Search Results

Back to Legislative Report Revenue Legislative Report - Week of October 13 Revenue Team Coordinator: Peggy Lynch Please see Governance Overview here . Jump to a topic: Revenue Updates Revenue Updates By Peggy Lynch The legislature received the Aug. 27th Revenue Forecast by the Office of Economic Analysis and a Revenue Summary from the Legislative Revenue Office. Bottom line: The revenue forecasted in May is now down due to many factors, including federal actions. It is expected to continue to decrease unless federal actions around tariffs and budgets change. The personal kicker has also reduced to $1,410.4 million—to show as a credit on your 2025 Oregon taxes. Final calculations on the kicker will be done by November. Federal actions may mean that Oregon will likely bring in fewer tax dollars, spend more money on administrative tasks and receive billions less in federal funding. Per an Oct. 7 Town Hall by Rep. Owens, as of now, legislators will need to address what is a $915 million shortfall. Agencies are being asked to provide a 5% cut to their budgets. These budgets will go before each Ways and Means Subcommittee during the short session. This means people need to be engaging to help agencies when choosing their cuts list. Rep. Gomberg provided some concerning information about the potential loss of federal funding here in Oregon: Thrown into uncertainty was the Oregon Health Plan. State figures show 33.5% of Oregonians are on the state’s Medicaid program. About 14% of Oregon’s annual education budget comes from the federal government, amounting to more than $1 billion each year. And 17,500 preschool children are enrolled in Head Start . A March 28 th press release from Senate President Wagner shared more data on federal losses. Planning for 2026: The co-chairs left unspent about 22% of general obligation bond capacity and 15% of lottery revenue bonds, which theoretically leaves some flexibility for lawmakers to make investments in next year’s short session. However, any reduction in General Fund and/or Lottery Funds will mean this capacity will need to be adjusted down. During Interim Legislative Days, many legislative committees provided information on both the revenue and costs side of H.R.1., also known as “The Big Beautiful Bill” passed by Congress. Both Revenue Committees heard the revenue impacts to Oregon because of our rolling connection to the federal tax code. A tax disconnect bill passed the Oregon House but not the Senate in 2025. Currently, Oregon tax code mirrors the federal code, so if something is tax exempt at the federal level, it is at the state level as well. Expect a conversation around the loss of revenue and the additional costs Oregon might incur due to changes in federal programs. It IS possible to target disconnect provisions, and that may be politically easier than a full disconnect. It MAY be the topic for another Special Session before the 2026 session. Because any bill that “raises revenue” cannot have an Emergency Clause, it would not take effect for 90 days after passage to allow for a public referral/referendum so a Special Session on this matter is not likely. The Legislature COULD delay the April 15 filing date should they decide to address the disconnect in the 2026 session. They have taken that action in the past. The next Revenue Forecast is Nov. 19. We know that both the Legislative Revenue Office and Legislative Fiscal Office are having discussions with legislators in anticipation of further revenue reductions. Pay attention to both General Funds and Lottery Funds since natural resource agencies also rely heavily on Lottery Funds. Oregon is better suited to address a significant downturn in the economy than the last major downturn because of Oregon’s Rainy Day and Education Stability Funds. But there are criteria that must be addressed in order to access those funds. On top of all that, Congress was unable to agree on funding the federal government for the Oct. 2025-Sept. 2026 fiscal year. Jefferson Public Radio did a good job of covering potential consequences to Oregon. As of Oct. 7 th , the shutdown continues. Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Climate Emergency , Governance , Natural Resources , and Social Policy report sections.

Back to Legislative Report Education Legislative Report - Week of 6/26 Education Update By Anne Nesse Budgets for Early Childhood Education, ‘Child Tax Credit Bill’, K-12 biennial budget, Birth to Grade 12 Educational Literacy Bill, make historical investments in 2023. The following paragraphs are explanations Bills the League has been interested in and supporting throughout the session, headed toward passage into law the week of June 20-25, now that a quorum exists in the Senate: A number of legislators from the Joint Ways and Means Committee that approved HB 3198-B ,the Literacy Bill for passage, June 20, stressed that continuous follow up by our legislative body was necessary for the effectiveness of any statewide program like this. ‘This Early Literacy for Success Bill is just the beginning of a hopefully successful effort to teach reading that is proven to be successful for all students, designed for working with all young peoples’ ages, abilities, and backgrounds.’ The League submitted written support for this Bill on April 3, in House Education. A Capitol Chronicle article here gives you examples of districts in our state that may be presently using unapproved methods of reading instruction. The large budget requested for this program ($140M), reflected the fact that any new statewide standards will have difficulties with implementation, if we do not have enough, or sufficiently trained staff. This Bill passed in the Senate on 6/25, funded with a lesser amount of $90M. The ‘Child Tax Credit Bill’, HB 3235-B , passed in the Senate on 6/25, will help somewhat to relieve childhood poverty in our state. The amount of the refundable tax credit and income limits were reduced from the original Bill. This Bill in its original form was supported by the League in written and oral testimony on February 27. The Joint Committee on Tax Expenditures unanimously passed the scaled down version of this Bill last Tuesday, June 20, establishing a $1,000 tax credit per year, for those children and families living in severe poverty, at an approximate cost of $37.5M. HB 2656-B sponsored by Rep. Nathanson, passed in the Senate 6/22, and was of interest to the League. The Bill allows an opt-out statewide survey of student answers to critical questions, that can help legislators and administrators make better decisions in the future, and allocate funds where needed.The survey will be administered yearly throughout the state, and is designed ‘to improve the health and well-being of all students in this state and to help them succeed.’ SB 283-B , passed in the Senate 6/23. It is an omnibus Bill, beginning to address the workforce shortages in public education, that are happening everywhere in the nation. The League was represented on one committee for this Bill. This Bill begins to establish a statewide data system on the educational workforce. It directs Teacher Standards and Practices Commission to develop a plan to establish and maintain a statewide portal for jobs in education. It includes bargaining agreements, for pay for planning time, and lunch periods. It requires each public education provider to encourage members of educational workforce to participate in surveys related to the educational workforce. It prescribes increased pay requirements, for additional percentage of wage to licensed educators and classified school employees who provide significant special education support. It directs DOE to establish and maintain Safe School Culture Grant program to develop network of instructors certified in nonviolent crisis intervention methods. It establishes just cause requirement for classified school employees related to dismissal, demotion and discipline. It establishes Task Force on Substitute Teachers. The total biennial State School Fund Budget was raised to an historic $10.2 Billion, as reported in our last newsletter. And paired with other revenues to a total of $15.3 Billion, an overall 12.3% increase. Oregon moved closer to giving free school breakfasts and lunches for all students, to help childhood hunger, increase learning, and avoid discrimination. This concept was something the League’s action team was supportive of during the session. The Oregon Food Bank was coordinating this effort, and this was announced in a recent press release here . SB 91-B , passed in the Senate on 6/23. It helps to pay families who care for highly disabled children at home, who cannot be educated at school, utilizing Federal matching funds. A Capitol Chronicle article explains the legislative support for this Bill here . SB 531-A , tried to establish a Summer and After-School Learning and Enrichment Grant Program, similar to what was designed to work during school closures during Covid. This directed DOE to administer a grant program. Money would come from the General Fund, but this Bill did not succeed in passage. We are not currently sure whether, or how, this grant program might be included into the total budget of this summer or the next school year, in relation to the Literacy Bill? Three Bills that the League testified on this session involving education, did not make it past their first hearing: SB 854 required a curriculum to be designed statewide, concerning climate change, adaptable to grades K-12, within all subject areas, with input from DOE, DEQ, OHA, and interested stakeholders within each school district. This received front page news in the Oregonian, as well as a large amount of positive testimony from students and teachers. However, because it was interpreted to be mandatory, this will have to wait until possibly several pilot projects, or a study Bill is designed? HB 2601 , required our State Treasurer to exit from certain carbon-intensive investments, subject to fiduciary duties. to develop a plan to protect state investments from risks related to climate change, and to issue periodic reports on actual and planned progress towards completion of the duties imposed under the Act. Divest Oregon was the Coalition that presented much of the testimony, as well as a thorough data report from Rep. Pham and Sen. Golden. The League’s testimony also emphasized the non-partisanship of this Bill. HB 2750 , prohibited charging of fees as a condition of participating in interscholastic activities (including requiring participation in fundraising activities). It authorized use of moneys in Statewide Education Initiatives Account for costs incurred by school districts and public charter schools as result of this prohibition. The League’s written and oral testimony emphasized this could allow for more types of interscholastic activities in public school, allowing for increased equity in education. Here is a summary of what Early Childhood Education received in the budget bill from the Joint Ways and Means Committee: $55 M for Facilities $23 M for Employment related Day Care $10 M for Birth to 5 Literacy Programs $18.6 M for Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Educatio Here is a summary of what was included in the final funding Bill SB 5506-1 the “Christmas Tree Bill” for education: Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC): $5 M for technical assistance $1.7 M for Imagination Library Program Oregon Department of Education: 42.4 M Lottery $600,000 to replace state IT system $5 M Black Studies Success Plan $1.5 M for migrant/multilingual instruction team $100 M School Capital Improvement Matching funds $15 M for connecting Oregon Schools broadband grants Higher Education Coordinating Commission: $20 M Oregon Conservation Corps OSU, $250,000 Climate Service After School Care By Katie Riley SB 531 - Summer and After School Care – This bill would have provided funding for school-age kids this summer. Last year a similar bill provided $50 million and served thousands of low-income kids. This year’s bill received a hearing and was referred to W&Ms, however, it did not get assigned to a W&Ms subcommittee. It never had a work session or a funding recommendation. Schools were given extra money for summer school and could spend some of that money for extended care, depending on the school district. SB 858 – Children’s Service Districts – The bill would have provided citizens with the ability to gather signatures to have local ballot measures to form children’s service districts. A public hearing was held in Senate Finance and Revenue, but a work session was never scheduled. The bill was opposed by the League of Oregon Cities (mayors) and the Association of Oregon Counties.

