for students under the cap. Accordingly, they reported that districts with more high-need students are receiving less money than needed. Further, since public schools are required to accommodate these students’ needs, they must make cuts in other programs. LWVO R submitted t estimony for SB 1098 , which prohibits discrimination when selecting or retaining school library materials, textbooks or instructional materials or when developing and implementing a curriculum. The League submitted testimony for HB 3182 , which directs the Higher Education Coordinating Commission to award grants to nonprofit organizations that provide affordable housing support to low-income students in higher education. This bill is addressing a serious problem in Oregon. A 2023 survey of Portland Community College students revealed that 56% were experiencing housing insecurity LWVOR submitted testimony for HB 3183 , which would appropriate money tothe Higher Education Coordinating Commission for purposes of the Open Educational Resources Program. The funds would continue to provide no-cost, low-cost textbooks and course materials across Oregon’s colleges and universities. This is a significant problem, since a 2022 survey of students at Oregon State University revealed that 61% had not purchased textbooks due to the cost. Gun Policy By Marge Easley The League has signed on to the legislative agenda of the Alliance for a Safe Oregon , which includes the following gun policy bills: HB 3076 : institutes state licensing of firearm dealers SB 696 : places a statewide ban on rapid-fire devices, such as bump stocks HB 3075 : allocates resources for Measure 114 implementation SB 1015 and HB 5014 : funds community violence intervention programs SB 697 : raises the minimum age from 18 to 21 to purchase a semi-automatic rifle SB 429 : requires a 72-hour waiting period before the transfer of a firearm SB 203 : strengthens Oregon’s Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) law The Alliance will hold its Advocacy Day at the Capitol on March 4. A joint informational session of the House and Senate Judiciary Committees has been scheduled for the week of March 10, with hearings on several of the bills tentatively scheduled for March 17 and March 20. Links to League testimony on these bills will appear in upcoming Legislative Reports. Meanwhile, the Trump administration will have a significant impact on gun policy at the federal level, as was made clear by the issuance of the February 7th executive order on “Protecting Second Amendment Rights.” Newly named FBI Chief Kash Patel has also taken the reins of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and a bill has been introduced in the House to eliminate the entire agency. Health Care by Christa Danielson HB 2010 A : LWVOR presented testimony for this bill, which funds the state portion of the Oregon Health Plan. The bill continues the assessments on health insurance and hospitals that have been in place for the last five years. One half of all children and one fourth of the population of Oregon have the Oregon Health Plan as their health insurance. The bill passed the House with bi-partisan support, and is currently in the Senate Committee on Health. Housing By Nancy Donovan and Debbie Aiona Governor Kotek’s Statewide Shelter System Proposal On February 24, Governor Kotek testified before the House Committee on Housing and Homelessness to present her proposal for a statewide shelter system. HB 3644 would create the system, which would be administered by Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS). The bill appropriates $218 million to reduce unsheltered homelessness and transition people into stable housing. It codifies the structure established by the Governor’s statewide housing emergency declared at the beginning of her term in office. The proposal is the product of a Sustainable Shelter Work Group created by the Governor and Representative Pam Marsh. The bill calls for dividing the state into regions. Each region will have a regional coordinator responsible for planning, funding, and services. OHCS will enter into five- or six-year agreements with each region. They will be required to submit an annual report outlining progress on their regional plans. The proposal would move Oregon away from one-time emergency funding for shelters towards a stable outcomes-based system. At least 70 percent of the funds would go towards low-barrier shelters with the remainder available for recovery-based shelters. Programs will be open seven days a week, 24 hours a day. In order to accommodate regional differences, shelters eligible for the program include congregate and non-congregate shelters, safe temporary emergency sites that meet health and safety standards for vehicular camping, and basic freestanding structures that are sound, weatherproof, and have locking doors. Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Climate Emergency , Governance , and Natural Resources report sections.

Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 6/29 Climate Emergency Team Coordinator: Claudia Keith Coordinator: Claudia Keith Efficient and Resilient Buildings: vacant Energy Policy: Claudia Keith Environmental Justice: vacant Natural Climate Solution Forestry: Josie Koehne Agriculture: vacant Community Resilience & Emergency Management: see Governance LR: Rebecca Gladstone Transportation: see NR LR Joint Ways and Means - Budgets, Lawsuits, Green/Public Banking, Divestment/ESG: Claudia Keith Find additional Climate Change Advocacy volunteers in Natural Resources Please see Climate Emergency Overview here. Jump to a topic: June Interim Legislative Days Climate Executive Orders Clean Energy Greenhouse Gas Mitigations Natural and Working Lands Public Health Clean Buildings Transportation Oregon Climate Lawsuits Climate Migration and Environmental Justice 2027 Legislative session Data Centers The 2026 short legislative session (Feb. 2–Mar. 6) adjourned Sine Die having navigated a ~$750M budget shortfall driven by federal funding cuts from the Trump administration's One Big Beautiful Bill. Climate advocates in Oregon called it a 'defend and deliver' moment that ultimately 'left climate behind' — but state-level executive and regulatory action continued robustly through June. This report covers the 2026 session outcomes, June 2026 Legislative Days, Governor Kotek's executive orders, active litigation, and looks ahead to 2027. JUNE 2026 INTERIM LEGISLATIVE DAYS The Oregon Legislative Assembly held June 2026 Interim Legislative Days (June 16–18) in Salem. Interim committees heard informational presentations and agency reports on topics expected to shape the 2027 long session. Climate-relevant hearings included: Senate Interim Committee on Energy & Environment: Received the Department of Environmental Quality ( DEQ) update on the Climate Protection Program (CPP) rulemaking and the status of the April 2026 Oregon Business & Industry lawsuit. Also heard Oregon Department of Energy (ODOE) briefings on grid reliability impacts from rising data center demand. Oregon Climate Action Commission (OCAC): May 15 virtual meeting (preceding June Days) featured an expert panel on climate-related transportation issues; input on DEQ's new Environmental Justice mapping tool (per HB 4077); and presentation of the 2026 update to Oregon's consumption-based emissions inventory. The EJ mapping tool is designed to identify communities 'unrepresented in government processes and harmed by environmental and health hazards.' Joint Committee on Transportation: Reviewed ODOT's performance benchmarks and early concepts for the 2027 Transportation Package, emphasizing safety, climate impact, and infrastructure maintenance scoring aligned with 2026's SB 1542 (Measure What We Drive — did not pass). House Interim Committee on Climate, Energy & Environment: Received briefing on Governor Kotek's Data Center Advisory Committee recommendations timeline (due October 2026) and early findings on siting criteria. GOVERNOR KOTEK'S CLIMATE EXECUTIVE ORDERS Governor Kotek issued major climate executive orders in late 2025 that continue to drive agency work through the 2026 interim. Together they form Oregon's primary climate governance framework as federal protections erode. EO 25-26 — Natural & Working Lands (Oct. 23, 2025) Directs Oregon's 14 natural resource agencies to accelerate climate-resilient strategies on public and working lands. Key mandates: Protect or restore 10% more of Oregon's most climate-resilient lands and waters within 10 years (the '10 by 10' directive). Streamline programs to help farmers, foresters, and fishers adopt climate-friendly practices. State Resilience Officer to develop the Plan for a Resilient Oregon (PRO) addressing wildfire and flooding. Expand forest treatments and prescribed burns; improve air quality alerts during fire season. EO 25-29 — Clean Energy & Carbon Pollution Reduction (Nov. 19, 2025) Directs agencies to implement the Oregon Energy Strategy's five least-cost pathways — electrification, energy efficiency, clean electricity, low-carbon fuels, and resilience — with a focus on grid reliability and affordability. Agencies to streamline siting, permitting, and interconnection for clean energy projects. Explores public-private partnerships for enhanced geothermal, offshore wind, and energy storage. Mandates transparency through coordinated climate tracking and reporting. CLEAN ENERGY 2026 Session Results Bill Title Status Notes HB 4031 Accelerating Wind & Solar — renewable energy siting before federal tax credits expire PASSED Capture of critical federal IRA dollars while they remain available. Bipartisan. HB 4086 Industrial Symbiosis — circular manufacturing; one company's waste becomes another's input PASSED Reduces pollution; strengthens local manufacturing supply chains. SB 1582 Virtual/Distributed Power Plants — rooftop solar, batteries, smart thermostats as grid resources DID NOT PASS Would have expanded local energy assets; did not advance due to budget constraints. HB 4046 Nuclear Energy Study DID NOT PASS Opposed by 350PDX and others; failed to advance. Existing law keeps Oregon nuclear-free. HB 4080 Plug-In Solar DID NOT PASS Did not advance; expected to resurface in 2027. POWER Act (HB 3546, 2025): Signed into law Aug. 2025. Requires Oregon PUC to create a separate rate class for data centers and large energy users (>20 MW). In May 2026, PUC finalized rules for Portland General Electric — the first utility in Oregon to implement POWER Act rules. New data centers can only connect to PGE's grid when sufficient emissions-free power is available. PacifiCorp proceeding underway; decision expected November 2026. GREENHOUSE GAS MITIGATION (GHG) Climate Protection Program (CPP) Oregon's flagship cap-and-invest program — arising from EO 20-04 and restarted in 2025 after a 2023 Court of Appeals ruling on procedural flaws — is again under legal challenge . The program aims to reduce GHG emissions 50% by 2035 and 90% by 2050 (from 2017–19 baseline) by capping carbon from transportation fuels, natural gas, and propane and requiring compliance instruments. Status: A coalition of 28+ groups — led by Oregon Business & Industry (OBI), NW Natural, Oregon Farm Bureau, Oregon Forest Industries Council, and labor unions — filed a petition for review on April 16, 2026 in the Oregon Court of Appeals. They argue the program 'oversteps the Environmental Quality Commission's limited authority under Oregon law'. Environmental and community groups moved to intervene in defense of the CPP. Oregon Environmental Council, Climate Solutions, Verde, and Oregon Just Transition Alliance publicly opposed the suit, noting that over 10,000 Oregonians participated in the public rulemaking and that one-third of Oregon counties are already under state drought emergencies. Oregon is two years behind its own GHG schedule . If the CPP is invalidated, the state would have no operational mechanism to meet its statutory goals. Ruling timeline: unknown; both sides have requested expedited proceedings. Make Polluters Pay / Climate Resilience Superfund (SB 1541) This bill would have required out-of-state oil and gas corporations to pay into a fund compensating Oregon for climate damage. It achieved a historic milestone — passing out of committee for the first time ever — but died in the Joint Ways & Means Committee due to budget politics. Two states (New York, Vermont) have passed similar legislation. Expect a stronger 2027 push from the Make Polluters Pay coalition. NATURAL & WORKING LANDS EO 25-26 (see above) sets the overarching framework. Key agency actions underway: Oregon Department of Land Conservation & Development (DLCD) released the 2026 Land Use Legislation Report and is finalizing rules implementing the Climate-Friendly and Equitable Communities (CFEC) standards — transportation and land-use rules that allow communities to reduce car dependence and GHG emissions. 1.25% for Wildlife (HB 4134) — SIGNED: Increases the transient lodging tax by 1.25%, generating ~$38M/year for non-game species conservation. $27.4M/year supports ODFW's State Wildlife Action Plan and Oregon Nearshore Strategy. Called a 'historic win for conservation.' Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB): Full 2025–2027 budget protected in the HB 5204 rebalance, including Oregon Aquatic Habitat Program grant funds. Department of Forestry also protected, preserving the Private Forest Accord Adaptive Management Program. SB 1545 (Corner Crossings) — SIGNED: Protects members of the public accessing public lands via corner crossings from trespass claims, while protecting landowners. Wildfire: HB 4077 (wildfire/climate adaptation) — SIGNED. Governor's Plan for a Resilient Oregon (PRO) framework is now in development under the State Resilience Officer. Oregon counties already facing highest-risk wildfire season; drought affects one-third of Oregon counties. PUBLIC HEALTH Climate change has direct, documented health consequences for Oregonians. Multiple state actions address heat, air quality, and community resilience: Oregon Health Authority (OHA): Continued implementation of climate-health programs tracking heat-related illness, wildfire smoke exposure, and heat island effects in urban low-income neighborhoods. OHA received updates at June Legislative Days on OHA-climate program integration. Heat & Workers: Oregon OSHA heat protection standards — directed by EO 20-04 — remain in effect, protecting outdoor and agricultural workers during extreme heat events. Environmental Justice Council: Developing a statewide EJ mapping tool (per HB 4077) to identify communities harmed by environmental and health hazards, for use by state agencies in prioritizing programs. Previewed at the May 15 OCAC meeting. Air Quality & Wildfire Smoke: EO 25-26 directs improved air quality alert systems during fire season. Oregon consistently faces weeks of hazardous air quality from wildfires. Smoke disproportionately harms outdoor workers, children, elderly, and people with lung disease. Housing & Climate Resilience: Interim committees heard a presentation on Housing Stabilization: Climate and Health Resilience in Housing, addressing manufactured housing’s vulnerability to floods, heat, and wildfire — an environmental justice priority area. CLEAN BUILDINGS Upgrade & Save (proposed financing tool for 2026, did not advance): Would have allowed households and small businesses to finance energy efficiency upgrades and electrification with no upfront cost, repaid through utility bills. Widely supported; died in budget crunch. A top priority for the 2027 session. Oregon's State Energy Strategy (released 2025) identifies building electrification as one of five least-cost pathways. EO 25-29 directs agencies to implement these pathways, including reducing building emissions through codes, incentives, and financing tools. Oregon Building Codes Division is expected to present updated energy code proposals during fall 2026 interim Legislative Days, with potential 2027 legislation to set appliance and building efficiency standards that go beyond federal baselines (which have been rolled back by the Trump administration). Community Energy Project and Columbia Riverkeeper, representing low-income communities, advocated at the PUC for a data center surcharge funding energy efficiency upgrades for low-income households — secured in the PGE POWER Act rulemaking. TRANSPORTATION Oregon is already two years behind its GHG schedule , and the transportation sector is Oregon's largest source of emissions. The 2026 session fell short on transportation climate action: Bill Title Status Notes SB 1542 Measure What We Drive — transportation project scoring system (safety, climate, maintenance, cost) DID NOT PASS Strong climate coalition support; died in budget crunch. High priority for 2027. HB 4125 Kicker Reform — directs excess funds toward wildfire, state emergencies, capital projects PASSED Modest budget tool; helps backstop climate emergency costs. HB 4032 Fuel Storage Diversification — ODOE to identify emergency fuel reserve sites PASSED ODOE required to report 2027 prioritized fuel storage site list to Legislature. HB 4100 Risk Bonds / Financial Assurance for bulk fuel terminals DID NOT PASS Would require terminals to show financial responsibility for spill response. HB 4125 FORGE Act (transportation revenue options) DID NOT PASS Would have addressed ODOT funding gap; did not advance. Major 2027 issue. ODOT is facing a major structural funding crisis — with the FORGE Act and transportation revenue options stalled. The Joint Committee on Transportation is beginning to lay groundwork for a comprehensive 2027 Transportation Package. Climate Solutions and OEC are advocating that any package include climate performance metrics and transit investment, not just road maintenance. Climate-Friendly and Equitable Communities (CFEC) rules: DLCD has finalized rules requiring larger Oregon cities to allow more housing near transit and reduce minimum parking requirements, reducing vehicle miles traveled over time. STATUS OF ACTIVE OREGON CLIMATE LAWSUITS Case Forum Status Summary OBI et al. v. DEQ / Climate Protection Program Oregon Court of Appeals 🔴 ACTIVE / PENDING Filed April 16, 2026. 28+ plaintiffs (OBI, NW Natural, OR Farm Bureau, labor groups) argue CPP exceeds EQC authority and imposes unconstitutional economic burden. Conservation groups moving to intervene. Both sides seek expedited review. This is the highest-stakes active climate case in Oregon. Juliana v. United States (Oregon connection) 9th Circuit / U.S. District Court (Oregon) 🟡 ON REMAND Youth climate plaintiffs; constitutional right-to-a-stable-climate claim. Case continues on remand. Oregon-based youth plaintiffs; watched nationally as potential precedent-setter. OR LCDC / CFEC Rules Challenges LUBA / Oregon Courts 🟡 MONITORING Challenges to the Climate-Friendly & Equitable Communities rules at the Land Use Board of Appeals. Some local governments have contested implementation timelines and parking reduction requirements. CLIMATE MIGRATION & ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE Oregon is increasingly a climate destination state — receiving internal climate migrants from drought-stricken California, wildfire-ravaged Southwest communities, and coastal areas facing sea-level rise. At the same time, Oregon's own communities face climate-driven displacement from wildfire, flooding, and extreme heat. Climate Migration DLCD is examining how Oregon's land use planning system accommodates in-migration from other climate-stressed regions — a topic expected to receive formal interim committee attention in fall 2026 and potential 2027 legislation. Rural Oregon communities in eastern and southern Oregon face out-migration pressure as drought and heat reduce agricultural viability. OEC's Water and Rural Partnerships program is tracking these dynamics alongside EO 25-26 implementation. Oregon's Cascadia Subduction Zone risk intersects with climate resilience planning — a climate-displacement event from earthquake-triggered flooding or wildfire could displace hundreds of thousands. The State Resilience Officer is charged with developing the Plan for a Resilient Oregon (PRO). FEMA risk mapping updates and the end of federal NFIP flood insurance subsidies are creating affordability crises for coastal Oregon homeowners — a slow-burn climate migration driver. Environmental Justice (EJ) Oregon Just Transition Alliance (OJTA), Verde, and PCUN are tracking federal rollbacks of environmental justice programs under the Trump administration — including the dismantling of EPA EJ offices — and calling for stronger Oregon state EJ protections. The Oregon Environmental Justice Council is developing a statewide EJ mapping tool (per HB 4077) to identify communities disproportionately burdened by environmental harms. Tool was previewed at the May 15 OCAC meeting; finalization expected 2026–27. The CPP's Community Climate Investments — community-based grants flowing from large polluters' compliance costs — are a key environmental justice mechanism at risk if the current OBI lawsuit succeeds. SNAP/Food Security: OEC tracked the federal 'One Big Beautiful Bill's' Medicaid and SNAP cuts as climate justice issues — food insecurity and health care access are direct climate vulnerability amplifiers for low-income Oregonians. Immigrant communities: EO 25-26 and state climate programs are being explicitly connected to immigrant farmworker vulnerability — extreme heat, wildfire smoke, and pesticide exposure — by coalition partners including PCUN. LOOKING AHEAD: 2027 LEGISLATIVE SESSION (LONG SESSION) The 2027 long session (up to 160 days) is Oregon's primary opportunity to advance major climate legislation. Based on interim activity, advocacy positions, and Governor Kotek's executive order framework, here are the priority climate bills likely to be in the works: High-Priority Climate Bills Expected in 2027 Make Polluters Pay / Climate Resilience Superfund (SB 1541 relaunch): Strongest momentum in years; national movement growing. Expect a better-funded coalition and stronger legislative strategy. Upgrade & Save (Energy Efficiency Financing): Broad support; died only due to 2026 budget crisis. Expected to be a top priority as federal IRA incentives continue to be clawed back. Measure What We Drive (transportation scoring): Held over from 2026. Likely to be part of a comprehensive Transportation Package. Clean Buildings / Appliance Efficiency Standards: To replace rolled-back federal standards; agencies developing proposals for 2027 introduction. Data Center Siting & Water Rules: The Governor's Data Center Advisory Committee reports to Kotek by October 2026. Recommendations are expected to become legislation in 2027 covering siting criteria, water use limits, and greenhouse gas requirements for new facilities. Grid Modernization & Transmission: EO 25-29 directs agencies to bring 2027 proposals for grid expansion, interconnection reform, and expanded storage capacity. Transportation Package (FORGE Act successor): Full biennial transportation investment package with climate performance requirements. Urgently needed given ODOT's structural funding crisis. Distributed Power Plants / Virtual Power Plant Act: SB 1582 relaunch — policy framework for community energy resources. Environmental Justice Act: Possible codification of the EJ mapping tool and agency EJ obligations into statute, strengthening what EO and HB 4077 began. Natural and Working Lands Funding: Potential bonding measure or dedicated fund to implement EO 25-26's '10 by 10' conservation goal. ⚠️ Budget warning: Ways & Means co-chairs have already signaled that the 2027–29 and 2029–31 biennia will face even larger structural deficits due to federal funding losses and Oregon's tax kicker mechanism. Climate bills requiring new appropriations face a difficult fiscal environment. SPECIAL FOCUS: DATA CENTERS & OREGON'S ENERGY FUTURE Governor Kotek's Data Center Advisory Committee (established January 20, 2026) is one of the most consequential climate-energy policy developments of the Oregon interim. Oregon is ranked in the top five states nationally for data centers — including Amazon's second-largest data center hub in the world in Hillsboro. Data centers now represent one of the primary drivers of Oregon's rapidly rising electricity rates, with PGE bills up nearly 50% over five years, and grid reliability under increasing stress from AI-driven demand growth. Committee Structure: Co-chaired by Margaret Hoffmann (Northwest Power and Conservation Council; former energy adviser to Governors Kitzhaber and Brown) and Michael Jung (ICF Climate Center). Members include Umatilla County Commissioner Dan Dorran — whose county has experienced 554% demand growth at Umatilla Electric Cooperative from Amazon data centers — and energy law expert Greg Dotson (University of Oregon). The committee holds at least one public meeting per month through October 2026, with policy recommendations due to the Governor by October 2026. POWER Act Implementation (May 2026 Milestone): The Oregon PUC issued a landmark order in May 2026 requiring Portland General Electric to create a new rate class for data centers (and cryptocurrency miners) using more than 20 MW — ensuring these facilities pay the full cost of grid infrastructure they require, rather than spreading costs across all ratepayers. Key provisions include: Data centers pay their own infrastructure and capacity costs — ending cross-subsidization by households and small businesses. New data centers can only connect to PGE's grid when sufficient emissions-free electricity is available — directly linking data center growth to Oregon's 100% clean electricity goal (2040). 10- to 30-year contract terms (based on facility size) and deposit requirements for new connections. A modest surcharge on data centers over 100 MW funds energy efficiency upgrades for low-income households. PacifiCorp (Pacific Power) rulemaking under POWER Act proceeding at PUC now; decision expected November 2026. Water & Environmental Justice Concerns: Data centers are also major water users for cooling. Verde and other environmental justice groups presented 'Water Justice Principles' to the Advisory Committee in March 2026, warning that data center water withdrawals in eastern Oregon — already under drought stress — threaten rural communities and Indigenous water rights. The Advisory Committee is expected to address water siting criteria in its October recommendations. Recent Data Center News Land-use advocates sue over data center tax breaks in Washington County - Oregonlive.com 2027 Legislation Likely: Climate Solutions and OEC have stated publicly that translating the Advisory Committee's recommendations into law is 'a big focus in the 2027 legislative session.' Likely elements include: statutory siting criteria for data centers near vulnerable farmland, wetlands, or aquifers; mandatory community benefits agreements for large facilities; GHG and clean energy requirements as a condition of state permitting; and water use reporting and limits. Oregon's POWER Act is already being cited as a national model — at least 18 other states have introduced similar legislation in 2026. "In the preparation of this report, AI was used to summarize and synthesize background data. The final analysis, interpretations, and conclusions were reviewed, verified, and edited by the author to ensure accuracy and alignment with our organizational standards." VOLUNTEERS NEEDED : What is your passion related to Climate Emergency ? You can help. V olunteers are needed. The short legislative session begins in January of 2026. Many State Agency Boards and Commissions meet regularly year-round and need monitoring. If any area of climate or natural resources is of interest to you, please contact Peggy Lynch, Natural Resources Coordinator, or Claudia Keith Climate Emergency at peggylynchor@gmail.com Or climatepolicy@lwvor.org . Training will be offered. Clean Energy Buildings Natural and Working lands, specifically Agriculture Transportation and ODOT state agency Climate Related Lawsuits/Our Children’s TrustDA Public Health Climate Adaptation (OHA) Regional Solutions / Infrastructure (with NR team) State Procurement Practices (DAS: Dept. of Admin. Services) CE Portfolio State Agency and Commission Budgets Oregon Treasury: ESG investing/Fossil Fuel divestment Environmental Justice Climate Migration Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Governance , Revenue , Natural Resources , and Social Policy report section

Back to Legislative Report Revenue Legislative Report - Week of 2/23 Revenue Team Coordinator: Peggy Lynch REVENUE Patricia Garner, Josie Koehne, Peggy Lynch We understand that we are $650 million in the hole related to revenue needs vs. expenses. But this number doesn’t reflect all the legislation being considered this session. According to Rep. Owens, “ Budget rebalancing discussions will begin next week,…” That was this last week! We are beginning to see bills that were sent to Ways and Means because they had costs (fiscals) being assigned to Ways and Means Subcommittees. By next week we should see more bills being assigned to those Subcommittees if they might be fully or partially funded. A reminder: These Subcommittees have the ability to change policy in the bills sent to them as well as determine what and how much to fund them. SB 1507 A that “disconnects” a few sections of the federal tax code from our state tax system could provide another $311 million of revenue to reduce that $650 million deficit. The Legislative Revenue Office provided this chart to help explain the revenue impact. Here is the Staff Measure Summary, the Fiscal Impact Statement and the Revenue Impact Statement . The measure provides for an increase in the Earned Income Tax Credit that the League has long supported. Our partners at the Oregon Center for Public Policy (OCPP) have provided a video that might help explain this complicated tax policy. The Oregonian provides another explanation of the committee’s work. The League provided testimony in support of the amended bill. There was a Minority Report filed ( Staff Report ) and that report’s Revenue and Fiscal Impact Statements are available in the bill’s meeting materials. After an attempt to substitute the Minority Report, the Senate passed SB 1507 A 17-13 on Feb. 16, and it went to the House Revenue Committee. Public Hearing Feb. 18. Work Session Feb. 19. A number of amendments were posted but, after learning of the effect of the amendments, none were adopted and the bill passed the committee (4/2/1) and is headed to the House floor where another Minority Report may be considered. HB 4014 : Requires the Legislative Revenue Officer to study the state financial system. Public Hearings held Feb. 2 and 11. Work Session Feb. 20 -2 amendment replaces the bill. Staff Measure Summary . The bill passed the committee and was sent to Ways and Means . SB 1510 : Updates the terminology used to describe certain income earned by multinational corporations to reflect a change in the term used in federal law . This omnibus bill, with amendments, would provide an opportunity to explore additional tax policy for consideration in the 2027 session. It is likely easier to understand the many provisions of SB 1510 by reviewing the summary provided by the Legislative Revenue Office of the bill and its -4 amendments . Public Hearing Feb. 11. Although the League was disappointed that this policy was not included in SB 1507 A, we can support a continued conversation around corporate tax policy. On Feb. 16, the Committee adopted the -4 amendments and passed the bill out of committee unanimously. SB 1511 : Modification of the estate tax. A -3 amendment was posted for a Feb. 18 Work Session and was passed with a “do pass” recommendation (3/2). The Committee also considered a -4 amendment which was proposed by Senator Mike McLane. It was rejected on a party line vote. SB 1511 -4 sought to raise the current $1 million estate tax exemption to $1.5 million, while retaining the newly proposed $2.5 million threshold. It also called for an annual adjustment to account for inflation. The staff has provided this analysis on the -3s that indicates no expected revenue loss for this biennium but $35 million by 2029-31. Public Hearing Feb. 11. OCPP provides an analysis of this tax. The bill relates to revisions in Oregon’s estate tax computational system. Chris Allanach from the LRO testified that the revisions are easier to understand if they are divided into three groups: estates valued under $2.5 million will result in zero tax; estates over $3 million will incur tax using tables similar to those today but with higher rates, which are designed to make the policy revenue neutral. The third category includes estates between $2.5 and $3 million. The rates were increased to minimize the impact of the new policy, and the $2.5 million threshold is indexed to inflation. Estates valued below $2.89 million will pay less in tax than in previous years and those over that amount will be paying more, with an average tax increase of approximately 2.7%. Estimated net revenue impacts in fiscal year 2025-27 are considered minimal; for 2027-29 the net loss is $3.2 million and for 2029-32, $35.4 million. Processing fewer returns is likely to reduce operational costs but how much is unknown. Tax Fairness Oregon supports the bill on the grounds that the changes would improve the equity and efficiency of the estate tax system. Small business representatives, including from OBI, opposed the - 3 amendment on the grounds that Oregon should instead eliminate estate taxes just as most states have and the plan to increase taxes is not wise as it would continue to disincentivize growth and investment in Oregon. Courtney Graham, SEIU Local 503’s Political Director, supports raising tax rates on the largest estates in Oregon, is neutral on raising the tax threshold to $2.5 million and opposed the indexing of the estate tax threshold. She proposed including a cap for that index. Work Session Feb. 18. -4 amendment considered. -3 amendment was adopted and the bill goes to the Senate Floor by a 3/2 vote. SB 1549 seeks to increase the maximum allowable political tax credits from $50 for a single taxpayer and $100 for joint taxpayers to $1,000 for a single taxpayer and $2,000 joint taxpayers. The bill’s Chief Sponsor is Senator Robinson who also testified at the Public Hearing on Feb. 11. A Work Session has not been scheduled for SB 1549. SB 1586 : the tax credit allowed for semiconductor research. Creates and amends certain programs offering tax breaks related to advanced manufacturing, enterprise zones and regionally significant industrial sites. See more on this omnibus bill in the Land Use section of the Natural Resources Report. Oregonlive provided this comprehensive assessment of the bill. This Oregonlive article indicates that the bill’s chief sponsor is listening to concerns: “ The enterprise zone part is being removed from the bill .” But there’s still a chance that the tax breaks will expand this session. Gov. Tina Kotek has similar language in an economic development bill she is promoting . Public Hearing Feb. 16. The League provided testimony in opposition to this bill. A -4 amendment was provided by Sen. Sollman and she testified on the bill. Another Public Hearing set for Feb. 18 where a -5 amendment was mentioned (but not posted) and many “analysis” documents were posted, including one from the Legislative Revenue Office on R&D Tax Credits. Another Public Hearing Feb. 23. We may see additional amendments. See the meeting materials posted in the Analysis section of the bill’s Overview for more information. OPB provided an article on this contentious bill. SB 1562 : Allows city and county services for which net local transient lodging tax revenue may be used to be provided either directly by the city or county or indirectly by a special district. With the movement of HB 4148, this bill is likely dead. HB 4148 : Allows city and county services for which net local transient lodging tax revenue may be used to be provided either directly by the city or county or indirectly by a special district. Changes the division of allowable uses of net local transient lodging tax revenue. Allows units of local government with restricted grandfathered local transient lodging tax regimes to take advantage of the new provisions of the Act. Establishes biennial reporting by local governments of amounts and uses of local transient lodging tax revenue. Public hearing Feb. 9. Work Session Feb. 19. -7 amendment adopted that changes the percentage to 50/50 and passed the committee to the House floor. HB 4125 : Prescribes methodology for the preparation of revenue estimates used in the budgeting process and as applicable to the surplus revenue refund process. Applies to estimates prepared on or after January 1, 2027. Requires the Department of Revenue to estimate the difference in surplus revenue calculations using stated methodologies, and transfer an amount equal to the difference for use for various purposes. Establishes the One-Time Emergencies and Finance Fund. Public hearing Feb. 2. HB 4136 : Disallows, for purposes of personal income taxation, a mortgage interest deduction for a residence other than the taxpayer’s principal residence, unless the taxpayer sells the residence or actively markets the residence for sale. Establishes the Oregon Homeownership Opportunity Account. Transfers an amount equal to the estimated increase in revenue attributable to restrictions on the deduction of mortgage interest to the account, for the purpose of making down payment assistance payments. Applies to tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2026. Public Hearing Feb. 16. SJR 201 : Kicker Reform: Proposes an amendment to the Oregon Constitution to require a portion of surplus revenue that would otherwise be returned to personal income taxpayers to be used for funding public kindergarten through grade 12 education, community colleges and wildfire prevention and suppression, if surplus revenue exceeds a certain threshold. Refers the proposed amendment to the people for their approval or rejection at the next regular general election. OPB covered a story about the bill . Public Hearing Feb. 18. At the present time the kicker is triggered when actual state tax revenues are 2% or greater than what had been forecast; if that amount is exceeded, that amount goes back to taxpayers. SJR 201 proposes that the kicker will “kick” only if the excess revenue is greater than $300 million for any biennium, in which case 50% would go back to the taxpayers and the remaining 50% would be split between K-12 and community college funding and wildfire prevention and suppression. The threshold amount would be adjusted for inflation at the end of each biennium. SJR 201 -1 amendment has also been filed. It refines the educational portion to include K – 12, for higher education purposes and community colleges. Senator Prozanski testified that since the kicker became effective, out of 23 biennia, the kicker has “kicked” only 8 times. He also stated that the legislature cannot on its own change the kicker as it was placed in the Constitution by the voters after referral by the legislature. A Work Session has not been scheduled. The League has long supported kicker reform but we also note that, with our new state economist, another kicker is not expected in the near term. There continue to be questions around the health of the economy. That’s SO important in an income tax state like Oregon. OPB provided this article on lack of job openings. The Oregon Capital Chronicle Jobs Report article also noted this concern. The federal government announced the last quarter growth was down to 1.4% and inflation moved up to 2.9%. Are the Education Stability Fund and Rainy-Day Fund in play to help reduce the budget cuts? Conversations are happening, but there are special processes/votes needed to access these funds. With the gap between revenue and expenses having been reduced, it is unlikely these funds will be accessed for now. On Feb. 20, the US Supreme Court declared that President Trump does not have authority to impose widespread tariffs under a specific federal statute. Oregon’s Attorney General, Dan Rayfield, led the coalition of states arguing that the President did not have this authority. However, the President then ordered 10% global tariffs—tariffs that can only last for 150 days. Canada and Mexico will be exempted from these new tariffs. However, the ruling offers no relief for the American tariffs harming key Canadian manufacturing sectors — auto, steel and aluminum — as well as the Canadian lumber industry. It is time for Congress to retake control over taxation—which is what tariffs really are. We don’t know yet what effect this SCOTUS decision will have on Oregon’s revenue. The Full Ways and Means Committee met Feb. 6 th and introduced 6 budget bills for the session. Here are the bill numbers. Expect amendments by the end of session: SB 1601 : Amends an incorrect internal reference in a law relating judicial compensation. Program Change. SB 5701 : Modifies previously approved lottery bonding provisions. (Includes monies for the Port of Coos Bay) Bond Authority. Public Hearing Feb. 13 where the Housing Alliance requested funds for preserving existing housing that will no longer be regulated as “affordable”. SB 5702 : Establishes and modifies limits on payment of expenses from specified funds by certain state agencies for capital construction. Capital Construction 6-year limitation. Public Hearing Feb. 13 where the committee heard 3.5 hours of 2-minute requests from across the state—from infrastructure to housing to resilience hubs to a variety of economic development projects. Legislators were allowed only two requests each but even that meant up to 180 requests! SB 5703 : Establishes biennial appropriations and expenditure limitations for ______ for the biennium ending June 30, 2027. Placeholder for agency allocation changes. HB 5203 : Approves certain new or increased fees adopted by state agencies. The bill includes the Dept. of State Lands Wetlands processing fees set forth during rulemaking for which the League engaged. Fee Ratification. HB 5201 : Establishes biennial appropriations and expenditure limitations for ______ for the biennium ending June 30, 2027. Placeholder. HB 5202 : Establishes biennial appropriations and expenditure limitations for ______ for the biennium ending June 30, 2027. Placeholder. HB 5204 : Modifies certain biennial appropriations made from the General Fund to specified state agencies and the Emergency Board. Establishes and modifies limitations on expenditures for certain biennial expenses for specified state agencies. The items populated in this bill as introduced reflect tentative decisions made by Ways and Means during the January Legislative Days. Omnibus Budget. Here is the material from the Oregon State Debt Policy Advisory Commission . Tentatively the General Obligation bond capacity for the 2026 session is $513 million and $86 million lottery bond capacity. Revenue Committees and Ways and Means don’t need to follow the session deadlines. They work until close to the end of session. See other sections of the Legislative Report about the cuts in each area and what’s being considered to address the revenue shortfall. See other sections of the Legislative Report about the cuts in each area and what’s being considered to address the revenue shortfall.

Back to Legislative Report Education Legislative Report - Week of 1/30 By Anne Nesse Senate Education Committee heard two bills of significance this week. The first was about the use of Corporate Tax Kicker (not personal income tax kicker), and the second was about virtual and brick and mortar public charter schools. SB521 , public hearing was held on 1/31,“For purposes of implementing Article IX, section 14 (3), of the Oregon Constitution, if revenues received by the General Fund from the corporate income and excise taxes during the biennium exceed the amount estimated to be received from such taxes for the biennium by two percent or more, the Legislative Assembly shall appropriate an amount equal to the total amount of the excess [to the State School Fund established by ORS 327.008 for apportionment as provided in ORS 327.008] to provide additional funding for kindergarten through grade 12 public education.” And as Sen. Dembrow explains this change in law, would allow us to use these funds for many one time expenditures: like better ventilation systems, air conditioning, other long overdue infrastructure repairs, summer learning programs, or inservice education of our K-12 instructors. SB767 , public hearing was held on 2/2, l imit ing “the scope by which public charter schools may conduct operations in a school district that is not a sponsor of the public charter school”. This Bill presented a complex picture of public charter schools that are near small school districts, or near boundaries of a specific school district. The Bill, as was stated, requires more discussion and amendments. It was apparent from the testimony, that we are approaching a time when “equity in public education” is competing with “school choice in public education”? We are facing a major discussion among parents, for the rights of their individual child, how we include special needs children, and how to solve that problem within the public school model? At least two testifiers expressed their anger at the current public school system in Oregon: including students using drugs within the school population, student violence within the school population, and teachers being sometimes overworked with large class sizes in addition to low pay and lack of monetary support in general. House Education Committee heard one significant public hearing on pay increases HB2690 , “requiring school districts to pay certified educator salary of not less than $60,000 per year or, if certified educator provides education to students with individualized education program or who are enrolled in special education, not less than $63,000 per year”. Kendall Mason from OEA gave a thorough presentation on how low educational pay in general is throughout Oregon, being the 31st in the nation. And the fact that 60% of state funds for education now rely on the much more volatile income tax, and property taxes. Business managers from school districts testified that this Bill presents monetary challenges, and could easily lead to elimination of many staff positions, defeating the purpose of the Bill. It was pointed out in the hearing that the Governor’s current budget could not fund this Bill, leading to an increased ask of up to 9.9 Billion dollars. House Committee on Early Childhood Education dealt primarily with human services legislation this week.