Back to All Legislative Reports Social Policy Legislative Report - Week of 2/3 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 Jump to topic: After School and Child Care Behavioral Health Education Healthcare Housing Reproductive Rights DEIJ After School and Child Care By Katie Riley The final report for the 2024's session report on HB 4082 includes a request of $50 million per year for the biennium ($100 million total). It is not clear how that fits with the Governor's budget proposal of $78.5 million for 2025 summer learning (summer school). The summer funding includes partnerships with community partners for care after summer school scheduled periods. No funding was recommended by the HB 4082 task force or the Governor for afterschool programs. SB 896 has been introduced to provide grants for afterschool and summer programs. It will be heard in the Senate Education Committee on Monday, February 3. It does not have a proposed budget amount attached to the bill. Behavioral Health By Stephanie Aller SB 538 will have a public hearing before the Senate Committee on Health Care on February 4. The bill would require the Oregon Department of Human Services to pay parents for attendant care services for minor children with developmental disabilities who have high behavioral health or medical needs. HB 2596 , the School Psychologist Interstate Licensure Compact bill, will have a public hearing before the House Committee on Education on February 3. Proponents of the bill believe it would increase access to school psychological services by streamlining the licensure process for school psychologists coming from other states. Education By Jean Pierce Over 65% of the education budget comes from general funds. It represents 17% of the state’s total fund budget and 40% of their general fund/lottery fund budget. Approximately $2M for the biennium comes from federal funding. This includes block grants (e.g. for childcare development), title funds, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Every Student Succeeds Act funding, and specialty grants. The budget breakdown is as follows: 51% - State school fund 25% - Department of Education (includes student nutrition, special education, STEM programming, Career and Technical Education, etc.) 17% - Higher Education 7% - Department of Early Learning and Care Less than 1% - Teacher Standards and Practices Commission Pre-K – 12 Education LWVOR submitted testimony in support of HB2811 , which would provide funding for the Imagination Library of Oregon. The premise is that children from ages 0 to 5 receive an age- appropriate book each month at absolutely no cost to their parents. This program is made possible through the largesse of the Dolly Parton Foundation, which provides 50% of the funding. Higher Education The House higher education committee heard testimony that the number one concern of faculty and staff is the need for stable, dedicated public funding for higher education. Oregon ranks 44th in the nation in per Full Time Equivalency funding for four-year public institutions. Because of the low level of state funding for higher education, in-state tuition and fees for four-year institutions in Oregon are the 12th highest in the nation, and for 2-year institutions Oregon ranks 5th in the nation. Related to the high cost of tuition and fees, is the fact that students need help meeting basic needs of food, housing, transportation, and child care. A 2023 survey of Portland Community College students revealed that 43% were facing food insecurity and 56% were dealing with housing insecurity. (See also the Housing Legislative Report) In addition, a single textbook can cost up to $600, so a 2018 survey of 21,000 students revealed that over 64% of them had not purchased at least one textbook because of the costs. LWVOR has submitted testimony for HB2550 which would make Oregon Promise Grants available to a broader range of community college students. Another concern is that Oregon is the only west coast state where public records laws do not apply to public university foundations. Finally, serious concerns were expressed that approximately 70% of all higher education classes in Oregon are taught by temporary and part-time faculty. LWVOR has plans to submit testimony for · HB3182 , which would provide funding for grants to programs meeting students’ basic needs for housing (Hearing Feb. 13) · HB3183 , which would provide funding to the Open Education Resources program, which makes textbooks affordable. (Hearing Feb. 13) Healthcare By Christa Danielson LWVOR is tracking HB 3225 -This bill is the culmination of multiple work groups and work done within Representative Bowman’s office to ensure that decisions about patients’ medical care are not decided by corporations. The new bill specifies the qualifications for the MD who is among the majority of shareholders or directors of a professional corporation organized for the purpose of practicing medicine. The MD needs to live in Oregon, be actively involved in the corporation and licensed to practice medicine in the state of Oregon. Housing By Nancy Donovan and Debbie Aiona The PSU Homelessness Research & Action Collaborative presented information to the Senate Committee on Housing and Development in January. They reported that the estimated number of people experiencing homelessness, including sheltered, unsheltered, and doubled-up, was 43,670 in 2022. People of color often experience disproportionately higher rates of homelessness than their percentage in the general population. In 2023–24, 22,072 students across Oregon experienced some form of homelessness (unsheltered, sheltered, or doubled-up). At four percent of the student population, it is the highest recorded rate in Oregon to date. Of those, 2,980 were unsheltered and 2,438 were sheltered. (See also the Higher Education Legislative Report) The House Committee on Housing and Homelessness heard an agency overview from Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS). Homelessness in 2023 is the worst it has been since the Great Depression. Eviction filings in 2023 are at the highest level since 2011. The OHCS plans for preservation of existing affordable housing include financing the purchase of publicly-supported housing with expiring affordability contracts and acquisition and rehab of manufactured home parks that will be owned by non-profits and resident-owned cooperatives. Between Jan. 1, 2023, and Oct. 31, 2024, OHCS funding rehoused 3,257 households, prevented 17,569 households from becoming homeless, and funded 6,147 beds across 136 shelters. LWVOR is a member of the Oregon Housing Alliance that includes nearly 100 organizations across the state. We take action to shape policy, submit testimony for upcoming hearings on bills that promote affordable housing, prevent homelessness, and expand homeownership opportunities for all Oregonians. The Housing Alliance, with member input, recently issued its priorities for the 2025 legislative session. Here are the highlights: Build and preserve affordable housing · New production of affordable rental homes: LIFT program plus permanent supportive housing, $685M in general obligation bonds · Preservation and operations support for existing affordable rental housing: $260M in lottery-backed and/or general obligation bonds · Manufactured housing park preservation: $25M in lottery-backed bonds · Permanent supportive housing operations and resident services: $11M in general funds · Governor’s housing infrastructure program: $100M in lottery bonds Homelessness prevention and response · Emergency rent assistance: $109M in general funds · Homelessness prevention services: $63.5M in general funds · Shelter operations and housing navigation: $217M in general funds · Strengthen notice requirements and supports for residents of expiring affordable housing · SB 722 : Reduce the new-construction exemption from rent stabilization from 15 years to 7 years; prohibit landlords’ use of price-fixing algorithms to set rents Expand access to affordable homeownership · Improve access to fair-market mortgages for immigrant Oregonians Unlocking Homeownership Agenda · Build new homes for homeownership (LIFT program): $100M in general obligation bonds · Homeownership Development Incubator Program: $50M in general funds · Down payment assistance: $45M in general funds · Individual Development Accounts (IDAs): $20M Reproductive Rights By Trish Garner Abortion-related bills which are being proposed this term in the legislature reflect a change in approach from straight-out abortion bans to more complex models. There are nearly identical House and Senate “Born-Alive Infants Protection Act” bills ( HB 2372 , SB 384 ) which essentially require practitioners to exercise the same degree of care to any child born of the same gestational age and if this standard is not met, a health care practitioner present at the time of the birth or a health clinic employee shall “immediately” report it to law enforcement. There are a number of additional provisions which contain some rather nuanced differences between the bills, including, for example, different provisions regarding civil liability. The Senate bill says a violation of the act can't be charged against a person whose pregnancy was terminated, but the House bill does not provide this protection . HB 2381 doesn’t technically ban or limit abortions but rather requires OHA to set up a Pregnancy Launch Program and accompanying staffed hotline that will encourage “healthy” childbirth, support childbirth as an alternative to abortion, promote family formation, and more. All persons seeking abortion services will be automatically connected to services provided through the Pregnancy Launch Program. HB 3249 and SB 66 are identical and are directly aimed at abortions. At the same time they also adopt a different approach than in times past and impose a duty on health care providers to determine gestational age. Unless it’s a medical emergency, abortion is prohibited unless the provider determines the unborn child is less than 15 weeks, the pregnant person presents a medical emergency or the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest. Interestingly, providers must supply OHA with detailed data regarding an abortion procedure, and if they fail to do so can be sued by the pregnant person or the person responsible for fertilization. HB 3330 not only deals with abortion but also gender-affirming treatment. It prohibits employers from discriminating against employees who object to abortion, fetal transplants, gender-affirming treatment or assisted suicide. In a related vein- SB 918 provides that school curricula would be required to include information about human development from conception to birth. DEIJ HB 2439 seeks to remove the word “gender identity” from statutes.

The Oregon Student Mock Election is open to all students and educators. Learn more. / Youth / Girl Scouts / ✨ LWVOR and the Girl Scouts of Oregon and Southwest Washington are collaborating to promote leadership and democracy! Learning to be a leader at the ballot box and in our communities Excitement is brewing with our new national partnership between Girl Scouts and the League of Women Voters . The Girl Scouts of Oregon and Southwest Washington and LWVOR are collaborating to promote leadership and democracy. Together we will build relationships with Girl Scouts who can earn Citizen and Democracy badges and much more! Connect Leagues and Girl Scouts Girl Scouts troop leaders can connect with LWVOR resources here. Local Leagues and Units can appoint a Girl Scout liaison to receive communications from Voter Girl. Together we can develop creative, meaningful and fun avenues for Girl Scouts connections! Request Information Here! Printable Flyer ✨Contact Us If your League or Girl Scout troop wants to get involved, please contact the LWVOR Girl Scouts-Voter Girl Coordinator: votergirl [@] lwvor.org Sign Up For Email We Need Your Support Today! Donate Your donation empowers voters and defends democracy.

Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 2/20 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 Climate Emergency Priorities Other CE Bills Clean Energy Oregon Economic Analysis Oregon Treasury Climate Related Lawsuits: Oregon and… Climate Emergency Priorities By Claudia Keith The League has identified six priority CE policy and budget topics. Find in previous LR reports additional background on each priority. Following are updates on those six topics: 1. Natural and Working Lands : Establishes Natural and Working Lands (NWL) Fund, carbon sequestration opportunities…: Natural Climate Solutions SB 530 . Public Hearing was 2/15/23 in SEN E&E . The League provided supportive testimony . Read Oregon Chapter American Planning Association testimony . Sen Dembrow and OGWC Chair MacDonald testified . Here are the meeting materials . There is IRA federal funding for climate-smart agriculture. 2. Resilient Buildings (RB): Refer to the adopted Legislative Joint Task Force on Resilient Efficient Buildings (REB) Dec 13 Report . The League is an active RB coalition partner. BR campaign guiding principles . SB 868 , 869 , 870 and 871 were posted 2/9. They seem to be placeholders, watch for amendments. Chief sponsors are Senator LIEBER, Representative MARSH. 3. Environmental Justice (EJ): 2023 Leg bills. The League joined the Worker Advocate Coalition on 2/13 and SB 593 is one of a number of bills the League will follow and support. The ‘Right to Refuse‘ dangerous work bill LC has not been posted yet. 4. Oregon Climate Action Commission (currently Oregon Global Warming Commission): Roadmap , SB 522 , will change "Oregon Global Warming Commission" to "Oregon Climate Action Commission" and modify membership and duties of commission and state greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets/goals. League Testimony . Find more about this Bill in Clean Energy LR below. 5. Other Governor Climate / Carbon Policy Topics: See 20-04 Executive Order topics . This area includes other GHG emission mitigation/reductions and new clean renewable energy (DOE), OHA public health, and ODOT (Dept of Transportation) policy and funding bills. 6. CE related total 2023-2025 biennium budget: The governor’s budget * was published Jan 31; Kotek’s budget priorities . A main funding problem concerns how the favorable ending current period balance, estimated to be >$765M, can be used. It will take a 3/5 vote to pass this proposed change. It’s unclear at this time if any Climate related new programs will be funded and many are related to Federal IRA matching funds. Read the 2/22 Oregon Economic and Revenue Forecast committee meeting materials ; a moderate recession is still forecast, starting in 2024. The next forecast will be mid-May. Other CE Bills - Supporting By Claudia Keith House Committee On Emergency Management, General Government, and Veterans Feb 16 2023 Hearing includes these climate related bills with League testimony. HB 2601 Oregon FF Divestment: The League provided supportive testimony for Fossil Fuel (FF) Divestment: … Requires State Treasurer to address the urgency and risk associated with Fossil Fuel energy investments. Chief Sponsors: Rep Pham K, Senator Golden, Rep Gamba. HB 2763 Create a State public bank Task Force, Rep Gamba, Sen Golden, Rep Walters. The League provided testimony . Other CE Bills – May Support By Claudia Keith The League may support or just follow these bills. This is a preliminary list; Natural Working Lands: See Rep Pham’s urban forestry bill, HB 3016 , Rep Holvey’s severance tax bill, HB 3025 to replace the harvest tax, and ODF’s Regular Harvest tax bill, HB 2087 . SB 88 climate smart Ag increases net carbon sequestration and storage in natural and working lands. Requested: Senate Interim Committee on Natural Resources and Wildfire Recovery. See Keep Oregon Cool, Natural Working Lands. Green Infrastructure: HB 3016 community green infrastructure, Rep Pham K, Senator Dembrow, Rep Gamba. Public & Green Banking: SB501 Bank of the state of Oregon Sen Golden. Interstate 5 Bridge Legislation: Interstate Bridge Replacement Program (IBRP) factsheet ODOT and WDOT . 12 Things the Oregon Legislature Should Know About IBRP - Just Crossing Alliance. It is likely policy and or just funding bills will be heard and likely moved by this IBRP Legislative Joint Committee . The goal: ‘Replacing the aging Interstate Bridge with a modern, earthquake resilient, multimodal structure is a high priority for Oregon and Washington…. ‘. Clean Energy By Kathy Moyd  SB 522 Oregon Global Warming Commission SB 522 changes the name of "Oregon Global Warming Commission" to "Oregon Climate Action Commission." It modifies membership and duties of commission and the state greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals. It directs the state agencies to report to the commission on progress toward achieving greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals The League provided both written and verbal Testimony . Clean Buildings By Arlene Sherrett Two bills will be up for hearings in the House Climate, Energy and Environment Committee this week. Both HB 3166 and HB 3056 are energy efficiency bills. HB 3166 creates a whole-home energy savings program under the Housing and Community Service Department to give rebates to homeowners and landlords for installing various electric energy high-efficiency devices. Currently the bill is for electric upgrades only, but the propane industry is asking for the bill to be amended to include all high-efficiency options. HB 3056 extends funding from an earlier bill SB 1536 (2022) for a heat pump grant and rebate program. Fifty percent of funding is earmarked for low and moderate income households. The new funding end date will be January 2, 2026. Resilient Buildings (RB): Refer to the adopted Legislative Joint Task Force on Resilient Efficient Buildings (REB) Dec 13 Report . The League is an active RB coalition partner. RB campaign guiding principles . SB 868 , 869 , 870 and 871 were posted 2/9. They seem to be placeholders, and nothing new has been added since last week. House CE&E Committee Updates By Greg Martin Feb 20 2023 Committee Meetings House C&E moved its first bill of the session to the floor with a do-pass recommendation: HB 3161 , a "cleanup" bill for PUC, voted unanimously and without discussion. Chair Marsh said the committee may designate the next such bill, HB 3160, for the consent agenda. Heard oral testimony on HB 2215 , the pro-nuclear bill. I counted 15 opponents and no supporters. A witness from NCSL said four states have repealed their restrictions on nuclear development since 2016. Opponents argued that SMR development is not really "carbon free," that supporters have not addressed the waste issue, much less resolved it, and that the risk to the state of making the wrong economic decision could be catastrophic in terms of stranded costs. HB 2700 would extend zero-emission and electric vehicle rebates to electric tractors and repowered tractors. Proponents including Rep. Neron said more farm vehicles need to go electric for the state to meet its carbon reduction goals, and incentives are needed to bring change, with some sideboards to ensure it doesn't just benefit "boutique" farmers. One rural supporter reported a favorable experience with a 25-hp electric tractor her family bought for $34K. The committee's rural members seemed favorable but noted that electric versions of "real tractors" (75+ hp) can cost over $100K so the bill's rebate of up to $2,500 per tractor would not offer much incentive. Feb 13 2023 HB 2396-1 (directs EQC to establish and implement an indirect source review program): The committee heard testimony on the -1 which seemed to have been posted too recently for some members' review; Rep. Owens demanded more time to study technical details with input from air quality experts. Proponents (Reps. Dexter, Tranh et al.) noted EQC already has authority to regulate indirect sources; the bill would require EQC to do so per specified definitions and methodology. Portland area supporters stressed the disproportionate impact of diesel emissions on BIPOC communities. Rep. Osborne challenged this, asking where they got their supporting data about race. He wondered whether the bill isn’t targeting “low-lying fruit” and won’t do much to address major pollution sources. OBI and other opponents predicted lengthy litigation, saying the bill would set state standards for mobile source emissions preempting EPA standards, contrary to federal law. Committee members wondered whether LC had considered this in drafting the amendment. Opponents also noted that EQC unanimously rejected this rulemaking in 2020. Seems like this bill will face a long hard pull. HB 3158 (Clean Diesel Engine Taxes): Rep. Nosse noted that diesel equipment retrofit rules are on the books, and said user taxes in this bill will raise sustained revenue to enable equipment users to comply. He said funds from the VW settlement must be spent quickly and anyway aren't sufficient to address the problem. Rep. Boshart Davis opposed, saying diesel replacement is happening “organically” and we don’t need new taxes to incentivize it. Chair Marsh halted the parade of pro and con witnesses at 4:30 with many more waiting to testify, and carried over the hearing to a future date to be announced. She also postponed the hearing on HB 3003 (tax credits for utilities that buy electricity generated from western juniper biomass). Transportation ODOT Seeks Input on the NEVI Program By Greg Martin More EV fast chargers are coming to Oregon, by way of $65 million in funding through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, created by the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. ODOT will partner with private contractors to install at least 65 public fast charging stations along Oregon’s major highways and interstates over the next five years, beginning with I-205, I-5 south of Eugene, and U.S. 97 in 2023-24. ODOT is hosting community meetings to gather public input and answer questions about the program. Meetings began in Portland and Oregon City on Feb. 21 and will continue through March 1 in Cottage Grove, Canyonville, Medford, LaPine, Klamath Falls, Moro, and Madras. The new charging stations will be sited about every 50 miles and will feature four 150 kw/hour chargers per station. Per the Justice40 initiative, 40 percent of NEVI program benefits must go to disadvantaged communities. ODOT is finalizing its contracting standards with the goal of releasing the RFP this summer and awarding contracts this fall. Site design and construction of the Phase 1 stations will begin in 2024. ODOT wants to hear what is important to you when thinking about EV fast charging locations along the Phase 1 corridors. Visit ODOT’s “Online Open House” through March 3 to learn more about NEVI and take a survey associated with the interstate or highway that is most relevant to you. Oregon Economic Analysis By Claudia Keith The Oregon Economic and Revenue Forecast was released Feb 22. The Oregon Office of Economic Analysis has continued to ignore the recommended SEC Climate Risk disclosure rule. SEC Plans to Finalize | Reuters. Republicans seek records on SEC climate disclosure proposal | CNBC. Preparing for climate disclosure in the largest capital market | Greenbiz. Republicans demand answers from SEC over climate disclosure proposal | Pensions & Investments See supportive SEC disclosure LWVOR-initiated LWVUS Testimony , June 2022. Oregon Treasury By Claudia Keith It is unclear how Oregon Treasury / Treasurer Tobias will assist with addressing the $27B Federal funds, which are contingent on formation of an Oregon Green Bank. New York, California, and Connecticut Green Bank; some are a function of the State Treasury. Related News: EPA climate fund may not be a green bank after all - E&E News. Oregon Bond rating continues to be above average. It's concerning to the League how these major issues will affect Oregon’s economy. Climate Related Lawsuits: Oregon and… By Claudia Keith Numerous lawsuits are challenging Oregon’s DEQ CPP regulations. Here is one example of how to track them. Basically, there are a number of active state and federal lawsuits , (Feb 2023 update) some of which could assist in meeting Oregon's Net Zero GHG Emissions before 2050 targets and other lawsuits, which challenge current Oregon DEQ CPP policy, which would limit the use of fossil fuels, including diesel, natural gas, and propane over time. Another source: Columbia University Law - Sabin Climate DB lists 60 lawsuits with OREGON mentioned. Senate poised to revive probe of Big Oil climate claims - E&E News. ESG Litigation Heats Up in Marketing, Climate Pollution , and DEI | Bloomberg Law. Oregon and PNW News: Advocates for Fossil Fuel Divestment Push Treasury for Changes | Willamette Weekly. Oregon lawmakers, environmentalists want state pension fund divested of fossil fuels | Jefferson Public Radio. Feedback loops make climate action even more urgent, scientists say – ScienceDaily/OSU. 27 feedback loops could accelerate climate crisis, warn scientists | Env Journal. US Pokes The Sleeping Giant Of Wave Energy - CLEAN POWER US Pokes The Sleeping Giant Of Ocean Wave Energy - US banks on new PacWave South test site to nail down a piece of the global wave energy industry pie.| Clean Technica. Opponents of Eugene's natural gas ban want it on 2023 ballot|. Eugene Register Guard. Oregon lawmakers propose $200M housing and homelessness package | ERG. Northwest climate activists fight a new front in the movement to stop fossil fuels | Waging Nonviolence. Arizona, Utah lawmakers look to hamper clean energy development | Energy News Network. An All-Canadian EV, Solar Misinformation, Fossil Gag Order , Putin Losing His Energy War, and a Warm Ottawa Winter Shuts the World’s Longest Skateway|TheEnergyMix. National & Global Biden Weaves Climate Into Economy and Regulations With Two Key Picks - The New York Times. Geoengineering for Climate Change Is Big , Ambitious, and Needs Shared Rules| Foreign Policy. America's coastal cities are a hidden time bomb - The Atlantic. How misinformation about solar power hinders the fight against climate change : NPR. Biden gets a chance to redefine the World Bank role – POLITICO. Republicans in the US ‘battery belt’ embrace Biden’s climate spending | Renewable energy | The Guardian Volunteers Needed By Claudia Keith Request to Local Leagues; please let us know your climate, resilience, or sustainability advocacy actions. Please consider joining the CE portfolio team; we lack volunteers in these critical policy and law areas: Natural and Working lands, specifically 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 Oregon Treasury: ESG investing/Fossil Fuel divestment We collaborate with Natural Resource Action members on many Climate Change mitigation and adaptation policy topics. Volunteers are needed: The 2023 legislative session began Jan 17. If any area of Climate Emergency interests you, please contact Claudia Keith , CE Coordinator. Orientation to Legislative and State Agency advocacy processes is available.

Back to All Legislative Reports Natural Resources Legislative Report - Week of 5/15 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: Air Quality Climate Coastal Issues Elliott State Research Forest Land Use/Housing Radioactive Waste Recycling Toxics Urban/Rural Divide Water Wildfire Natural Resources By Peggy Lynch, Natural Resources Coordinator, and Team We’ve got money! The May 17 Revenue Forecast declared an additional $1.96 billion available for the 2023-25 session. And the crazy “kicker” is up to about $5.5 billion!! It could be about 50% of your 2023 Oregon taxes—shown up as a credit in 2024! Now we’ll see what the legislature does with all that money! We expect a package of climate bills and a water package. The League will advocate for the slew of bills in Ways and Means we supported earlier in session. Air Quality LWVOR joined with others in support of HB 3229 , to modify federal air quality (Title V) operating permit program fees. The bill sits in Ways and Means without recommendation. SB 488 A , relating to the Covanta medical waste incinerator, sits in Ways and Means. BUDGETS/REVENUE: Here it is: The May 17 Revenue Forecast . You can listen to the presentation here . $1.96 billion more to spend on Oregon’s needs! Here are the Governor’s spending requests . We’ll soon learn what our legislators decide as to their spending priorities. We hope that the bills listed in Ways and Means in this report will be among those gaining funding and we understand there will be packages for climate and water investments. The Oregon Center for Public Policy shared: “We estimate, based on Oregon Department of Revenue data, that the richest 100 Oregonians will get kicker rebates averaging more than $800,000.” State Economist Mark McMullen said rebates will come close to a record 50% of state tax liability (for 2023). Last week’s budgets were considered in Full Ways and Means on May 19. The Governor signed HB 5046 , to allow state agencies to continue to operate until Sept. 15 at current levels. This bill is usually done every biennium, but later in the session, as some budgets aren’t always finished until the last few days. This year, if the Senate Republicans don’t provide a quorum, the bill provides a short-term extension. SB 538 A , mentioned in last week’s report, would allow DOGAMI and other agencies to offer permittees the ability to use a credit card to pay fees and the agencies can charge for the processing costs charged by those card businesses. It passed out of committee on May 11 and is headed to the House floor. Climate By Claudia Keith and Team The Climate Emergency and Natural Resources sections of this Legislative Report overlap. We encourage you to read both sections. Coastal Issues By Christine Moffitt and Peggy Lynch HB 3382 moved to House Rules with the -7 amendment late in the evening of May 18. After many meetings and conversations, the League agreed to not oppose the -7 amendment to HB 3382 that limits the bill to ONLY the International Port of Coos Bay, places requirements around proof of financial viability and report on the number of jobs to be created to be submitted with any actual project application. Only the Port and tribes would be qualified to submit an application. We don’t support the bill, but the votes seemed to be there for a bill, so we worked to make it as narrow as we could. Any project application would be for a new Goal 16 exception and would go through the usual local land use processes. Also, all the other federal and state agency permits would be required for any process. On May 14, LWVOR issued an Action Alert to oppose the bill. As a result of ours and others who did the same, there were many opposition testimonies filed and a second public hearing was allowed on May 16 where more League members and others testified in opposition. The -7 amendment was negotiated on May 17 and was posted by noon on May 18 for the night’s work session in the Joint Committee on Transportation. The bill has been amended but was moved to House Rules without an explanation. The League will continue to monitor the bill. One additional amendment that would be appreciated is clarity that no fossil fuel projects would be allowed to be approved. (Remember Jordan Cove?) The -7s “save” the Yaquina and Astoria estuaries, but could do damage to the Coos Bay estuary, even though the amendment requires no net loss of important environmental values. A major expansion of the navigation channel can not help but do damage. If you want to listen to the sausage making, go to the 1 hour mark here. The Ocean Policy Advisory Council (OPAC) will hold a meeting on May 23 from 9am - 3pm at the Oregon Department of State Lands in Salem. Remote participation will also be available ( Zoom Registration Link ) Meeting materials and the draft agenda are forthcoming. Contact: Andy Lanier, Marine Affairs Coordinator @ Andy.Lanier@dlcd.oregon.gov . HB 2903 A , funding continuing work on marine reserves, is in Ways and Means. LWVOR supports . You might find this ODFW news release interesting about how the marine reserves program unlocks secrets of ocean temperatures and oxygen levels. This 10-year-old program now has support by a diverse set of interests in the coastal communities. Dept. of Environmental Quality (DEQ) The Environmental Quality Commission (EQC) met on May 18 and 19, meeting agenda . Staff reports are often valuable resources. A League member participated in the 2023 Water Quality Fee Rules Advisory Committee (RAC) as in past years to provide a “public” voice to the RAC. Here is the WQ Fee RAC Meeting Summary link - May 5, 2023 . The EQC delegated authority to approve this rulemaking for 2023 to DEQ Director Feldon on May 19. SB 835 A , as amended, would require DEQ to adopt rules to clarify when a single septic system can be used for both a primary residence and an ADU. It sits in W&Ms. LWVOR testimony concerns were addressed by the amendment. Dept. of State Lands HB 2238 originally filed to provide permission for robust rulemaking to increase fees for the removal/fill program is back! The bill was amended in the House to remove the fee increase and instead allows the Dept. of State Lands to get rid of personal property collected during cleanup of DSL-owned property after 30 days. A new amendment has been filed to bring back the original purpose of the bill. The League continues to support . The bill was amended and passed out of committee on May 17. It will need to go back to the House for “concurrence”—to agree with the Senate amendment. Elliott State Research Forest (ESRF) By Peggy Lynch SB 161 was amended and passed out of the House Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources and Water Committee. The amendment increased a deadline for work being done on the transfer of the Elliott to the new Authority to Dec. 31, 2023. The bill adjusts some timelines as provided by the Dept. of State Lands’ April 25 testimony . The League understands there is a request for some monies in the end-of-session bill to help the new ESRF Authority move forward the first 18 months of their existence since logging to provide funding will take time to plan and execute. Land Use/Housing By Peggy Lynch Unfortunately, there are a number of land use planning bills sitting in the Senate and House Rules Committees. Those committees are not subject to deadlines until the Leadership closes those committees so we wait and watch—holding our breath that these bills are not trade bait should the Republican Senators return to their chamber to vote before the end of session. SB 1096 would “expand development into farmland”, referred to Senate Rules. The bill, similar to SB 1051 which the League vigorously opposed and has died, is a topic of discussion. The bill continues the false narrative that simply adding land to urban growth boundaries will solve Oregon's housing crises. HB 3414 would create a new Housing Accountability and Production Office in DLCD and also includes a Section 2 related to processing of variances under certain circumstances. Variances are used to address exceptions to a code’s “clear and objective standards”. It is unclear how this provision will change a community’s control over residential development. The bill had a public hearing in House Rules where the Governor advocated for the -6 amendment while a number of cities advocated for the -5 amendment , but it was clear that more negotiations will occur, so we should look for yet another amendment. The League has concerns about the burden being placed on cities under the -6 amendment. Local governments need to provide findings to explain why they might want to deny the variance instead of the applicant proving the need for the variance. Your Oregon News has a good article on the cities’ concerns. Of note is mention of a -7 amendment that would deal with land supply advocated by the Homebuilders Association and the Oregon Realtors. No new news on SB 1087 , filed on behalf of a farm in Lane County where they want to add a “café” (with seating for 250-300 people) on their Exclusive Farm Use (EFU)-zoned property. The League opposes this overreach of our land use program. The bill is in Senate Rules. SB 70 A would allow housing on acreage in Malheur County. The League provided testimony in opposition on Feb. 8. On April 3, the bill was moved without passage recommendation to Senate Rules. LWVOR still opposes it. SB 1013 would allow a recreational vehicle to be sited on a rural property. It was amended by the -4 amendment and passed out of committee to the House floor on May 18. The League worked with the sponsor and Sen. Hayden to assure that, should a recreational vehicle be allowed, issues of sewage and clean drinking water would be addressed by the counties. Rep. Helm also stated that for the record in committee which the League appreciated. HB 3442 A to allow coastal communities to develop in hazard areas under certain conditions, passed to the Senate floor on May 10. The amended bill responded to League concerns on the original bill. HB 2983 A to help with manufactured housing and housing parks, is in Ways and Means. LWVOR supports . See also the Housing Report in the Social Policy section of this Legislative Report. Radioactive Waste By Shirley Weathers In accordance with the plan announced at the end of the April 24 meeting of the Rulemaking Advisory Committee (RAC) on Radioactive Waste, Oregon Department of Energy (ODOE) staff distributed on May 16, a second draft of what was designated as Part I of recommended rules for OAR 345-050 designed to implement SB 246 (2021). The deadline for RAC member input is June 15, after which ODOE staff will prepare materials for a report to EFSC for a July council meeting. It is expected that a public comment period on that segment of proposed rules will follow that meeting. Staff indicated in the transmittal email of May 16 that RAC members will be notified when a path forward for the more controversial “Part II” pathway exemption section of the rules is identified. Discussions and other activities related to the Waste Management proposal presented during the April 24 meeting will proceed and likely will include more meetings. A link to the agenda and the video of the final hour of the meeting are posted on the ODOE Rulemaking page for this RAC ; the PowerPoint presentation prepared by Waste Management outlining their alternate proposal and the video of the first half of the meeting will be posted soon, per ODOE staff. The League will follow up on the remaining meeting materials, comment on the Part I draft, and continue to participate in the proceedings. Reduce/Recycle Oregon’s Recycling Modernization Act will improve recycling systems in communities across Oregon by requiring producers of packaging, paper products, and food serviceware to share responsibility for an effective and responsible recycling system. A new Recycling Council advises DEQ and the producer responsibility organizations on key recycling system elements. Contact information is posted at RecyclingAct.Oregon.gov . SB 542 A (Right to Repair) continues to sit in Senate Rules until more amendments are made or until there are enough votes to pass it in the full Senate. The League provided testimony in support on Feb. 14. Toxics By Paula Grisafi HB 3043 A was amended by the A3 amendment and passed out of Senate Energy and Environment to the Senate floor. The bill revises provisions relating to chemicals in children’s products. SB 546 A (toxic free cosmetics) was sent to W&Ms, although there was NO fiscal for the 2023-25 session because, although the measure takes effect January 1, 2024, all substantive portions of the bill are not operative until January 1, 2027. SB 426 A (toxic free schools) was sent to W&Ms without clarity on the fiscal impact. The bill’s advocates are working to assure that the fiscal impact statement is not over inflated by agency staff. Urban/Rural Divide This article from the Oregon Capitol Chronicle is worth a read: According to Oregon’s 2023 Economic Outlook report , rural economies are leading growth in the state, with metro areas lagging. Rural areas have something to teach the rest of the state about protecting vulnerable populations. For example, according to a 2020 report by the Portland-based Oregon Community Foundation, seven of the 11 Oregon communities where children were most likely to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty were rural and primarily in eastern Oregon. The report also showed that growing up in northeastern Oregon had the most positive impact on future income for low-income children: “On average children who grew up in low-income families in Wallowa, Baker or Grant counties earned 26% more than children in similar families in Jefferson County and 14% more compared to children in Multnomah County”. Growing economies and increased economic mobility for low-income children are just a few examples of the value our rural communities bring to the state. Better understanding our rural communities and their assets would help to unify Oregon. Water By Peggy Lynch It’s time to engage in the Integrated Water Resources Strategy 2023 update. See the survey link on the webpage and meetings around the state, including a new May 31 virtual meeting opportunity. HB 3124 , a major water bill, was moved to House Rules without passage recommendation. The bill is a $250 million Drought Relief and Water Scarcity package and includes some of the other bills we’ve seen this session. The League provided comments on the bill, including a list of our priorities, using our participation in the HB 5006 Work Group as our guide. HB 3163A, a League priority, renews the Place-Based Planning program with a Fund to help groups participate in this program, was sent to W&Ms. The League participated in a Work Group last year to help develop sideboards on the program and provided testimony in support. HB 3100 A , addressing the Integrated Water Resources Strategy (IWRS), is in Ways and Means. The League provided testimony when the bill had its public hearing. Then we worked behind the scenes to provide guidance as the IWRS is updated. We support the bill. HB 3207 A , related to domestic well testing and data collection, is in W&Ms. LWVOR supports . HB 2813 A , creates a grant program to protect drinking water sources, is in W&Ms. LWVOR supports . HB 3125 would create a Ratepayer Assistance Fund to help low income people pay for sewer and water bills, is in Ways and Means. LWVOR supports . 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. The League supports HB 2647 A to continue to address this public health issue. It sits in Ways and Means. Thanks to a substantial snowpack, our drought in many parts of Oregon has lessened. However, the recent hot weather has begun to melt that “storage”. 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 and Harney counties. Lake and Sherman Counties have requested a drought declaration. In addition, many counties in eastern and southern Oregon have received Secretarial Disaster Designations from the US Department of Agriculture due to continuing drought conditions. Wildfire By Carolyn Mayers Senate Natural Resources held a Work Session on HB 2192 A -A6 , a portion of which pertains to requiring destroyed or demolished structures rebuilt in High or Extreme wildfire hazard zones having to comply with home hardening requirements in the Oregon Residential Specialty Code, whether the new wildfire hazard map is available yet, or not. It was sent to the floor with a do-pass recommendation. This was followed by an informational session on various topics including a number of methods used for early detection of wildfire by Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), including infrared enabled aircraft, cameras and remote monitoring at detection centers. One interesting tidbit was that of the 69 wildfires detected by aircraft, all 69 fires were kept below ODF’s 10 acre measure of success. This speaks to the effectiveness of this particular investment in wildfire response, most of which came from SB 762 , the sweeping 2021 wildfire legislation. Then the Department of Human Services discussed their work, largely in collaboration with the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), who also presented, around their “Cleaner Air Centers” and other actions taken to help Oregonians remain safe and healthy during wildfire smoke events, and ongoing monitoring of air quality. It was made clear that all work done in these areas was one-time funding, and if the work was to be ongoing, as it should be, new funding would be needed. Finally, there was an ODF presentation about prescribed fire and how they are planning on using this mitigation tool much more extensively than in the past. This plan does have a potential large obstacle in the form of a recent EPA study showing a higher level of harmfulness to humans from wildfire smoke than anticipated, or previously believed. See meeting materials. Oregon’s fleet of remote fire-watching cameras has grown following passage ofSB 762 (2021). The camera program expanded from 74 cameras at 58 sites now to 110 cameras at 94 sites. Teams at detection centers watch for signs of smoke the cameras pick up. With recent lightning events, the cameras have proved their worth. A fire spotted by camera in deep forest was put out within hours and only burned ½ an acre! HB 5025 the omnibus Higher Education Coordinating Commission budget bill is now in W&Ms.The League provided testimony in support of Oregon Conservation Corps fundin. SB 80 A , the omnibus Wildfire Programs bill, is in W&Ms as is SB 509 A , which aims to scale out neighborhood collaboratives to help whole neighborhoods reduce risk. LWVOR provided support for SB 509 A. Volunteers Needed What is your passion related to Natural Resources? You can help. Volunteers are needed. The 2023 legislative session is halfway over. 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 Legislative Report Revenue Legislative Report - Week of 5/19 Revenue Team Coordinator: Peggy Lynch Please see Governance Overview here . Jump to a topic: Revenue Updates Revenue Updates By Natalie Briggs https://www.oregon.gov/das/oea/pages/forecastecorev.aspx https://www.oregon.gov/das/oea/Documents/OEA-Forecast-0525.pdf https://www.oregon.gov/das/oea/Documents/OEA-Forecast-slides-0525.pdf The May 14th economic forecast highlights sluggish growth in the U.S. and Oregon economies, with an elevated risk of recession. Oregon’s GDP growth is forecasted to slow to 0.9% in 2025, marking a decline from previous estimates. However, stronger growth is projected for 2027, in anticipation of trade negotiations and a federal tax cut package. Additionally, Oregon’s revenue outlook has weakened, with General Fund revenues for 2023-25 revised down by $165.2 million due to slower economic growth. Projections for personal and corporate tax collections have fallen by $144.8 million and $77.3 million, respectively, from Q1 estimates. General Fund revenues for 2025-27 are expected to decline by $334.2 million, with personal income taxes experiencing the largest downward adjustment of $529 million. As a result, total available resources are now $755.7 million lower than the prior forecast. Budgetary reserves remain substantial, with total reserves estimated at $5.1 billion at the end of 2023-25. General Fund revenue growth is forecasted to reach 12% in the 2025-2027 biennium, driven by anticipated recovery in personal and corporate income, as well as higher estate tax collections. Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Climate Emergency , Governance , Natural Resources , and Social Policy report sections.