Back to All Legislative Reports Natural Resources Legislative Report - Interim Week 6/10 Natural Resources Team Coordinator: Peggy Lynch Coastal Issues: Christine Moffitt, Peggy Lynch Columbia River Treaty: Philip Thor Dept. of Geology and Mineral Industries: Joan Fryxell Emergency Management: Rebecca Gladstone Forestry: Josie Koehne Elliott State Research Forest: Peggy Lynch Northwest Energy Coalition: Robin Tokmakian Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife: Melanie Moon Oregon Health Authority Drinking Water Advisory Committee: Sandra Bishop Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board: Water: Peggy Lynch Wildfire: Carolyn Mayers Ways and Means Natural Resource Budgets/Revenue: Peggy Lynch Jump to a topic: Agriculture Budgets/Revenue Budgets 2025 Climate Coastal Issues Dept. of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Dept. of State Lands (DSL) Drinking Water Advisory Committee (DWAC) Elliott State Research Forest Forestry Hanford Land Use and Housing Natural Resource Agencies Northwest Energy Coalition Reduce/Recycle Transportation Water Wildfire Volunteers Needed Agriculture A League member met with the new Oregon Dept. of Agriculture Director Hanson and others to discuss work on their strategic plan and 2025 budget development as well as providing an update on the Eastern Oregon groundwater issue (Lower Umatilla Basin Groundwater Management Area—LUBGMA) where the League expressed frustration at the lack of very real action to address the needs of Oregonians who are still dealing with contaminated drinking water. Budgets/Revenue By Peggy Lynch A Revenue Forecast was presented to the House and Senate Revenue Committees on May 29. The bottom line: Revenue was up BUT........we now temporarily have a $582 million personal kicker forecasted for 2026 because the new forecasted revenue is 2.5% over the May 2023 forecast. However, there are a number of forecasts before this becomes reality. The forecasters are saying interest rates won't drop until December so we are still in a "will we have a soft landing or a recession?" situation. While leadership will want to provide as many services as possible, the minority will be focusing on the potential negative and want to reduce spending. For the natural resource agencies, many need fee increases in order to try to maintain current services...and those may be difficult to get approved in 2025. Budgets 2025 By Peggy Lynch The Governor had asked agencies to present her with agency budget proposals by April 30. Since revenue may only cover the Current Service Levels (amount of money needed to fund current programs while also addressing expected increases in costs–CSL) of state agencies plus 1-2%, agencies are now discussing with the Governor’s office on why a particular program should exceed that amount. We should see Agency Request Budgets (ARBs) in July or August. The Governor’s Recommended Budget (GRB) is due to the legislature by Dec. 1st. The State Debt Policy Advisory Commission will provide bonding guidance in January of 2025. Among the challenges, the Private Forest Accord cost is $36 million General Funds and was not in the CSL. 49% of the Oregon Dept. of Energy’s 2023-24 budget was one-time money. The League is engaged in potential fee increases at the Water Resources Dept., the Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife and others. Expect a separate budget package for housing that will include monies in a number of different budgets to implement the Governor’s requests. Here is a good video on property taxes in Oregon. Cities and counties rely on property taxes for the services they provide. It’s possible that there will be conversations on property tax reform in 2025. The Oregonian provides some insight into that future conversation. Climate By Claudia Keith and Team See the Climate Emergency section of this Legislative Report . There are overlaps with this Natural Resources Report. We encourage you to read both sections. Coastal Issues By Christine Moffitt/Peggy Lynch The issue of offshore wind energy is dominating conversations at the coast. Here is an Oregonian article and an OPB article to help explain the issue. The League supports the concept of renewable energy but also supports our coastal estuaries. We hope that ongoing discussions will help guide decisions on whether or not offshore wind energy is right for Oregon’s south coast. Here is the Dept. of Land Conservation and Development’s Coastal Division offshore wind website . A new group, the Oregon Ocean Alliance, has been formed to advocate for ocean funding in multiple agencies in 2025. See the website for Oregon’s marine reserves. The League signed a letter in support of HB 4132 which passed and provides money for these special places. June 8 was World Oceans Day . Dept. of Environmental Quality (DEQ) By Peggy Lynch An article covering the Secretary of State audit notes that, in order for the agency to accomplish its mission for Oregonians, DEQ needs staff. The League’s budget letters every session reflect that need. However, the revenue forecast may hamper important investments. DEQ’s biennial report summarizing surface water pollution across the state will include a recognition of the impact of trash on water quality per this OPB article . Over 5,700 septic systems near the La Pine area need an upgrade—causing increases in nitrates in their well water and seeping into the Deschutes River basin system per this article in the Bend Bulletin. The DEQ Director reported to the Environmental Quality Commission: 1) The Clean Fuels program renewable diesel usage is 2 years ahead of expectations and the City of Portland calculates its population will see $90 million LESS in health care costs in part due to TriMet’s use of renewable diesel 2) They have received monies for a Community Air Action Program from the Environmental Protection Agency for 4 communities and have received interest from over 100 interested parties 3) the Materials Management Division has released grants for $1 million each of the next 2 years 4) Expect rules on Toxics at their Sept. meeting 5) The 2024 Integrated Report is available 6) There will be increased beach water monitoring this year Dept. of State Lands (DSL) By Peggy Lynch The agency will begin rulemaking to consider increasing fees for removal/fill projects. The League will participate. We are also engaged in support of an increased budget for the wetlands division. Additionally, the Governor’s office is going to ask for staffing and program dollars to help with the siting of new housing projects. We hope to see that request before the June 11th State Land Board meeting. DSL is responsible for managing state lands. School lands have supported public education in Oregon since statehood, when Congress provided sections 16 and 36 of every township “for use of schools.” Today, the Oregon Department of State Lands manages Oregon's 681,000 acres of school lands to generate revenue for the Common School Fund See Elliott State Research Forest below for the agency’s role in that issue. Drinking Water Advisory Committee (DWAC) By Sandra Bishop The League’s member was reappointed to this committee . Their next meeting is July 17. Elliott State Research Forest (ESRF) By Peggy Lynch The interim Advisory Group met on May 30th and received an update on the proposed 2025-27 budget and federal conversations. Fire costs are up 13%. With the monies allocated in 2024, hiring for a minimal management staff and the signing of contracts are occurring at DSL. There are continuing conversations with five of Oregon’s tribes and may include official consultations at their request. The State Land Board will meet on June 11 to appoint the new ESRF Board and address the transition related to the new Board’s obligations. The Forest Management Plan should be ready for public comment soon with Land Board consideration at their October meeting. Visit DSL's Elliott webpage to learn more . Forestry ODF’s Urban and Community Forestry (UCF) Program received $26.6 million from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) through the United States Forest Service (USFS). Out of this, $10 million will be awarded to the nine Federally Recognized Tribes of Oregon, and $12.5 million will be available for all eligible entities in Oregon. This opportunity promotes equal access to the benefits of trees and aims to get more people involved in tree planting and comprehensive urban forest management. ODF's UCF Program officially issued the call for proposals for all eligible entities on May 31. The application portal and resources related to this funding opportunity can be found on the UCF subaward program webpage. See also the Wildfire section of this report below. Hanford The State of Washington and federal agencies agree on the future of Tank Waste Cleanup at the Hanford Site. The Hanford Board met on May 21st. LWVOR no longer has a member on the Board and there is a vacancy for “member of the public.” The application is here . Please contact Peggy Lynch at peggylynchor@gmail.com if you would like to follow Oregon’s Hanford Cleanup Board. Land Use & Housing By Peggy Lynch The Senate Interim Committee on Housing and Development’s May 30th agenda focused on housing preservation while the House Interim Committee on Housing and Homelessness agenda included a presentation by Matthew Tschabold, the Governor’s Housing and Homelessness Initiative Director. Here is the Governor’s Homeless Response Framework and here is the DRAFT Housing Production Framework. The League has been engaged with Mr. Tschabold and will continue during the interim. The Dept. of Land Conservation and Development will continue to have a major role in helping local jurisdictions to meet the Governor’s housing goals and their 2025 budget will reflect that role. Follow the work of the Oregon Housing Needs Analysis (OHNA) Rulemaking Committee on the department’s Housing Rulemaking webpage . And watch their meetings on the department’s YouTube channel. See also the Housing Report in the Social Policy section of this Legislative Report. Natural Resource Agencies The Emergency Board approved funding and submission of many federal grants at its May 31st meeting, many of them related to natural resource agencies. The Senate approved a number of executive appointments , including a new Water Resources Dept. Director (Ivan Gall, who most recently served as the interim deputy director of water management) and Sara O’Brien, who most recently served as Executive Director of Willamette Partnership, to lead the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB). Debbie Colbert was chosen by the Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife Commission to be the new Director of ODFW. During the 2024 legislative session, a massive grants program was approved using monies from a settlement with Monsanto to fund significant natural resource restoration in Oregon for at least the next 50 years. Northwest Energy Coalition (NWEC) By Robin Tokmakian The NWEC had its spring conference in Idaho. Here is a summary of the meeting. Reduce/Recycle Look for a battery recycling bill in 2025—where battery manufacturers will need to pay for a recycling program in Oregon. DEQ is conducting rulemaking to clarify and implement HB 3220 (2023) , which updates and makes necessary changes to the statewide electronics recycling program, Oregon E-Cycles. To learn more about this rulemaking and the advisory committee, please visit the Oregon E-Cycles rulemaking web page . Recycling Modernization Act of 2021 ( SB 582 ), which the League supported , has a rulemaking advisory committee with July 27 meetings posted on the Recycling 2024 website. See the website to submit comments on the proposed rules by July 5. Transportation Thanks to Rep. Gomberg, here is a 5-minute video on ODOT’s funding challenge. And here’s an online interactive map that shows projects and their details throughout the state. In early February, the Joint Committee on Transportation (JCT) released a 2024-25 Beginning Conversation Draft Action Plan for the development of the expected 2025 State Transportation Funding Package. Open Houses still happening: Wednesday, June 12: Burns or Ontario (Malheur County Commission Chambers) Thursday, June 13: Baker City or Pendleton (Baker City Armory, Blue Mountain C.C.) Friday, June 28: Eugene (University of Oregon) Tuesday, July 16: Medford or Grants Pass (Medford City Hall, Medford Public Library) Thursday, July 25: Bend or Redmond (Bend Senior Center, OSU Cascades, Fair & Expo Center) Thursday, August 15: Beaverton or Hillsboro (Washington County Commission) Other possible cities to visit as alternative / additions include: The Dalles / Hood River, Roseburg Look for a 2025 conversation on how to fund multiple Oregon transportation needs. This effort was last addressed in 2017. Water By Peggy Lynch Four leading water law experts on Oregon water law presented a letter to the Governor, “An appeal for gubernatorial leadership to modernize Oregon’s water laws,” and shared it with the Senate Interim Natural Resources and the House Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources and Water Committees. This Oregon Capital Chronicle article explains the conversations. We now expect a “water package” in the 2025 session. As a part of this work, the Integrated Water Resources Strategy (IWRS) has been put on pause while new agency leadership is installed. (For more information about the IWRS, visit the IWRS page .) With the appointment of Ivan Gall, it’s time for work to be completed on the IWRS, the OWRD Strategic Plan and other items that have been on hold at the agency. The League provided testimony in support of the Oregon Water Resources Dept. (OWRD) draft proposed groundwater rules . Our Deschutes League has been engaged in water issues in their region and also supports these proposed rules. According to a recent article in the Bend Bulletin , hydrologists and community leaders in Central Oregon are sounding the alarm over the decline and loss of groundwater, with the discharge at the headwaters of the Metolius River down 55 percent over the past six years, while water pumped from underground aquifers "is far outpacing what nature can replace through precipitation." Last year, OWRD said more than 130 people in Central Oregon were seeking financial assistance to repair wells, mainly due to the dropping aquifer, including 114 homeowners in Deschutes County. The cost to repair a well varies depending on several factors but can range from $9,000 to $55,000, said Alyssa Rash, a spokesperson for the department. That is an expense many can’t afford. The League was pleased that a $1 million General Fund was added to the Water Well Abandonment, Repair and Replacement Fund in 2024. The League was engaged in helping create this fund in 2021. The Environmental Protection Agency is revising standards related to tribal water rights. The Umatilla/Morrow County Groundwater (LUBGWMA) issue is still not resolved. The League has brought up this issue with WRD, DEQ and ODA quarterly meetings. The League continues to work to save Oregon’s wetlands and here’s why . We expect to engage with the Governor’s Office regarding housing needs while protecting wetlands. League members may want to check the U. S. Drought Monitor , a map that is updated every Thursday. Here is a more complete website about drought in Oregon. Jefferson County has asked for a drought emergency declaration, but that request has not yet been approved. We all need to pay attention to the potential for harmful algal blooms and practice “when in doubt, stay out.” Visit the Harmful Algae Bloom website or call the Oregon Public Health Division toll-free information line at 877-290-6767 to learn if an advisory has been issued or lifted for a specific water body. DEQ received funding for a six-month seasonal monitoring specialist position in the 23-25 Legislatively Adopted Budget which allowed the lab to expand the 2023 pilot scale recreational HAB network from 10 water bodies to 40 lakes and reservoirs this year. The lab will sample these 40 water bodies four times each from May 2024 through October 2024 in six regional circuits across the state. Wildfire By Carolyn Mayers The League monitored several informational meetings during the recent Interim Legislative Session. The House Committee on Emergency Management, General Government and Veterans met on May 29, and heard an update on the upcoming wildfire season from the Department of Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) Chief Mariana Ruiz-Temple. While the early part of the season shows lower than normal risk for a large part of the State, she strongly emphasized that all indications point to above average risk during the latter part of the season. This, in the face of challenges such as reduced capacity across the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System, reduced rural capacity among volunteer fire service, and continued record drought conditions in vulnerable parts of the state. She also outlined her department’s effort in the area of wildfire mitigation, including providing defensible space assessments to homeowners and community wildfire risk reduction grants. On May 30, the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Wildfire held an informational meeting, devoted primarily to wildfire. All the meeting materials may be found here . First was an update from the Department of Business and Consumer Services on the state of the Homeowners’ Insurance market in Oregon, specific to cancellations and non-renewals, which have decreased slightly. The market appears to have stabilized, at least temporarily, perhaps due to the relatively less costly wildfire events of 2021 and 2022 as compared with 2020. Next was a discussion of the Wildfire Funding Workgroup, which was established by HB 5701, budget note 5. Kyle Williams of the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and Chief Ruiz-Temple of OFSM were the main presenters. There was a sense of urgency expressed throughout the presentations, with the general message being how “desperate” the involved parties are for a fix to the funding system. After several attempts to address the wildfire programs funding crisis failed during the 2024 short session, the mood can best be described as grave concerned “alarm” that there is less overall funding currently than in recent years to fight or prevent this season’s fires, with no solution in sight. It was emphasized repeatedly that this was not a time to “re-litigate policy,” but to figure out funding. Doug Grafe also spoke and pointed out that the most effective tool in the wildfire mitigation toolbox, community resilience, received the biggest decrease in funding for this year, close to a 90% drop. Chief Ruiz-Temple expressed concern about competition for scarce resources among regional agencies in the face of unusually high risk developing in western Washington State, and how that could impact out-of-state assistance as well as risk in NW Oregon. Senator Golden closed that portion of the meeting by urging the work group to focus on getting to what can actually be done, and not let the discussion be dominated for too long by “ideas”. The work group’s first meeting was June 3. Finally, the committee received an update from the Wildfire Programs Advisory Council (WPAC). Doug Grafe, the Governor’s Wildfire Programs Director, and Dave Hunnicutt, Chair, and Mary Kyle McCurdy, Vice-Chair, gave an overview of their work in the coming months. First, Doug mentioned the schedule for the community information sessions that ODF and other agencies will be holding to help communities get answers to their questions about the new wildfire hazard map and other wildfire related issues. They will be touring in the areas of highest wildfire hazard. This was followed by brief descriptions of the work the WPAC will be doing this summer, mainly focusing on prescribed fire, community risk reduction, and the wildfire funding workgroup. There have been other items of interest recently. On May 15, Governor Kotek and members of various agencies held a press conference to discuss the 2024 wildfire season. This press release describes what was covered. Lastly, sadly the “good news” that SB 1520 passed during the short session, to ensure that recipients of settlements or judgment from wildfire losses-related lawsuits would avoid being excessively taxed in Oregon on those proceeds, is now tempered by the bad news that a similar federal tax law is “stuck”. This Oregon Live Article describes the difficulty this legislation faces in Congress. Volunteers Needed What is your passion related to Natural Resources? You can help. Volunteers are needed. The long legislative session begins in January of 2025. Natural Resource Agency Boards and Commissions meet regularly year-round and need monitoring. If any area of natural resources is of interest to you, please contact Peggy Lynch, Natural Resources Coordinator, at peggylynchor@gmail.com . Training will be offered.

The Oregon Student Mock Election is open to all students and educators. Learn more. / Youth / Mock Election / ✨ Over 33,000 students participated in the 2024 Oregon Student Mock Election. Read more... Engage your students in the next election! The LWVOR Oregon Student Mock Election, endorsed by the Oregon Secretary of State , is an exciting experience-based educational program that involves participating students in the electoral process and demonstrates the importance of voting. Are you interested in receiving a mock ballot for the next election in your area? Contact us for personalized classroom support at mockelection [@] lwvor.org . Register your students! Civics Education Curriculum A Guide to Student Civic Engagement Our free, non-partisan Civics Education Curriculum covers voting, government, and elections. It's packed with classroom-ready lessons and activities, printable handouts and more! Get the Curriculum Educator Resources Civic Lessons: Oregon’s Political Parties and Closed Primaries Civic Lessons: Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) General OSME Lesson Plan (Updated specifically at the time of each election) Civics Education Curriculum Help spread the word! Printable OSME Quarter Page Flyer (PDF) ✨Contact Us Are you interested in bringing a hands-on civic experience to your students for the next election in your area? Contact us to receive personalized support for your classroom: mockelection [@] lwvor.org Additional Resources The following sites provide additional civics education resources for teachers. Civics Learning Project Center for Civic Education National Voter Registration Day Rock the Vote Secretary of State Elections Division (Oregon Votes) Case Method Project NextUp The Civics Center Oregon Coalition Against Hate Crimes Alliance For Youth Action Tufts: Media and Voting The Civics Center Energizing Young Voters Facing History Nonprofit Vote U.S. Dept. of Education: Student Vot er Participation Toolkit VerifyIt! promotes media literacy for informed voting, using source ratings for unbiased news. Learn more here . Sponsors and Supporters Oregon Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade Members of the League of Women Voters This program was made possible in part by a grant from Oregon Humanities and the National Endowment for the Humanities. Sign Up For Email We Need Your Support Today! Donate Your donation empowers voters and defends democracy.

Back to All Legislative Reports Social Policy Legislative Report - Week of 2/20 Social Policy Team Coordinator: Jean Pierce • After School and Summer Care: Katie Riley • Behavioral Health: Trish Garner • Criminal Justice/Juvenile Justice: Marge Easley / Sharron Noon • Education: Jean Pierce / Stephanie Engle • Equal Rights for All Ballot Measure: Jean Pierce Kyra Aguon • Gender-Related Concerns, Reproductive Health, Age Discrimination: Trish Garner • Gun Safety & Gun Issues, Rights for Incarcerated People: Marge Easley • Hate and Bias Crimes: Claudia Keith/ Becky Gladstone /rhyen enger • Health Care: Christa Danielsen • Housing: Debbie Aiona and Nancy Donovan Housing By Nancy Donovan and Debbie Aiona The Legislature is introducing bold and innovative bills to address critical issues facing our state, including homelessness, evictions, social inequities, and a severe affordable housing shortage. Both chambers are working responsively to advance bills that address the Governor’s housing emergency in order to provide for Oregonians most in need. SB 702 - Appraiser Certification - Passed! This bill proposes new educational requirements for appraisers and appraiser assistants, to comply with state and federal fair housing laws and implicit bias, including racial bias. National studies have identified race-based disparities in appraisals. In Oregon, appraisers are covered by Oregon’s fair housing statutes and the federal Fair Housing Act (1968), however, current appraiser education requirements do not specifically cover racial bias or appraiser responsibilities under state or federal fair housing laws. In 2022, the legislature appointed a Joint Task Force on Addressing Racial Disparities in Home Ownership. The Task Force proposed amending ORS 674.310 to insert language to include these new appraiser education requirements. Senate Housing and Development passed the measure on 2/20 with 24 voting yes, and 6 voting no. SB 799 - Eviction Reform and Reduction This bill would prevent a landlord from delivering a notice to terminate a tenant for nonpayment of rent for 60 days, while a rental assistance application is pending. Landlords would be required to deliver a notice specifying the tenant’s rights and available resources. It would extend the 72-hour timeline for issuance of notice of nonpayment and intention to terminate a rental agreement to 10 days and extend the 144-hour timeline to 13 days. Senate bill 799 has been incorporated into HB 2001-1 , Oregon Housing and Community Services Governor’s spending package. HB 2456 - Support for At-Risk or Homeless Youth This bill would allow the Housing and Community Services Department to award grants to organizations that provide evidence-based services for youth experiencing or at-risk of homelessness. Under the bill, the agency’s housing assistance programs would provide services and assistance to school-aged children experiencing or at risk of homelessness. It also modifies eligibility requirements for applicants for grants from homeless youth services enhancement program and host home project program. This bill has been incorporated into HB 2001-1 , Oregon Housing and Community Services Governor’s spending package. A public hearing was held on 2/23. SB 599-A - Child Care in Rental Homes - Passed! Senate Housing and Development passed this bill on 2/15, with 27 voting yes and 3 voting no. It requires landlords to allow tenants to use their units for childcare if the home is certified or registered with the Office of Child Care, the tenant has notified the landlord, and the home does not violate zoning regulations or an association’s governing documents. Lack of access to childcare is a significant barrier for all parents, but particularly to women’s participation in the workforce. Criminal Justice By Karen Nibler The House Judiciary heard HB 2405 on fitness to proceed evaluations this week. The bill stipulates that those committed to the Oregon State Hospital for an Aid and Assist evaluation be returned to the committing county for court disposition on these cases. The Marion County Commissioners and the Association of Oregon Counties supported this bill since these patients are frequently released in the Salem community. The Criminal Defense Attorney Association supported this request to return patients to the county of commitment where their legal cases can be resolved. Disability Rights Oregon was opposed and requested return back to their home county where services may be available for discharged patients. The home county may not be the county where criminal charges and commitment were ordered. The criminal charges may not be dismissed until the defendant is returned to the county of jurisdiction, and or the criminal charges are prosecuted if found able to aid and assist. The Public Safety Ways and Means Subcommittee reviewed the Oregon Youth Authority Budget SB 5541 over 3 days this week. The agency director reported that fewer youth were committed in the past 4 years. Residential facilities also closed, losing 70 beds for youth residents. The Governor’s Budget for the agency was decreased for the lower numbers of residents. The Juvenile Justice Information System, operated by the Oregon Youth Authority and used by the County Juvenile Departments, was built in 1997 and is due for modernization. This project is estimated to cost $3.4 million.