Back to All Legislative Reports Natural Resources Legislative Report - Week of 3/9 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 Please see Natural Resources Overview here . Jump to a topic: Agriculture Budgets/Revenue Climate Coastal Issues Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) Department of State Lands (DSL) Drinking Water Advisory Committee (DWAC) Elliott State Research Forest Forestry (ODF) Governance Land Use & Housing Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) Recycling Regional Solutions State Land Board Transportation (ODOT) Water Weather Wetlands Wildfire Done! The 2026 legislative short session closed before 5p on March 6. But the Oregon Legislative Information System (OLIS) is a year-round system so you can use it to review the bills, read testimony, find votes, and watch recorded committee hearings. We encourage you to e-Subscribe to committees of interest. Now it’s time to review the work done by the legislature and by your League volunteers. We were engaged on many issues about which Oregonians care. We worked with other groups on individual bills, signed on to letters in support and opposition as well as providing our own testimony on bills. We are a founding member of the Oregon Conservation Network (OCN). After taking a breather, it’s time to engage with our state agencies as they implement the legislation (you can get involved in rulemaking to help clarify the agency’s responsibilities on legislation about which you may be interested) and consider what needs to be done in 2027. Attend Town Halls and election events. Ask candidates questions and consider recommending legislation you believe will help your local community and/or the State of Oregon. Volunteers can monitor the Interim Committee Meetings in June, September and December and report to LWVOR’s Action Committee. We will provide Legislative Reports after each 3-day set of meetings. Governor’s Executive Orders 25-25, 25-26 and 25-29 Staff Report and Documents . Slide Presentation to the Land Conservation and Development Commission and Water Resources Commission on Feb. 26. The Orders instruct certain state agencies to implement these Orders on Wind and Solar Development, Promoting Resilience of our Communities and Natural and Working Lands and Waters and Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions. Environmental Caucus: Do you want to sign up? You can check out previous newsletters on the Environmental Caucus page . Questions or comments, email kathryn.duvall@oregonlegislature.gov . AGRICULTURE Sandra U. Bishop HB 4153 Enrolled: Relating to farm stores. This bill allows large stores in permanent structures on Exclusive Farm Use (EFU) zoned land and allows for major expansion of agri-tourism—mostly with a permit. The League opposed the bill and will monitor local actions. LFO Recommendation Staff Measure Summary OPB provides an article explaining the bill. Passed the House and Senate Mar. 6. HB 4130 Enrolled: Relating to farm use. This bill is predominantly a taxation bill. The main purpose is to make sure agricultural land under processing facilities or being used for farm product preparation are qualified for the special farm property tax assessment. The meaning of preparing farm products and by-products was also clarified. Mar. 3 Passed the House. Mar. 6 Passed the Senate . The League continues to follow work on the Lower Umatilla Basin Groundwater Management Area (LUBGWMA). State agencies are increasing their monitoring and enforcement of state laws and rules. But a lot of work remains, according to the state’s first report on its progress. BUDGETS/REVENUE Peggy Lynch See the Revenue section of this Legislative Report for in-depth information. We encourage you to read ALL sections. CLIMATE 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 Christine Moffitt SB 1525 A , creating the Blue Economy Task Force to report on economic development plans or strategies for Oregon’s blue (coastal) economy passed. The task force would sunset on 12/31/2027. This bill also would authorize the Oregon Ocean Science Trust to create a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) entity to serve as a dedicated fund-raising arm of the trust. HB 4097 , already passed by both Houses, contains an identical provision. HB 4097 has been signed by the Governor. LFO Recommendation SB 1525 passed Senate unanimously! Passed House March 5. News Release : Draft Offshore Wind Energy Roadmap Available. The public may comment from February 17 – April 3, 2026. Public meetings are also scheduled for our south coast communities starting Feb. 25 th . The League provided Comments on HB 4080 in 2024. Note that the schedule and meeting locations may have changed. website . The Oregon Department of State Lands (DSL) is updating administrative rules in Division 83 that guide how easements are issued for uses of the territorial sea (Undersea Infrastructure and Easements). Proposed changes will strengthen protections for Oregon’s marine ecosystems, streamline the permitting process, and ensure fair public compensation for use of the seafloor. March 11 meeting . Undersea Infrastructure and Easements in Oregon’s Territorial Sea Rulemaking . Public Access Rulemaking has begun to clarify how local governments will address protection of public access to Oregon beaches. The next meeting is May 13. News Release: The Oregon Coastal Management Program has published Rocky Habitat Management Plans for 8 locations. The Ocean Policy Advisory Council is seeking new members. Apply by April 1 st . Oregon Ocean Science Trust OOST) Quarterly Board Meeting, April 1 st . Ocean Policy Advisory Council Meeting Notice, April 21 st . The League of Women Voters of Coos County continues to follow the proposed Pacific Coast Intermodal Port (PCIP) project in Coos Bay. (See their public website .) DEPT. OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (DEQ) HB 4102 : Modifies the authority of DEQ to enter into agreements with regulated entities to expedite or enhance a regulatory process. It would allow DEQ to hire third-party contractors to expedite environmental permitting, as a response to DEQ’s sizable permitting backlog. LWVOR opposed the bill in written testimony , expressing great concern about the use of outside contractors to perform important permitting work, especially if those contractors are paid by the regulated businesses. Bill passed the House. We appreciated Rep. Gamba’s statement on the House floor regarding …”the potential influence on a permitting process without further sideboards.” Of interest, an Intel representative stated on the record that Oregon does “underfund our permitting agencies.” Passed the Senate floor on Mar. 2. The League will monitor. The Environmental Quality Commission will hold its next regular meeting on March 12, in Portland and via Zoom. Materials for the meeting, including links to staff reports, are now available on the meeting agenda webpage . DEPT. OF GEOLOGY AND MINERAL INDUSTRIES (DOGAMI) Joan Fryxell The League continues to monitor the Grassy Mountain Gold Mine project outside of Vale. We will also continue following DOGAMI’s carbon sequestration project in NE Oregon. Because of the high federal interest in rare earth minerals, we expect that this agency will be busy processing permit applications, particularly in Eastern Oregon. DEPT. OF STATE LANDS As part of their responsibility to be stewards of Oregon’s waters of the state, Willamette Week reports that Robert Pamplin, Jr. (Ross Island Sand and Gravel), has been fined $13.9 million for not keeping his agreement to mitigate the damage to the Willamette River. Ross Island Sand & Gravel, one of Pamplin’s companies, mined the Ross Island lagoon in the middle of Portland for sand and rock from 1926 to 2001. After the company ceased mining, it struck a 2002 agreement with the Oregon Department of State Lands, which regulates the state’s navigable waterways, to refill excavations well over 100 feet deep, as well as to restore the upland portions of the island, where the company processed the materials it mined . DRINKING WATER ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DWAC) Sandra U. Bishop The League has a standing seat on DWAC. ELLIOTT STATE RESEARCH FOREST (ESRF) The Elliott State Research Forest Board of Directors will meet virtually via Zoom March 11 , from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Click here to download the meeting agenda and materials . FORESTRY (ODF) Josie Koehne The Board of Forestry met March 4. News Release . Kacey KC, the new Oregon State Forester and Director of the Oregon Department of Forestry, started work March 1. Kacey began her career with the Nevada Division of Forestry on the Nursery and Seedbank Program, then moved into the state office working in various positions in fire suppression and resource management and then to the Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. ODF staffers Mike Wilson and Tyson Wepprich presented on rulemaking and performance measures for the Western Oregon Forest Management Plan (FMP). Board members and several people provided public comments, remarking that the document was too high level and vague. It did not set clear goals on which metrics could be set, which then should be reflected in the department's Business Performance Management (BPMs). See LWVOR comments on this plan her e. Chandra Ferrari, a former ODF Board member, now working with Geoff Huntington as Governor Kotek's natural resources staff, provided an update, followed by reporting on the Adaptive Management Program. A team composed of Kotek's appointees works closely with an OSU scientific research team, the Independent Research and Science Team (IRST). They are establishing a baseline using detailed Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) plots on which to measure forest health over time in response to climate change. The group is developing questions that can be quantified for future research. FIA plots are laid out on a grid that are monitored and that track species, tree health, and volume to assess forest conditions, growth, and carbon stock. The team then will make recommendations for forest management based on these findings. OPPORTUNITY FOR ACTION On the federal level, the administration wants an increase in logging per this Oregonlive article . The Trump administration is proposing to quadruple logging on federal lands in 18 Oregon counties, raising timber harvests to levels not seen since before spotted owl protections reshaped forest management in the 1990s. The public can comment on the logging increase proposal until March 23. BLM (The Bureau of Land Management) anticipates publishing a draft environmental impact statement this summer and making a final decision in early 2027, an agency spokesperson said. This session, two forestry bills passed and one died in Ways and Means: HB 4004 Enrolled: Provides that additional taxes otherwise imposed upon disqualification of land from certain forestland special assessment programs may not be collected if the disqualification is due to the suspension of reforestation requirements as a result of insects or disease. In other words, if forests are lost due to natural causes, like drought, landowners getting forestry special assessment will not have to pay penalties for land that no longer qualifies for special assessment. -11 amendments , -13 amendments , -14 amendments and – A 17 amendment s were all adopted. Passed both chambers. HB 4105 : Directs the State Forester to determine the available state forestland, establish sustainable harvest levels for harvesting timber on state forestland and manage available state forestland. See LWVOR testimony in opposition. Bill died in Ways and Means but is expected back in 2027. SB 1590 A Enrolled: Prohibits public bodies from assisting the federal government with privatization of certain federally owned lands. Passed both chambers. GOVERNANCE Peggy Lynch HB 4020 : Requires certain agencies to specify the authority justifying the denial of a permit application and provide the applicant a guide on how to contest the denial. -1 amendment was discussed and staff summary provided. LWVOR provided Comments . The -1 amendment was adopted. -A2 amendment adopted. LFO Recommendation . The bill passed the House Mar. 3. Passed the Senate Mar. 5 . HB 4021 : Requires certain agencies to make adoption, amendment or repeal of administrative rules effective only on January 1, April 1, July 1 or October 1. -2 amendment The League is concerned about the need for rules to be adopted and implemented in a timely manner. We will monitor. Passed the House. - A3 amendment was adopted and the bill passed the Senate Mar. 4. HB 4073 : Modifies provisions relating to administrative law. As with HB 2692 (2025), this bill creates burdensome and inefficient Administrative Rules Processes. LWVOR 2025 testimony . The League signed on to a letter in opposition to the bill. Bill died in committee. HB 4084 A : Establishes the Joint Permitting Council. See the Revenue Report for details of this bill. Staff Measure Summary LFO Recommendation . The League has been involved in conversations around these important policy and tax issues and provided an email to members of the Subcommittee with a request to support amendments restricting data centers and addressing some of the tax credits issues. LFO Recommendation of the three amendments added. Passed the House Mar. 4 (50/5/4/1) Passed the Senate Mar. 6 (21/8/1) LAND USE & HOUSING Peggy Lynch The Dept. of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) presented the Commission with a report on Data Centers, providing information on the planned and projected buildouts of data centers across the state. In the packet , see Item 9, Director's Report, Exhibit 1. It shows an expected land demand of 8,571 acres, 5,990 acres of which would be through proposed UGB expansions. That's more new data centers than Virginia has today. Almost all of these expansions are in Eastern Oregon/ Umatilla