Upcoming events happening around Oregon. Check registration details. / Calendar / Calendar Meetings, Holidays, and Other Events Our events, meetings, and online/in-person opportunities can be found in our VOTER monthly newsletter in the NEWS section . Contact lwvor@lwvor.org if you have any questions or require a meeting link. Note: Many events are open to League members only. You can sign up for League communications here. Email membership@lwvor.org or call us at (503) 581-5722 for more information. Join or renew League membership online here . You are seconds away from getting this done. 🤩 
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LWVOR's Immigration Policy positions and updates. / Immigration / Immigration Know Your Rights When Dealing with Police and Immigration Everyone in Oregon has rights when stopped by police, regardless of immigration status, and state "sanctuary" laws prohibit local law enforcement from asking about or reporting immigration status to federal authorities. For more about Oregon's "sanctuary" laws and tools to find more information and legal help, go here. Why It Matters All people should receive fair treatment under the law, and Oregon must ensure that new citizens are supported in participating fully in our democracy. Immigrants strengthen the social, cultural, and economic fabric of our state. What We're Doing Advocacy We support federal immigration laws that provide efficient, equitable systems for immigrants to enter and thrive in the United States. Congress must take immediate action to pass common-sense immigration policies that address border management humanely, protect families from separation, and establish a fair path to citizenship. Locally, we advocate for Oregon to continue as a welcoming state that supports immigrant communities and resists discriminatory policies. Supporting a Path to Citizenship Diverse voices enrich our democracy, and Oregon benefits from its vibrant immigrant populations. The League believes a pathway to citizenship or provisions for unauthorized immigrants already living in the U.S. to earn legal status will strengthen both our state and our nation. We have lobbied Congress for a fair path to citizenship and supported the DREAM Act, which is critical for enabling immigrant youth to become fully contributing members of society. In Oregon, these efforts ensure thousands of Dreamers can access education and career opportunities, benefiting our communities and economy. Helping New Americans Become Active Participants in Our Democracy Voter education and registration are cornerstones of the League’s work, and we focus on empowering new Oregonians to engage in civic life. The strongest democracy is one in which every voice is heard. The League is committed to helping new citizens in Oregon become active in political life by providing civic education and registering voters at naturalization ceremonies across the state. We partner with local organizations to ensure all Oregonians, regardless of background, have a voice in shaping our future. Immigration Resolution Adopted at the 2020 LWVUS Convention: Be it resolved the League of Women Voters reaffirms our commitment to Immigration reform: laws that provide efficient, expeditious systems for immigrants to enter the United States. The League stands in solidarity with immigrants and our partners in the immigrant rights community. Congress must take immediate action to pass common sense, fair immigration policies that end the crisis at our borders, end the separation of families, ensure their health and safety, and provide a clear path to citizenship which includes the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) young people. Resources for Immigrants, Refugees, and Allies Providing food, clothing, etc. Catholic Charities Oregon Lutheran Community Services Northwest Greeting refugees at the airport Offering English language instruction Helping with resettlement (finding employment, enrolling children in school, etc.) United Services for Counseling Mental Health Resources for Undocumented People Offering legal services Oregon Immigration Legal Services Directory Sponsors Organized to Assist Refugees (SOAR) Immigration Legal Services Networking with Partners Rural Organizing Project Human Dignity Groups Portland: Immigration Counseling Service Innovation Law Lab Accompanying immigrants at court hearings Love Resists Through Radical Presence: ICE & Court Accompaniment Programs Getting started with accompaniment networks and hosting asylum-seeking families and individuals Community Accompaniment Program with Asylum Seekers Interfaith Movement for Immigrant Justice Training for volunteers to walk side-by-side with individuals during their immigration process. Advocating for fair immigration policies Interfaith Immigration Coalition Educating the community about immigrant biases, immigration law, and policies DoJ: The Sanctuary Promise in Oregon Community Toolkit covers details in the law and people’s rights. Do your county’s policies violate the Sanctuary Promise Act? And how you can get involved. National Immigration Law Center Know Your Rights Resources for Farmworker Justice Latest from the League Action Alert: End the Shutdown/Protect Healthcare and SNAP ACTION ALERT: Oppose HB 3392 - Don't Delay Campaign Finance Reform Action Alert: Support Our Coastal Habitats

Back to All Legislative Reports Governance Internships Legislative Report - November Interim Governance Team Coordinator: Becky Gladstone and Chris Cobey Artificial Intelligence: Lindsey Washburn Campaign Finance Reform: Norman Turrill Conflicts of Interest/Legislative Ethics: Chris Cobey CEI - Critical Energy Infrastructure : Nikki Mandell and Laura Rogers Cybersecurity Privacy, Election Issues, Electronic Portal Advisory Board: Becky Gladstone Election Systems: Barbara Klein Emergency Preparedness: Cate Arnold Immigration, Refugee, and Asylum: Claudia Keith Redistricting: Norman Turrill, Chris Cobey State Audit Working Group: Sheila Golden Voting Rights of Incarcerated People: Marge Easley Jump to a topic: Campaign Finance and Redistricting County Elections challenges, EPAB-Broadband Equity, SCR, and Capitol update Election Methods Election Signs for Sale By Norman Turrill, Governance Coordinator, and Team Campaign Finance and Redistricting By Norman Turill The LWV of Oregon has endorsed and is actively circulating IP 9 on Campaign Finance and IP 14 on Redistricting. Petitions can be downloaded, printed*, signed and returned by mail from the Honest Elections website for IP 9 and the People Not Politicians website for IP 14. Both initiative petition filings are due to the Secretary of State by July 5, 2024. *Be sure to print both sides! County Elections challenges, EPAB-Broadband Equity, SCR, and Capitol update By Rebecca Gladstone Legislative efforts reported here tend to be large projects better addressed in long sessions, so short sessions are often for urgent needs or to adjust and implement the Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) into Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR). Elections manuals are up for review and multiple election rulemaking hearings are set for December. Recent interim news includes: Oregon’s county elections staffing study Recommendations to House Rules included improving support with direct communications between the Elections Division, the Oregon Association of County Clerks (OACC) and the clerks themselves. As law enforcement i nvestigated elections office threats around the country, including in Lane County, House Rules heard a county elections staffing study presentation that found county elections working intensely for at least 8 months in even years, with inadequate and uneven funding to address more complex rules, technology, and safety efforts. Unusually heavy public records requests accompanied abuse, threats, and harassment. Retirements and unusually high resignation rates make understaffing worse. Pay is low for the stress and public scrutiny in the antagonistic political environment, “…the In-N-Out Burger across the street can out-pay me”. LWVOR has called for local Leagues to reach out in appreciation to their county election offices and is inquiring to LWVUS advocacy, as they discuss pushing the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee to increase support to protect elections workers . This LWVOR testimony includes lists of earlier support: SB 166 , ( testimony ) to protect elections workers SB 167 , ( testimony ) elections procedural updates HB 3073 , ( testimony ) home address privacy HB 3111 , ( testimony ) personal information privacy HB 4144 , ( testimony ) home address privacy HB 3047 , ( testimony ) doxing, harassment and injury SB 293 , ( testimony ) elevate state government privacy, confidentiality and data security The House Rules meeting materials included experts we consulted for our LWVOR Elections Methods studies. See the updates in 2023 , 2016 , and the 2008 in our archives. Oregon Data Literacy Framework Work Group update From the Dept of Administrative Services (DAS), the data literacy framework and final report is open to accept comments until January 31, 2024. The Chief Data Officer and Oregon Data Literacy Work Group and Chair will review comments to inform future implementation, expansion, and/or adjustments to the overall framework. SCR, Senate Commemorative Resolution for Alice Bartelt Senate President Rob Wagner requested League support in compiling and processing a resolution commemorating Alice Bartelt, our recently deceased LWVOR President. The draft was submitted to Legislative Counsel and will be presented during the 2024 session. The Capitol Accessibility, Maintenance, and Safety (CAMS) Project An update was presented to the Joint Legislative Administration Committee, describing completed work, what should be done in time for the 2025 session, and work continuing on after the 2025 session. For the 2024 session: Both chambers will be in use and accessible from the wings as during the 2023 session. Hearing Rooms A-F, 170 & 174 will be in use for committees. All three entrances on State Street and both garage entrances will be available. EPAB, Oregon Digital Equity Plan The Oregon Electronic Portal Advisory Board ( EPAB ) November quarterly meeting included a broadband equity report. The Oregon Broadband Office (OBO) has issued a Oregon Digital Equity Plan Report , with Strategy 1–Put People First, to identify Oregonian’s digital government needs and to continue updating the Oregon.gov platform. OBO welcomes all to submit comments on the draft via the OBO Public Comment Portal by 5pm PST, December 16, 2023. The draft Oregon Digital Equity plan: Addresses Oregon’s digital equity challenges. Will be submitted for implementation funding to the National Telecommunication & Information Administration (NTIA), with multiple E-Government Program and EPAB references. Describes the program services scope. Includes statewide Accessibility Guidance for Oregon.gov websites. Is an Enterprise accessibility testing/quality assurance tool for websites. Is a collaboration with PSU Hatfield School of Government to study online needs for Oregonians (2022) and the state’s communities of color (2023). BACKGROUND: OBO maintains an online, interactive map of Oregon broadband availability , created in 2009 with a new version launched in 2019. Data layers include service providers, broadband technologies, service speeds, service availability reported by providers to the FCC, population density, and anchor institutions. Oregon has funding from the U.S. Economic Development Administration and with OSU partnership, the map will be upgraded to include an application portal, dig once map, and data submission portal. The map has several information layers to enable OBO to support Oregon’s Digital Equity Plan. New upgrade layers include a map of maximum available download speed, locations lacking service, and separate layers for each of the following community anchor institution categories: community support (government and non-government), library, hospital, fire station, law enforcement, school (K-12), higher education, inclusive of a covered population layer. EPAB advises the State Chief Information Officer about Oregon’s web services, websites and e‑commerce. Rebecca Gladstone is the appointed public member. The Capitol Accessibility, Maintenance, and Safety (CAMS) Project An update was presented to Joint Legislative Administration, describing completed work, what should be done in time for the 2025 session, and work continuing on after the 2025 session. For the 2024 session: Both chambers will be in use and accessible from the wings as during the 2023 session. Hearing Rooms A-F, 170 & 174 will be in use for committees. All three entrances on State Street and both garage entrances will be available. Election Methods By Barbara Klein No bills were taken up during this interim legislative session that relate to election systems. There were rumors of some efforts to oppose Ranked Choice Voting via legislation or the ballot, but as of yet, it is unclear whether this will materialize. Due to the decision of the legislature in June 2023, Ranked Choice Voting will be on the 2024 general ballot (for implementation in 2028). Election Signs for Sale The LWV of Umpqua Valley has 3 different kinds of signs. They are double-sided, printed on sturdy paper, coated to make them rain-proof, and 18 inches by 12 inches (not self-standing). See LWV Umpqua Valley for more information and photos of the signs: 1) End Gerrymandering Now and on the back #Fair Maps 2) Vote411 and on the back Register to Vote 3) Voting is People Power and it’s blank on the backside The signs are $5 each plus UPS shipping. Contact them at info@lwvuv.org .

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Back to All Legislative Reports Social Policy Legislative Report - Week of 5/1 Social Policy Team Coordinator: Jean Pierce • After School and Summer Care: Katie Riley • Behavioral Health: Trish Garner • Criminal Justice/Juvenile Justice: Marge Easley / Sharron Noon • Education: Jean Pierce / Stephanie Engle • Equal Rights for All Ballot Measure: Jean Pierce Kyra Aguon • Gender-Related Concerns, Reproductive Health, Age Discrimination: Trish Garner • Gun Safety & Gun Issues, Rights for Incarcerated People: Marge Easley • Hate and Bias Crimes: Claudia Keith/ Becky Gladstone /rhyen enger • Health Care: Christa Danielsen • Housing: Debbie Aiona and Nancy Donovan Jump to a topic: Housing Gun Safety Housing By Debbie Aiona and Nancy Donovan To address the state’s Homelessness State of Emergency Governor Kotek launched earlier this year an emergency response initiative made up of seven regional multi-agency coordinating groups (MAC). On April 28, the Governor and Oregon Housing and Community Services announced that the funding agreements have been signed and are being sent to the regional MAC groups to effectively distribute this critically needed emergency resource. HB 3462 Emergency Housing for All. This bill would ensure that safe temporary emergency housing is provided when a state of emergency is declared in a manner consistent with nondiscrimination laws, including the Fair Housing Act of 1968. This legislation would ensure emergency housing for households regardless of their immigration status. HB 3462 passed the House on April 14 and is scheduled for a work session in the Senate Committee on Housing and Development on May 8. HB 3042 Renter Protections in housing with expiring affordability contracts. This would require owners of rental housing who intend to end their government affordability contract to give three years notice to tenants, increase rent no more than once a year during that three-year period, and comply with state-imposed limits on rent increases. This legislation is intended to give tenants time to seek other housing and hopefully avoid homelessness. The House passed the bill on April 5. Senate Housing and Development has a May 15 work session scheduled. SB 702 Adopt Training for real estate appraisers and assistants. At the present time, appraiser education requirements do not include provisions specifically covering racial bias or appraiser responsibilities under state or federal fair housing laws. The League submitted testimony in support. The House held a work session on April 27 with a do pass recommendation and a third reading on May 4. SB 611 A : Rental Assistance to keep Oregonians stably housed. General Fund monies would appropriate $25 million to Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) for the biennium beginning July 1, 2023. The funds would provide tenant assistance to people who are disabled, elderly, victims of domestic abuse, veterans, or members of households with incomes at 60% or less of the area median income. OHCS indicated that as of December 2022, the agency paid over $426 million in rental assistance to 67,522 Oregon households. Program funding has been exhausted but the need remains high. Senate Rules scheduled a May 4work session. SB 611 A would also modify the maximum annual residential rent increase to the lesser of 10% or 5% plus the consumer price index one-year change. It applies the rent increase limit to units from which a tenant was evicted, and limits increases to no more than once in any 12-month period on tenancies other than week-to-week. HB 2680 Screening fees charged for rental applications. HB 2680 would require the landlord to refund screening fees within 30 days if the landlord fills the unit before screening the applicant or if the application is withdrawn before the screening. If the landlord fails to return the fee, damages the applicant may recover range from $150 to $250 under the new legislation. A work session in the House is scheduled for May 15. HB 3151 A Manufactured Home Park Modifications. This legislation builds on policies adopted in recent years to protect manufactured home park dwellers and provides legal assistance grants for low-income residents. It would limit improvements a landlord could require of tenants and prohibit requiring improvements that could not be removed at the end of the tenancy. It would also prevent charging tenants for system development charges. The House passed HB 3151 on March 22. Senate Housing and Development will hold a May 10 work session. Gun Safety By Marge Easley The big news is the May 2nd passage on the House floor of HB 2005 B , the omnibus gun bill that bans undetectable firearms (“ghost guns”), raises the minimum age to purchase firearms to 21, and allows cities and counties to create gun-free zones. Although rhetoric on gun safety bills is normally heated, it is a relief to report that representatives on both sides of the aisle remained calm and respectful throughout the debate. The bill passed with 35 ayes and 24 nays.

Back to All Legislative Reports Governance Internships Legislative Report - Week of 5/8 Governance Team Coordinator: Becky Gladstone and Chris Cobey Artificial Intelligence: Lindsey Washburn Campaign Finance Reform: Norman Turrill Conflicts of Interest/Legislative Ethics: Chris Cobey CEI - Critical Energy Infrastructure : Nikki Mandell and Laura Rogers Cybersecurity Privacy, Election Issues, Electronic Portal Advisory Board: Becky Gladstone Election Systems: Barbara Klein Emergency Preparedness: Cate Arnold Immigration, Refugee, and Asylum: Claudia Keith Redistricting: Norman Turrill, Chris Cobey State Audit Working Group: Sheila Golden Voting Rights of Incarcerated People: Marge Easley Jump to a topic: Campaign Finance Redistricting Legislators’ Walkout Is Freezing Governance Rights of Incarcerated People Governance By Norman Turrill, Governance Coordinator, and Team It appears to this reporter that the Oregon legislative session could effectively be over. Several Republican Senators will soon run out of their 9 allowed unexcused absences, but several others will alternate with them to deny a quorum in the Senate for a few more days or a week. Constitutional Sine Die is June 25, which is six and a half weeks away. However, the 25 Republican legislators in the House may now start denying a quorum in their chamber. The required House quorum is 40 members, so the absences of just 21 Republicans could stop all business in the House on a rotating basis for weeks. A deal between Democratic and Republican leaders could still allow some final budget and uncontroversial bills to be passed. We would also not rule out the Governor calling a special session. Campaign Finance No bills on campaign finance have yet been scheduled for a hearing. For campaign finance reform, the League wants true reform without loopholes for large special interest organizations. We hope that the negotiations that they’re working on now lead to real progress. Redistricting People Not Politicians has started collecting signatures on IP 14 petitions downloadable from its website. Thousands of signatures have been collected and more donations are needed. Legislators’ Walkout Is Freezing Governance By Rebecca Gladstone The ongoing Senate Republican walkout was in the ninth day as of this writing, with leadership agreeing not to hold Senate floor sessions for the remainder of this week, to allow weekend negotiations. That could avert invoking the 10-day walkout consequences that voters passed by a wide margin in November 2022. Meanwhile, bills continue to stack up, as the clock runs out pressing this now elapsing time. We hope negotiations will drop reading bills to regain that time. Most bills here are exempt from deadlines but are frozen by the walkout. We are especially concerned for responsible review and progress for bills that timed out in the 2022 session, for election security with new software in the SoS budget bill, the cybersecurity omnibus bill, the AG’s Data Broker bill, and the Chief Data Privacy Officer bill, all covered in earlier reports. Here's last week’s slim progress. HB 5032 A Enrolled : The governor signed this Public Records Advocate funding bill on May 8. ( our testimony ). HB 2490 : This cybersecurity vulnerability bill passed in a May 9 Senate committee work session, on a partisan vote for 3 in favor, 1 absent (excused for illness), and 2 absent, relating to the Republican walkout. The League urges for maximum protection of public health, safety, and the environment. Defending our critical infrastructures is at stake ( our testimony ). HB 2806 , for public safety and cybersecurity, awaits transfer to the Senate President’s desk and scheduling for a Senate floor reading, rescheduled to May 15 and 16, with dates subject to change. See our testimony . SB 11 : This got unanimous support in a May 9 House committee, awaiting transfer to the President’s desk for signature. This access and transparency bill, with strong bipartisan support, requires virtual public state meetings to record and promptly publicize recordings. We will look for data retention rules. SB 417 : For this public records bill, we’ve attended weekly Task Force meetings since March 7, and it is forwarding findings with amendment recommendations. Intense legal discussions over careful wording distinctions had input on behalf of District Attorneys, the Society of Professional Journalists, Public Records Advocates, and others, including the League. See our testimony , predating this work. Rights of Incarcerated People By Marge Easley SB 529 , which enables the expansion and revamping of drug treatment programs within Oregon’s correctional system, passed the House on May 8 with a vote of 48 to 12. The bill affirms that addiction is a chronic disease, modifies program acceptance procedures, removes the old requirement that program participants engage in physical work and exercise, and includes a range of structured treatment services. SB 529 is a complementary bill to HB 2890 A , which directs a Corrections Ombudsman to support continuous quality improvement efforts and report back to the Governor and the Legislature within six months of appointment. The Ombudsman’s task is to “ensure all persons confined in Department of Corrections institutions have access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment and services during the entire period of incarceration, including access to evidence-based medication-assisted treatment options. The bill, championed by Rep. Maxine Dexter, passed House Judiciary on April 11 and was sent to W&Ms by prior reference. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED. Worthy causes go unaddressed for lack of League volunteers. If you see a need and can offer your expertise, please contact our staff at lwvor@lwvor.org .

Back to All Legislative Reports Social Policy Legislative Report - Week of 2/24 Social Policy Team Coordinator: Jean Pierce • After School and Summer Care: Katie Riley • Behavioral Health: Trish Garner • Criminal Justice/Juvenile Justice: Marge Easley / Sharron Noon • Education: Jean Pierce / Stephanie Engle • Equal Rights for All Ballot Measure: Jean Pierce Kyra Aguon • Gender-Related Concerns, Reproductive Health, Age Discrimination: Trish Garner • Gun Safety & Gun Issues, Rights for Incarcerated People: Marge Easley • Hate and Bias Crimes: Claudia Keith/ Becky Gladstone /rhyen enger • Health Care: Christa Danielsen • Housing: Debbie Aiona and Nancy Donovan Please see the Legislation Tracker for 2025 Social Policy bills . Jump to topic: Age Discrimination/Reproductive Health Behavioral Health Criminal Justice Education Healthcare Housing Immigration Age Discrimination/Reproductive Health By Trish Garner HB 3187 : League supports . A hearing was held on this workplace age discrimination bill in the House Labor and Workplace Standards Committee on February 19, 2024. The bill closes a loophole that exists regarding lawsuits claiming discrimination based on age such that even if employers take a negative action regarding employees or job applicants based on age, they can avoid liability by claiming that they made the decision based on salary, retirement status or length of service. This loophole does not exist in cases based on discrimination based on race or gender. SB 548 : League supports. A hearing was held in the Senate Judiciary Committee on February 19, 2024. The bill provides that the minimum age for marriage is 18, with no exceptions. Marriage at earlier ages disproportionately harms girls by potentially disrupting their education, increasing the risk of domestic abuse and causing serious health consequences. It also raises significant questions about the voluntary nature of entering into marriage as minors under 18 are more vulnerable to pressure from family and peers. Under Oregon law, once an individual marries, they are considered emancipated adults. This change carries significant financial, social and psychological consequences. For example, parents are no longer legally obligated to support their children or provide medical insurance coverage when their children are emancipated. Behavioral Health By Stephanie Aller HB 2596 , the School Psychologist Interstate Licensure Compact, passed in the House on February 20. HB 3129 would establish the Higher Education Behavioral Health Workforce Expansion Fund. The bill will have a public hearing on February 25 before the House Committee on Higher Education and Workforce Development. The League will submit testimony. The League of Women Voters of Oregon submitted testimony in support of HB 3351 which would enact the interstate Counseling Compact. There is a critical shortage of behavioral health workers in Oregon. HB 3351 can help increase access to care, particularly among underserved populations. Criminal Justice By Marge Easley LWVOR submitted testimony for HB 2233 , which renews funding for a legal services program for adults in custody at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility, unanimously passed out of the House Judiciary Committee on February 18 and was referred to Ways and Means. The total fiscal impact is estimated at $1.6 million. Education By Jean Pierce Education Committees from both Chambers will hold a joint meeting at 5:30 on Wednesday, February 26 to hear a report commissioned by the Legislature from the American Institutes for Research (AIR), which studied recent education financing in Oregon. This follows a Quality Education Model (QEM) Report issued in August, 2024, which concluded, Due to tax revenue barriers and decreased prioritization of K-12 public education funding over the past 25 years, Oregon is projected to fund its K-12 system close to two billion dollars less per biennium than is needed to run a system of effective schools. The AIR report recommends that the QEM consider additional factors in its cost projections. The League submitted testimony for SB604 , which would fund the Higher Education Coordinating Commission’s Strong Start program, which has a history of success in supporting underrepresented students at public universities. LWVOR also submitted testimony for HB2997 , which directs the Higher Education Coordinating Commission to establish a grant program supporting organizations with proven track records of expanding access to populations which are under-represented in colleges and universities. LWVOR is tracking HB2953 , which would remove the artificial cap on special education funding provided to districts. HB2953-A was considered in a House Committee on Education work session on February 20, which concluded “Do pass with amendments, refer to Revenue and then to Ways and Means”. LWVOR is also tracking HB2586 , which would permit an asylum seeker who is a student at a public university in this state to receive an exemption from nonresident tuition and fees. The bill received a public hearing on February 4th. Healthcare By Christa Danielson LWVOR submitted testimony for HB 2010-A, which extends assessments from health plan premiums, payments by Oregon Health to managed care, hospitals, and the Oregon Reinsurance program. Previously, this amended bill passed through the House Committee on Behavioral Health and Health Care. The League submitted testimony for a public hearing held by the House Committee on Revenue. The committee voted to pass the amended bill on February 20. Housing By Nancy Donovan and Debbie Aiona HB 2958 would extend the sunset date for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) by six years, from Jan. 1, 2026 to Jan. 1, 2032. It would increase Oregon’s percentage of the federal EITC for lower income taxpayers from nine percent to 20 percent and for those with children under age three from 12 percent to 25 percent. The bill also would expand eligibility to all childless adults over the age of 18. League testimony explained the importance of strengthening the tax credit. This tax policy currently provides critical support for Oregonians struggling to make ends meet. Costs for food, housing, child care, transportation, health care, and other essentials continue to grow, placing a significant strain on household budgets. By strengthening the state EITC, individuals and families will receive help keeping up with those growing costs. The bill is scheduled for a February 25 public hearing in the House Committee on Revenue. LWVOR submitted testimony supporting HB 3507 . This bill proposes to invest $30 million in down payment assistance to Oregon Housing and Community Services to increase the eligibility of its Culturally Responsive Organization Program and Homeownership Program targeted to low- and moderate-income first-time homebuyers. Investing $30 million will open the door to an estimated 750 first-time and first-generation homebuyers, helping them plant roots in their communities. Moderate Income Revolving Loan program : In good news on the housing production front, Governor Kotek and Oregon Housing and Community Services announced the start of the new Moderate Income Revolving Loan program. It will provide zero interest loans to cities and counties. They will offer grants to developers building rental or homeownership units affordable to households earning no more than 120 percent of area median income. Over time, the grants will be paid back to local jurisdictions which will repay the state fund, thus providing a stable source of funds for future projects. Immigration By Claudia Keith Find below a list of policy and or funding-related bills that may have traction. Additionally, there are a number of other bills proposed in Oregon supporting the new 2025 federal administration potential policies that, given House and Senate Democratic supermajorities, will likely not receive a public hearing. Given where we are in the session, it is not clear if these bills will receive public hearings. Depending on the revenue forecast the funding bills may show up in the end-of-session reconciliation bill. (Christmas tree bill) SB 149 DHS Immigration Study - Sen Jama
 SB 599 : Immigration status - discrimination in real estate transactions - Senator Campos
 SB 611 : Food for All Oregonians Program - Senator Campos, Representative Ruiz
 SB 703 : A bipartisan immigration status update funding bill - Senator Reynolds, Representatives Neron, Ruiz, Smith HB2788 : Aunding to nonprofits to assist with lawful permanent resident status / legal aid - Representatives Neron and Ruiz, Senator Reynolds
 HB 2586 : Nonresident tuition exemption for asylum seekers. - Representative Hudson, Senator Campos; Work session 2/27 HB 2543 : 15$M for Universal FUND: The Act gives funds to Oregon Department of Administrative Services (ODAS) for universal representation and the Act gives funds to Oregon State Bar for legal help for immigration matters.
 HB 5002 : ODAS Agency Budget: includes 7$M for Oregon Worker Relief Fund Immigration resources in Oregon Coalition of Communities of Color Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization (IRCO):
Serves immigrants and refugees in Portland, Oregon. 