Basin. This might have been why Eastern OR was out in force during the Oregon Data Center Advisory Committee 's second agenda item from 10-11:30 "What are the Economic Development Possibilities and Concerns for Oregon’s Rural Communities?" A key quote from the DLCD report is: " The magnitude of urban growth boundary expansions for data center development is without modern precedent under Oregon’s statewide land use planning program.... [T]he rate of development by data centers is necessitating more frequent UGB expansions as local governments attempt to match the accelerating pace of industry demand." SB 5701 includes bonds for water and sewer projects that can help increase housing around Oregon as well as new Affordable Rental Housing and Preservation bonds to keep units that would otherwise go on the open market. HB 4035 : Expands eligibility for cities and Metro to amend their urban growth boundaries under a temporary program. Authorizes the Land Conservation and Development Commission to issue grants to implement the commission’s duties. -3 amendment was adopted and the bill passed the committee to the House floor where it passed on Feb. 18. The Senate Housing and Development adopted the -A 4 amendment. The bill passed the Senate on Mar. 2. HB 4082 : Adds to a temporary UGB addition program an option for each city or Metro to also add to its urban growth boundary a site for manufactured dwelling parks, or for housing for older persons, that is affordable for households with incomes not more than 120 percent of area median income. This Oregonlive article explains the conversation around this bill. The League has stayed silent, seeing both sides of the discussion. We will now monitor its effectiveness as cities consider implementation. Passed both chambers. SB 1586 : Modifies 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. Adds rural reserves in Washington County to Metro to be used for high technology and advanced manufacturing purposes. Oregonlive article provides a great review of the bill. The League submitted strong testimony in opposition. See the meeting materials posted in the Analysis section of the bill’s Overview for more information . - 7 amendment was posted Saturday morning (9:27a) from Sen. Sollman--a replacement of the bill. LWVOR provided testimony opposing the amendment on Feb. 23. T he bill remained in Senate Finance and Revenue with no Work Session scheduled. HB 4108 : Would have required a city to annex noncontiguous land upon receipt of a petition from all owners of the land that satisfies four eligibility criteria. The League supports the concept of this bill as good planning with the -1 amendment . A -2 amendment was adopted limiting this policy as a “pilot project” for the City of Eugene. We are disappointed that the bill was narrowed, but glad to see some movement on this important land use issue. The bill passed the House on Feb. 18. The Senate Housing and Development adopted a -A 4 amendment and the bill passed the Senate Mar. 4. The House concurred and passed the amended bill on Mar. 6. HB 4113 : As filed, the bill would have required the Department of Land Conservation and Development to study housing development opportunities conditioned upon land conservation. Directed the department to submit findings to the interim committees of the Legislative Assembly no later than September 15, 2027. The bill relates to prior legislation (2009) around the Metolius. The Metolius was designated an Area of Critical State Concern and the developers of land in that area were granted an opportunity to use Transfer of Development Rights for a limited period of time. That time has been extended a number of times but this is 17 years later! -1 amendment The League was part of a Sign on letter in opposition to the bill. Bill died in committee. SB 1578 : Allows counties with a population density of less than 30 people per square mile to rezone up to 50 acres to be divided and developed for residential dwellings of at least five units per acre. The League has concerns related to parcellation of ag and forest lands and adding more private wells and septic systems in these rural areas . The bill died in committee. The 2025-27 Policy Agenda 2025-27 Policy Agenda was approved by LCDC on Oct. 24. There will be seven rulemakings on Housing alone, including: Housing Rulemaking for HB 2138 and HB 2258 (2025) and Rulemaking to clarify and allow housing and other needed development outside of wetlands. The rulemaking would create an optional, alternative compliance pathway for wetlands resources when a city is preparing bill annex lands from the urban growth boundary (UGB) to accommodate needed housing and economic development. LCDC had a presentation on Feb. 27 th (DSL presentation on wetlands at LCDC on YouTube Feb. 27 at the 3-4:15p Meeting time.) See their Rulemaking page for more info on all the rules work being done by this agency. News Release: New officers were elected for the Land Conservation and Development Commission: Chair Lazzo and Vice Chair Boyer. The League joined others in support of Oregon’s Land Use Planning Program in a letter on Feb. 2 nd . It is important for Oregonians to understand the impact of all 19 Goals and how they address “where we live, work, shop and play and how we get there”. See also the Housing Report in the Social Policy section of this Legislative Report. OREGON DEPT. OF FISH AND WILDLIFE (ODFW) Melanie Moon HB 4134 is the 1.25% for Wildlife bipartisan bill that would increase the state transient lodging tax from 1.5% to 2.75% for transient visitors to Oregon including camping, hotels and vacation rentals. It is estimated to raise $13.4 million this biennium (and specifies the net revenue from 0.9 percentage points of the increase is to be distributed to the Recovering Oregon’s Wildlife Fund Subaccount. Specifies 0.1 percent of the net revenue to be distributed to the Oregon Conservation Corps Fund, 0.05 percent to the Department of State Police to combat the poaching of wildlife, 0.05 percent to the Wolf Management Compensation and Proactive Trust Fund, 0.05 percent the Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund, 0.05 percent to the State Department of Fish and Wildlife for wildlife connectivity and 0.02 for wildlife stewardship, 0.015 percent to the Invasive Species Control Account, 0.01 percent to the Department of Justice for anti-poaching and wildlife law enforcement, and 0.005 percent to the Invasive species Council Account. Revenue Impact Statement LWVOR signed on to a letter in support . HB 4134 (20/9/0/1) passed March 4 and passed the Senate (20/9/1) on March 4. OREGON PARKS AND RECREATION DEPT (OPRD) The League is working with others to address the fiscal crisis at OPRD. Oregonlive provides an article on ways they are trying to save money. The League studied Oregon Parks in 1998: Oregon State Parks, Part 1 (PDF, 7 pgs) Oregon State Parks, Part 2 (PDF, 9 pgs) . OREGON WATERSHED ENHANCEMENT BOARD (OWEB) The Oregon Environmental Restoration Council (OERC)—a part of OWEB--has an OERC website. The state of Oregon has secured a historic $698 million dollar settlement against Monsanto for long term harm caused by the company’s polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) chemicals to Oregon’s land, water, fish and wildlife. The Ways and Means Committee approved an Other Funds expenditure limitation increase of $35 million which was included in HB 5204. RECYCLING HB 4144 A : Requires producers of batteries or battery-containing products to join a battery producer responsibility organization and implement a battery producer responsibility program for the collection and recycling of batteries. Target is lithium batteries that start fires. Passed both chambers. REGIONAL SOLUTIONS The Regional Solutions Program : Within each of the 11 Regions, which are tied to Oregon’s federally designated Economic Development Districts, a Governor-appointed Advisory Committee sets Regional Priorities and a cross-functional Team of state agency staff works together to move projects forward. To receive their reports, use this signup page . The public is welcome to attend virtually or in person. Go to the program website and to the region to find the agendas and meeting materials posted a few days before the meetings. Public Comment is usually scheduled. Upcoming Regional Solutions Advisory Committee (RSAC) Meetings: Regional Solutions: Mid-Valley (Marion, Polk, and Yamhill Counties) March 12th from 1:30-3:30pm Northeast (Baker, Union, and Wallowa Counties) March 13th from 2:00-4:00pm South Central (Klamath and Lake Counties) March 17th from 10:00am-12:00pm Southern (Jackson and Josephine Counties) March 25th from 12:00-2:00pm South Valley/Mid-Coast (Benton, Lane, Lincoln, and Linn Counties) March 26th from 1:00-3:00pm STATE LAND BOARD Peggy Lynch The State Land Board meets regularly. Their next meetings (tentative) are: April 14, June 9, August 11, October 13, and December 8. Watch a livestream of the meeting or recordings of past meetings on their YouTube channel. . The League follows these meetings since the Governor, Secretary of State and State Treasurer comprise the Board membership. They are responsible for management of the Common School Fund, including lands and other assets, overseeing the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, the Elliott State Research Forest and our Waters of the State. TRANSPORTATION (ODOT) On March 3, SB 1601 with the -3 amendment was posted. It included a rebalance of ODOT’s programs in Section 11-23. Passed the Senate and House Mar 6. Money was moved from a variety of ODOT funds in order to pay for basic operations and maintenance. Oregonlive provided an analysis : The largest reductions would be $42 million from Connect Oregon, which pays for aviation, marine and rail projects, and $35 million that primarily funds bridge projects, seismic improvements and highway preservation, among other programs. The plan would also redirect $20 million from the state’s Transportation Operating Fund, which supports a range of services including passenger rail and transportation for people with disabilities. It would also cut $17 million from Safe Routes to School, which funds infrastructure to make walking and biking to school safer for children. But staffing was lost with many employees choosing to leave the agency during this funding fight. This is a short-term fix for a very real problem. We can only hope there are significant conversations around how to pay for transportation services, including transit services, in 2027. SB 1599 : Moves the election date for the parts of chapter 1, Oregon Laws 2025 (special session), referred to the people by Referendum Petition 2026-302 , to the primary election held on May 19, 2026. Bill was assigned to the new Joint Special Committee On Referendum Petition 2026-302 . -2 amendment adopted and bill passed the committee on a party line vote. Passed the Senate Feb. 23 (17/13). Passed the House (31/20/8/1) Mar. 2. Governor signed Mar. 2. Because the referendum date was moved from November to May, some members of the legislature and an individual Oregonian are suing. They contend that the November date was on the petitions they submitted to the Secretary of State. See Oregonlive article . News Release: The Transportation Commission is meeting March 12. News Release : Agency response to legislative session action. SB 1542 : Measure What We Drive: Performance-based scoring system to allocate road project funding, to include safety, climate and emissions. Annual Report Card. Bill died in committee. SB 1543 : Guardrails for Good Governance: Adopt a transportation debt management policy with better transparency. Broaden representation on the Oregon Transportation Commission. Bill died in committee. HB 4126 : Get the Data for a Better Road User Charge (RUC). Died in Ways and Means. HB 4008 : Transit Funding Task Force To determine the level of funding needed to maintain adequate transit service statewide and explore funding mechanisms to achieve that funding. Died in Ways and Means. From ODOT press release : Learn more about our capital improvement plan for state and federally funded projects by visiting the draft 2027-2030 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program, also known as the STIP, online open house . The online open house will be available through March 20. We may use your comments to make adjustments as we begin designing projects in the STIP. All comments will be included in the public comment record. This record will go to the Oregon Transportation Commission before they approve the final STIP in June. WATER The League monitored water bills but did not directly engage. Two of the bills about which we had concerns died: HB 4049 : Directs the Water Resources Commission to encourage and approve voluntary agreements between ground water users in the Greater Harney Valley Groundwater Area of Concern to achieve reasonably stable ground water levels. The -3 amendments were adopted and the bill was moved to Ways and Means where in died. HB 4006 : Authorizes holders of certain Columbia River water rights to change the point of diversion or use the water right on land to which the right is not appurtenant, provided certain conditions are met. Bill died in Committee. The Water Committee for LWV Deschutes County provided comments to a recent rulemaking, encouraging better linkages between land use and water. LWVOR has supported that concept for a very long time and we appreciate their voice on this important issue. On Feb. 26 the Land Conservation and Development Commission met with the Water Resources Commission to discuss how to address this important issue. Oregon Water Caucus : The Oregon Legislature's Water Caucus is a bipartisan, bicameral group of state legislators and staff committed to fostering a secure and resilient water future for all. T o learn more about the Water Caucus and its work, please contact Harmony Burright at 541-846-8863 or Harmony.Burright@OregonLegislature.gov . You can also subscribe to receive email updates from the Water Caucus . League members may want to check the U. S. Drought Monitor , a map that is updated every Thursday. Governor Kotek has declared a drought in eight counties ( map ) . Here is a more complete website about drought in Oregon. We all need to pay attention to the potential for harmful algal blooms ( HABs) . “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. Information on current advisories can be found on the OHA’s cyanobacteria bloom webpage at healthoregon.org/hab . The OHA has an online photo gallery to help community members identify signs of potentially harmful blooms. WEATHER The Bend Bulletin reports Oregon’s snowpack looked “terrible” roughly one month from when it should hit its peak, and that could contribute to drought and wildfires and cause irrigation problems, said Larry O’Neill, Oregon state climatologist. The best guess of the various forecasters is that sometime between June and September the world will enter an El Niño cycle. When that happens, prepare for bedlam. Each El Niño event in recent decades has gotten steadily worse, because each one drives the temperature to a new record. Here’s a short video explaining El Nino. WETLANDS SB 1584 : Directs the Department of State Lands, in consultation with the State Department of Fish and Wildlife, to develop a salmon credit pilot program to encourage the voluntary restoration of salmonid habitat in the Coquille and Coos watershed basins. The League has opposed similar bills in the past, including SB 511 (2025). We provided testimony again in opposition. The bill died in Committee. The next meeting of the Wetlands Rulemaking RAC, originally planned for February 23) will be postponed until later in the spring. Please stay tuned for a new meeting date after the close of the 2026 legislative session. DLCD’s rulemaking webpage. WILDFIRE Carolyn Mayers SB 1540 A , which endeavored to align insurance company wildfire risk assessment with homeowner and community level mitigation efforts in an attempt to help address the rising cost of homeowners insurance, died in committee. SB 1541 died in Ways and Means. This was Senator Golden’s Climate Superfund bill which would have provided, among other things, funding toward wildfire mitigation and disaster recovery. SB 1551 A would invalidate deed restrictions and planned community governing documents prohibiting the removal of non-fire-hardened building materials or installation of fire-hardened building materials on residential properties. This bill passed both chambers. HJM 201 , which urges Congress to pass legislation to permanently extend federal tax cuts for wildfire victims , has passed the House and the Senate. The Oregon Capital Chronicle reported that Oregon is building back better. Thanks to state incentives, the new homes are more energy efficient and resilient to future threats The 2025 Fire season costs were contained in HB 5204 for both the Dept. of Forestry and the Dept. of the State Fire Marshal. There are openings for membership in the Governor’s Wildfire Program Advisory Council . Finally, as reported in this article from KPTV, loss of funding may result in 30 early wildfire detection cameras being shut down across the State. This is technology that has proven to be instrumental in authorities being able to respond quickly to wildfires, keeping them contained, and the loss of the the use of them would be potentially catastrophic in the face of increasing wildfire risk in Oregon. OPB also covered this story: Almost half of the University of Oregon’s network of cameras to monitor wildfires is at risk of being discontinued, according to an administrator. The Oregon Hazards Lab’s network of cameras operates 24-7 and covers some of the most remote, rugged, and inaccessible areas of the state. It is unclear if any funding was provided in 2026. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED : What is your passion related to Natural Resources? You can help. Volunteers are needed. We particularly need help tracking legislation concerning • Air Quality (Dept. of Environmental Quality) • Columbia River Gorge Commission • Hanford Cleanup • Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife • Parks and Recreation Dept. • Recycling/Materials Management (Dept. of Environmental Quality) • Toxic Control Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Climate Emergency , Revenue , Governance , and Social Policy report sections.

local leagues Local Leagues In Oregon We have members throughout the state of Oregon and 15 local Leagues or state Units. Members who don't reside near a local League can join at the state level as a Member-At-State (MAS)! Most Leagues offer free or discounted membership for students. Join the League in your area! LWV of Clackamas County PO Box 411 Lake Oswego, OR 97034 Become a Member Go To Website LWV of Coos County PO Box 1571 Coos Bay, OR 97420 Become a Member Go To Website LWV of Corvallis PO Box 1679 Corvallis, OR 97339 Become a Member Go To Website LWV of Curry County PO Box 1859 Gold Beach, OR 97444 Become a Member Go To Website LWV of Deschutes County PO Box 1783 Bend, OR 97709 Become a Member Go To Website LWV of Klamath County PO Box 1226 Klamath Falls, OR 97601 Become a Member Go To Website LWV of Lane County 175 West B Street #2 | Island Professional Center Springfield, OR 97477 Become a Member Go To Website LWV of Lincoln County PO Box 1648 Newport, OR 97365 Become a Member Go To Website Linn County Unit 1330 12th St SE Suite 200 Salem, OR 97302 Become a Member Go To Website LWV of Marion/Polk Counties P. O. Box 421 Salem, OR 97308 Become a Member Go To Website LWV of Portland PO Box 3491 Portland, OR 97208 Become a Member Go To Website LWV of Rogue Valley PO Box 8555 Medford, OR 97501 Become a Member Go To Website LWV of Umpqua Valley PO Box 2434 Roseburg, OR 97470 Become a Member Go To Website Union County Unit 1330 12th St SE Suite 200 Salem, OR 97302 Become a Member Go To Website Washington County Unit 1330 12th St SE Suite 200 Salem, OR 97302 Become a Member Go To Website

Back to All Legislative Reports Natural Resources Legislative Report - Week of 2/2 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 Please see Natural Resources Overview here . Jump to a topic: Agriculture Budgets/Revenue Climate Coastal Issues Dept. of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) Drinking Water Advisory Committee (DWAC) Forestry (ODF) Governance Land Use & Housing Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) Oregon Parks and Recreation Dept. (OPRD) Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) Recycling Regional Solutions State Land Board Transportation Water Weather Wetlands Wildfire Intro It’s time! Information on the 2026 session is live ! Bills are posted and committee agendas are beginning to be posted. We encourage you to e-Subscribe to the bills you want to follow and the committees of interest. That means you will receive email notices of the bills you select and the committees you choose to follow. In a short session, it’s critical to know when the issues about which you want to follow are going to be heard/acted upon. Below you will find bills that our volunteers found of interest. You will need to look on OLIS to find the Committee to which the bills have been assigned—to be assigned on opening day Feb. 2. We will review all bills for a linkage to League positions to determine if we will provide testimony for or against. Of course, we also await the Feb. 4 th Revenue Forecast. The Full Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing from 5-8p on Feb. 3 rd . Individual League members are encouraged to participate, but remember that only our League President can speak on behalf of the League. See the Revenue section of this Legislative Report and sections of other Legislative Reports. AGRICULTURE By Sandra U. Bishop HB 4130 : Relating to farm use. As introduced, this bill relates to prepared farm products. This measure would seem to allow a greatly expanded variety of products to be produced and sold on farmland under the guise of clarifying the meaning of preparing farm products and by-products. Proposed changes would tie preparation of farm products or by-products to a newly defined farm unit (all parcels used for farming whether owned or leased) and to where a majority of the preparation occurs. Preparing products or by-products is defined as “… means but is not limited to cleaning, treating, cutting, sorting and packaging.” There is also a proposed language change regarding biofuel processing that would seem to open farmland for increased biofuel production. The League has concerns linked to our positions on the importance of agricultural lands for agriculture. HB 4153 : Relating to farm stores. This bill as introduced would eliminate farm stands and allow up to 10,000 square foot farm stores in permanent buildings selling products created in an enlarged region including areas of adjacent states. This would include undefined retail items allowed to take up to 25% of store space, and beverages and processed food for immediate consumption. Proposed definitions of agri-tourism range from specific allowables such as crop mazes and play structures to vague descriptors such as “… other seasonal or holiday events.” The language would seem to grant permission for any type of event. As written the proposed changes would put a burden on counties to determine any additional standards for siting farm stores. The permissive language “…may adopt sitting standards for farm stores…” is likely to leadto insufficient regulation or public accountability especially in counties that are severely underfunded and cannot afford to spend excessive staff time determining standards in individual cases of proposed farm store developments. The League has concerns linked to our positions on the importance of agricultural lands for agriculture. Public Hearing Feb. 4. The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) accepted public comments on proposed rules for the Lower Umatilla Basin Groundwater Management Area ( LUBGWMA) . In an article by the Oregon Capital Chronicle, it was noted: In comments shared with the Oregon Department of Agriculture and the Oregon Board of Agriculture shortly before the new year, farm groups opposed to the rules told regulators they go too far, while others contended they don’t go far enough. The Oregon Health Authority since 2024 found that at least 634 domestic drinking water wells in the area contain unsafe levels of nitrate, some with nearly 10 times the federal limit for safe drinking water, and more than 420 show elevated levels that could lead to long-term health problems. Update: Here’s the 2025 Annual Report on the LUBGWMA. The plan outlines the state’s key strategies to reduce groundwater nitrate concentrations to less than 7 milligrams per liter (mg/L) in the area and protect public health in the immediate term. The report shares progress but also notes that it will take decades to reverse the damage done to the area’s groundwater supplies. BUDGETS/REVENUE Peggy Lynch As we await the Feb. 4 th Revenue Forecast, agencies were directed to reduce their spending as well as providing a list of potential cuts of up to 5% per agency per revenue source ( General Fund, Lottery Fund, Other Funds) and to provide a list of any new programs that were approved since 2021—all due to reduced revenue forecasts, federal legislation and actions. Here are the meeting materials submitted to LFO by the 14 natural resource agencies. League members have been meeting with legislators to advocate for important programs. We can support vacancy savings (not hiring for some authorized staffing or delaying hiring), but we want to maintain the position authority for this biennium. We also recognize that losing trained staff is costly in the long term since many staff need 6-12 months to be fully trained, especially for processing permits. Working in the natural resource world which is less than 3% of the state’s budget, each cut reduces the ability for Oregon to protect our air, land and water. See the Revenue section of this Legislative Report for in depth information. We encourage you to read ALL sections. CLIMATE 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 Christine Moffitt SB 1525 will establish the Blue Economy Task Force to study and report on Oregon’s blue economy sectors, existing economic development plans and strategies, and opportunities to support the growth of sustainable blue economy businesses while maintaining the health of Oregon’s coastal ecosystems. The measure also authorizes the Oregon Ocean Science Trust to create and maintain a nonprofit organization. HB 4097 : Authorizes the Oregon Ocean Science Trust to create and maintain a nonprofit organization. LWVOR can support this bill. Public Hearing is Feb. 2 nd . Work Session set for Feb. 4. Public Access Rulemaking has begun to clarify how local governments will address protection of public access to Oregon beaches. @ dlcd.oregon.gov with questions. More information is available at OregonOcean.Info/RockyHabitats . DEPT. OF GEOLOGY AND MINERAL INDUSTRIES (DOGAMI) The federal government approves Grassy Mt. Gold Mine according to OPB. The Grassy Mountain gold mine still needs multiple state permits before moving ahead. It would occupy nearly 470 acres of public land for the next decade, and then the site would undergo a four-year restoration period and 20 years of monitoring. If this project is approved, the City of Vale will see a temporary transformation as they seek housing and other services for workers. The latest on the Grassy Mt. Gold Mine Project per the Dept. of Environmental Quality’s Director's Report : Grassy Mountain Gold Mine Project: DEQ prepared four draft permits for the Grassy Mountain project, a proposed gold mine located in Malheur County approximately 22 miles south-southwest of Vale. Mining will be sub-surface, and gold will be extracted from the ore using a cyanide