 Office of Immigrant and Refugee Advancement (OIRA):
Advocates for immigrants and refugees in Oregon. OIRA is part of the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS). 



 Oregon Department of Justice has a Community Toolkit with information about immigration and civil rights. 




 Oregon Justice Resource Center Offers case assistance for immigrants through the Immigrant Rights Project (IRP). 






 Education League Education, March 12 opportunity: Spring 2025 Community Education Series: Immigration - League of Women Voters of Portland Sanctuary Promise Guidance - Oregon Department of Justice Oregon Office of Immigrant and Refugee Advancement OIRA Immigration and Refugee News and events and Mission, Vision and VALUES : “As OIRA talks with federal, state, local and community partners, we will continue to post the most updated information we have on this web page.” Immigrants in Oregon : American Immigration Council resources. State Map on Immigration Enforcement 2024 : Immigrant Legal Resource Center In the News Oregon Republicans seek to partially roll back state sanctuary laws - kgw.com February 11 U.S. Rep. Salinas expects Trump to continue crackdown on immigrants despite any court action - Oregon Capital Chronicle February 6 Staff and Students at Oregon Colleges Brace for Possible Immigration Enforcement - Oregon Public Broadcasting February 5 Immigrants in Oregon could be significantly impacted by Trump’s second term - Oregon Capital Chronicle January 21 Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Climate Emergency , Governance , and Natural Resources report sections.

League of Women Voters Member since 1998 League of Women Voters U.S,- Ruth S. Shur Membership and Leadership Fellow 2011-2013 Founder Yellow Rose Events-Women's History Celebrations, 2010 to present 1st Vice President, League of Women Voters of Butte County, CA President, League of Women Voters El Dorado County, CA Events Chair, League of Women Voters of Oregon Events Chair, League of Women Voters, Marion-Polk Counties, OR Eileen Burke-Trent Events Chair League of Women Voters Member since 1998 League of Women Voters U.S,- Ruth S. Shur Membership and Leadership Fellow 2011-2013 Founder Yellow Rose Events-Women's History Celebrations, 2010 to present 1st Vice President, League of Women Voters of Butte County, CA President, League of Women Voters El Dorado County, CA Events Chair, League of Women Voters of Oregon Events Chair, League of Women Voters, Marion-Polk Counties, OR

The LWVOR Board adopted this completed restudy on February 10th, 2023. You can find the downloadable copy of the study here.  Election Methods Study Update 2023 About the Study The LWVOR Board adopted this completed restudy on February 10th, 2023. You can find the downloadable copy of the study here. At Convention 2021, LWV of Portland proposed a restudy of LWVOR's 2016 Election Methods Study. It would examine the STAR voting system and would last one year or less. The goal would be to inform League members about the benefits and limitations of the STAR voting option that is being promoted by a group of advocates. It would also be to determine whether or not the League could support or should oppose the adoption of STAR voting in Oregon. The LWVOR Board adopted this completed restudy on February 10th, 2023. You can find the downloadable copy of the study here . In May 2023, LWVOR issued a statement regarding STAR (Score Then Automatic Runoff) Voting. Election Methods Position - Adopted 2017 The League of Women Voters of Oregon recognizes that election methods affect how voters participate in our democracy, who can run for office, and who can get elected. Therefore, the League supports election methods that: Encourage voter participation and voter engagement. Encourage those with minority opinions to participate. Are easy to use. Are verifiable and auditable. Promote access to voting. Promote competitive elections. Promote sincere voting over strategic voting. Discourage negative campaigning. Prevent political manipulation (e.g. Gerrymandering). Are compatible with vote-by-mail elections. The League of Women Voters of Oregon does not believe that plurality voting is the best method for promoting democratic choice in all circumstances. For single-winner systems, the League supports ranked-choice voting; we do not support range or approval voting. The League of Women Voters of Oregon supports election systems that elect policy-making bodies–legislatures, councils, commissions, and boards–that proportionally reflect the people they represent. We support systems that promote stable government, but we do not support systems that protect the two-party system. The League of Women Voters of Oregon supports enabling legislation to allow local jurisdictions to explore alternative election methods. If an alternative election method is adopted, then funding for startup and voter education should be available. The League of Women Voters of Oregon does not support nonpartisan elections for state legislators. (Previous position) Adopted 2009 The League of Women Voters of Oregon believes that any election method should be evaluated on its ability to: Promote voter participation. Be simple and easy for voters to understand. Be verifiable and auditable. Promote access to voting. Promote competitive elections. Prevent political manipulation. Be compatible with vote-by-mail elections. The League supports enabling legislation to allow local jurisdictions to explore alternative election methods, e.g. instant runoff or fusion voting. If a local jurisdiction adopts an alternative election method, that jurisdiction should bear the costs of startup and voter education. Only after experience and evaluation at the local level should the state consider alternative election methods for statewide adoption. The League does not support nonpartisan elections for state legislators. Election Methods Study Update Election Methods Study Update , PDF, 52 pages Positions From Other Leagues – Election Methods Update (7 pgs; pdf) 2008 – Election Methods Executive Summary (3 pgs; pdf) Previous Next

Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 3/4 Climate Emergency Team Coordinator: Claudia Keith Coordinator: Claudia Keith Efficient and Resilient Buildings: vacant Energy Policy: Claudia Keith Environmental Justice: vacant Natural Climate Solution Forestry: Josie Koehne Agriculture: vacant Community Resilience & Emergency Management: see Governance LR: Rebecca Gladstone Transportation: see NR LR Joint Ways and Means - Budgets, Lawsuits, Green/Public Banking, Divestment/ESG: Claudia Keith Find additional Climate Change Advocacy volunteers in Natural Resources Jump to a topic: Climate Emergency - Mitigation and Adaptation Climate Litigation and Congressional Climate Resolution Climate News DEQ Deadlines Volunteers Needed Climate Emergency - Mitigation and Adaptation The session ended with a compromise as well as reasonable funding, especially in SB 1530 (>$21M) and end of session omnibus SB5701 (>125M) but no update to Greenhouse Gas Emission targets approved in 2007 nor improvement to Climate Change coordination and accountability across agencies. Find a detailed list of many Climate-related funding items here (file downloads). It’s unclear if Oregon has proactively managed access / opportunities to many federal funds available, including The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 . Additionally, considering last session, the governor may choose to veto any passed bills within executive branch statutes : “ The governor may sign the bill, veto it or let it become law without signature. The governor may also veto line items of appropriation bills, but may not veto an act referred for a vote of the people or an act initiated by the people.” However, these two bills do reflect Oregon among a few other states leading on these policy topics: 1) Coal Act: HB 4083 Requires Oregon Investment Council and Treasury to divest from Thermal Coal investments. Passed, waiting for the Speaker's signature. League Testimony . 2) Right to Repair: SB 1596 adopted. See discussion in NR Leg Report, League Testimony , passed, on its way to the governor. Other Climate Emergency Bills HB 4080 Enrolled . Off-Shore Wind: HB 4080 , League Testimony, passed. See discussion in NR Leg Report. (waiting Speaker signature) HB 4112 Clean Tech Leadership Bill. League Testimony . Funding is $20M. Died in J W&M. HB 4155 Infrastructure funding study bill- Rep Gamba and Sen Golden – in J W&Ms. Died in committee. HB 4102 Enrolled . Funding mechanism for Natural and Working Lands Fund (carbon sequestration) passed, on its way to the governor. No Fiscal. The bill related to EV rebates died in committee but DEQ did recently announce funding effective April 2024 . Climate Litigation and Congressional Climate Resolution Juliana v Gov: 3/1 Press Release from Our Children’s Trust: “ Department of Justice latest stonewalling in Juliana climate case denied; youth plaintiffs plan response to continued delays....…The Biden administration has two options. One: let America’s youth have access to their courts and exercise their constitutional rights. Or two: continue to undemocratically wield the power of the federal government to silence them, deny their rights and deny their access to justice. This administration and this DOJ are not using these extreme tactics in any other case in the nation. They owe America’s youth justice. They can and must stop this abuse of process being wielded by the DO J.” February 2024 Updates to the Climate Case Charts | Columbia University Sabin Center for Climate Change Law, Oregon Cases – 73 as of Feb 2024 Congressional Children’s Fundamental Rights and Climate Recovery Resolution: LWVUS’ Lobby Corps is currently having targeted Hill meetings on the Children’s Fundamental Rights and Climate Recovery Resolution to continue bipartisan conversations about the climate crisis and resolution and to maintain League visibility on this vital issue federally. LWVUS re-endorsed the resolution upon its reintroduction and maintains a related Action Alert on the website, asking folks to contact their Members of Congress. Climate News State of the Union: Biden's climate assignment – POLITICO, Environmental Groups Decry SEC’s Climate Disclosure Rule as Too Weak – Bloomberg, Nearly Half the States Sue E.P.A. Over New Limits on Deadly Pollution - The New York Times, Amid record high energy demand, America is running out of electricity - The Washington Post, The surge in AI is straining the U.S. power grid | fast company, The world is not moving fast enough on climate change — social sciences can help explain why | The Conversation. A Superfund for climate? These states are pushing for it. - E&E News by POLITICO, No More One-Size-Fits-All Approach to State Climate Targets – RMI, Europe is not prepared for rapidly growing climate risks | EEA, The worst wildfire in Texas' history has a complex link with climate change | BBC, Oregon court rejects cities’ request to toss climate rules – OPB, Oil Trains Pose Potential Hazard to Central Oregon | Central-Oregon-daily | centraloregondaily.com , Legislature passes bill to rid Oregon’s Public Employee Retirement System of coal investments • Oregon Capital Chronicle, Oregon forester approves controversial habitat conservation plan for state lands - OPB DEQ Deadline Department of Environmental Quality : Climate Pollution Reduction Planning Grant : Action on Climate Change: State of Oregon Resilience Hubs and Networks Grant- info sessions Two Oregon Department of Human Services information sessions are available to answer questions about the grant and application, and to talk about the rules before they are final: March 12, 2024 from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. - Join the March 12 meeting To call in (audio only): +1 971-277-2343, ID: 334 941 998. A February 29 meeting recording is available. Climate Emergency - Volunteers Needed Please consider joining the Climate Emergency portfolio team; we lack volunteers in these critical policy areas: • Natural Climate Solutions, specifically Oregon Dept of Agriculture (ODA) • Climate Related Lawsuits/Our Children’s Trust • Public Health Climate Adaptation (OHA) • Regional Solutions / Infrastructure (with NR team • State Procurement Practices (DAS: Dept. of Admin. Services • CE Portfolio State Agency and Commission Budgets • Climate Migration • Oregon Treasury: ESG investing/Fossil Fuel divestment We collaborate with LWVOR Natural Resource Action Committee members on many Climate Change mitigation and adaptation policy topics. Volunteers are needed: Training for Legislative and State Agency advocacy processes is available. Please contact lwvor@lwvor.org if you have any questions or wish to become involved with Climate Emergency issues.

Statewide Ranked Choice Voting Messaging & Media Training Statewide Ranked Choice Voting Messaging & Media Training League members around the state joined Oregon Ranked Choice Voting Communications Director, Caroline Phillips, on July 23rd to learn about the upcoming statewide ranked choice voting ballot measure that will be on everyone’s ballot this November. LWVOR supports a ‘yes’ vote. In this virtual training for League members, we learned about the measure, how to talk about ranked choice voting with your local community, and tips on navigating conversations with friends, family, and the media. Here are some helpful resources mentioned or featured during the meeting: Caroline Phillips' presentation, Statewide Ranked Choice Voting Messaging & Media Training Personal Story Exercise Tough Questions Exercise Oregon RCV website: https://www.oregonrcv.org/ RSVP for our campaign kickoff on August 7th Statewide RCV Flyer (PDF) Thank you to everyone who joined us for the event! Please reach us at lwvor@lwvor.org with any questions. Council 2024 Workbook Here are links for the two worksheets we’re using if we have time today: Personal Story Exercise: https://tinyurl.com/cncjfd3k Tough Questions Exercise: https://tinyurl.com/3fxbjy4v Council 2024 Workbook