extraction process. DEQ permits regulate potential releases of contaminants to air, land, and water. DEQ has been working closely with the Department of Geology and Mineral Industries and other state agencies to develop draft permits, following a consolidated permitting process that is unique to chemical process mining. DEQ is currently working with DOGAMI on draft permit conditions related to the protection of groundwater resources and solid waste management in response to preliminary comments from the applicant. DOGAMI is accepting public comments through February 6, 2026, as outlined in the public notice , including related documents. The League has followed this project—the first chemical processing gold mine proposed for Oregon. A new streamlined permitting process has been used for this application. OPB provided an article . OPB also covered exploration of a lithium mine in Southeast Oregon. Here’s an article about the effects on sage grouse of these mining operations. DRINKING WATER ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DWAC) Sandra U. Bishop The League has a standing seat on DWAC. Interactive GIS Maps for water system and source water protection have been improved. These maps are available to the public as well as water system operators and are maintained by the Oregon DEQ’s Drinking Water Protection group and may be accessed via the DWS website . FORESTRY (ODF) Josie Koehne “Governor Kotek’s second executive order ( EO 25-26 ) directs state agencies to coordinate and integrate climate-resilient strategies into existing state programs that work with the state’s natural and working lands,and waters. Those lands include state-owned forests, grasslands, rangelands, farmlands, wetlands and urban parts, and open outdoor spaces.” See the OEC Nov 25 2025 article : “What Governor Kotek’s Executive Order Rollout Means for Oregon”. The executive order did not provide funding however, which will be exceptionally limited this session due to Oregon’s revenue shortfall resulting from the federal HR 1 with major funding cuts, and caused by Oregon’s rolling connection to federal tax law. The new State Forester, recently appointed by the Governor, is Kacey KC from Nevada , who will begin in her new position on March 1st. More info from a s tory in Oregonlive. The following is a list of bills we will be watching and possibly commenting on: HB 4004 : Provides that additional taxes otherwise imposed upon disqualification of land from certain forestland special assessment programs may not be collected if the disqualification is due to the suspension of reforestation requirements as a result of insects or disease. HB 4105 : Directs the State Forester to determine the available state forestland, establish sustainable harvest levels for harvesting timber on state forestland and manage available state forestland. Allows certain persons to seek a court order if the State Forester fails to establish sustainable harvest levels or manage available state forestland. LWVOR opposed a version of this bill in 2025 and will do so in 2026. HB 4056 : Appropriates moneys to the State Forestry Department to offset landowners’ costs of fire protection provided by the department. For the biennium ending June 30, 2027, out of the General Fund, the amount of $9,000,000, for the purpose of offsetting potential increases in landowner forest patrol assessments. SB 1590 : Prohibits public bodies from assisting the federal government with privatization of certain federally owned lands. GOVERNANCE By Peggy Lynch The Natural Resources Team often follows bills related to permitting processes. Among the bills we are following: HB 4019 : Requires certain agencies to base approval or denial of an application for a new permit on the rules and standards that are applicable at the time that the agency determines the application is complete. HB 4020 : Requires certain agencies to specify the authority justifying the denial of a permit application and provide the applicant a guide on how to contest the denial. HB 4084 : Establishes the Joint Permitting Council. (Governor’s bill) SB 1586 : Modifies 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. Directs certain state agencies to establish deadlines within which the agency intends to process applications for permits and make the deadlines available to the public. Directs certain state agencies to publish a catalog of permits issued by the agency within 60 days after the effective date of the Act. LAND USE & HOUSING Peggy Lynch Bills we are watching: t HB 4113 : Requires the Department of Land Conservation and Development to study housing development opportunities conditioned upon land conservation. Directs the department to submit findings to the interim committees of the Legislative Assembly related to land use no later than September 15, 2027. HB 4035 : Expands eligibility for cities and Metro to amend their urban growth boundaries under temporary program. Authorizes the Land Conservation and Development Commission to issue grants to implement the commission’s duties. HB 4082 : Adds to a temporary UGB addition program an option for each city or Metro to also add to its urban growth boundary a site for manufactured dwelling parks, or for housing for older persons, that is affordable for households with incomes not more than 120 percent of area median income. Public Hearing Feb. 3. SB 1586 : Modifies 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. Directs certain state agencies to establish deadlines within which the agency intends to process applications for permits and make the deadlines available to the public. Directs certain state agencies to publish a catalog of permits issued by the agency within 60 days after the effective date of the Act. Adds rural reserves in Washington County to Metro to be used for high technology and advanced manufacturing purposes. See more on this omnibus bill in the Revenue Legislative Report. The League has major concerns about sections of this bill. The 2025-27 Policy Agenda was approved by LCDC on Oct. 24. There will be seven rulemakings on Housing alone, including: Housing Rulemaking for HB 2138 and HB 2258 (2025) and Rulemaking to clarify and allow housing and other needed development outside of wetlands. The rulemaking would create an optional, alternative compliance pathway for wetlands resources when a city is preparing to annex lands from the urban growth boundary (UGB) to accommodate needed housing and economic development. See their Rulemaking page for more info on all the rules work being done by this agency. See also the Housing Report in the Social Policy section of this Legislative Report. OREGON DEPT. OF FISH AND WILDLIFE (ODFW) Melanie Moon HB 4134 is a bipartisan bill that would increase the state tax from 1.5% to 2.75% for transient visitors to Oregon including camping, hotels and vacation rentals. This 1.25% increase has the potential to raise tens of millions of dollars urgently needed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife to protect hundreds of imperiled species and the habitat that supports them. As an added benefit, this investment in wildlife and habitat would help protect clean drinking water and provide protection from drought and wildfires. LWVOR signed on to a letter in support . High Country News provides an article on this bill. Hearing Feb. 4. OREGON PARKS AND RECREATION DEPT (OPRD) Peggy Lynch The League is working with others to address the fiscal crisis at OPRD. Oregonlive provides an article on ways they are nibbling around the edges. But OPRD is responsible not only for our wonderful state parks, but also historical sites. Many need infrastructure repairs. There is a conversation around getting some amount of bonding to help with this maintenance, but also setting up a Task Force to study new long term operational funding options. The League studied Oregon Parks in 1998: Oregon State Parks, Part 1 (PDF, 7 pgs) Oregon State Parks, Part 2 (PDF, 9 pgs) . OREGON WATERSHED ENHANCEMENT BOARD (OWEB) The Oregon Environmental Restoration Council (OERC) held a virtual meeting on January 22. The agenda and meeting materials are available on OERC’s website. The Interim Ways and Means Committee approved an Other Funds expenditure limitation increase of $35 million to be included in the 2026 budget reconciliation bill. RECYCLING HB 4144 : Requires producers of batteries or battery-containing products to join a battery producer responsibility organization and implement a battery producer responsibility program for the collection and recycling of batteries. Public Hearing Feb. 2. REGIONAL SOLUTIONS The Regional Solutions Program : Within each of the 11 Regions, which are tied to Oregon’s federally designated Economic Development Districts, a Governor-appointed Advisory Committee sets Regional Priorities and a cross-functional Team of state agency staff works together to move projects forward. If you know anyone who may benefit from these publications, please direct them to this signup page . The public is welcome to attend virtually or in person. Go to the program website and to the region to find the agendas and meeting materials posted a few days before the meetings. Public Comment is usually scheduled. Upcoming Regional Solutions Advisory Committee (RSAC) Meetings: Regional Solutions: South Central (Klamath and Lake Counties) February 17th from 9:00am-11:00am Mid-Valley (Marion, Polk, and Yamhill Counties) March 12th from 1:30-3:30pm Southern (Jackson and Josephine Counties) March 25th from 12:00-2:00pm South Valley/Mid-Coast (Benton, Lane, Lincoln, and Linn Counties) March 26th from 1:00-3:00pm STATE LAND BOARD Peggy Lynch The State Land Board will meet Feb. 10. The agenda and meeting materials will be available soon. The League follows these meetings since the Governor, Secretary of State and State Treasurer comprise the Board membership. TRANSPORTATION (ODOT) Update Jan. 21: Referral vote on funding parts of HB 3991 (2025) may be held May 19 instead of November per this press release from Legislative Leadership. But a bill needs to be passed and signed by the Governor by Feb. 25 per the Oregon Secretary of State’s office per the Salem Reporter . See details in the January 26 Legislative Report. One critic’s funding answer . The Statesman Journal reported : The Oregon Department of Transportation faces a budget gap of $242 million for the 2025-2027 budget cycle, ODOT leaders told staff Dec. 23. "It’s a smaller gap, and while that’s good news, it’s still big enough to require service level cuts and future layoffs if we have to manage this on our own with existing revenue and within existing spending restrictions," ODOT director Kris Strickler and incoming interim director Lisa Sumption wrote in an email to staff . A press release from ODOT on Jan. 14 reports: Impacts of Funding Gap Isn’t Addressed. In the upcoming short session, legislators will be looking at a $297 million funding target to support ODOT’s operations beyond June 30, 2027. Without new resources for the current budget cycle, the agency estimates it would need to reduce its workforce by more than 1,000 positions, including eliminating570 vacant positions and laying off approximately 470 current employees. The House Transportation Committee shared their Committee LCs and the Senate Transportation Committee did the same for the 2026 session. KATU reminded Oregonians of the need for road maintenance. WATER Peggy Lynch Bills of concern: HB 4006 : Authorizes holders of certain Columbia River water rights to change the point of diversion or use the water right on land to which the right is not appurtenant, provided certain conditions are met. HB 4049 : Directs the Water Resources Commission to encourage and approve voluntary agreements between ground water users in the Greater Harney Valley Groundwater Area of Concern to achieve reasonably stable ground water levels League members may want to check the U. S. Drought Monitor , a map that is updated every Thursday. Governor Kotek has declared a drought in eight counties ( map ) . Here is a more complete website about drought in Oregon. We all need to pay attention to the potential for harmful algal blooms ( HABs) . “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. Information on current advisories can be found on the OHA’s cyanobacteria bloom webpage at healthoregon.org/hab . The OHA has an online photo gallery to help community members identify signs of potentially harmful blooms. WEATHER Snow pack on Mt. Hood per this Jan. 22 nd Oregonlive article : As of Wednesday, the snow water equivalent at Mount Hood stood at 10 inches, which represents the third-lowest total for this point in a water year since 1980. Here is a statewide map as of Jan. 25 th from the Natural Resources Conservation Service. KOIN provides concerns about next week’s rain in this Jan. 27 th article. WETLANDS Peggy Lynch SB 1584 : Directs the Department of State Lands, in consultation with the State Department of Fish and Wildlife, to develop a salmon credit pilot program to encourage the voluntary restoration of salmonid habitat in the Coquille and Coos watershed basins. Establishes the Salmon Credit Trust Fund. Directs the Department of State Lands and the State Department of Fish and Wildlife to consult with the United States Army Corps of Engineers to seek federal approval for a bank instrument and authorization of activities that occur in navigable waters of the United States. Becomes operative on the date that the federal authorization and bank instrument are approved. Provides that the Department of State Lands may not approve a salmon credit project on or after January 1 of the sixth year following federal approval. The League has opposed similar bills in the past, including SB 511 (2025). We will again oppose. Public Hearing Feb. 3. The League was pleased to learn that LWVUS provided comments on the proposed changes to the Waters of the U. S. (WOTUS) rules “Waters of the United States.” LWVUS believes that the changes would significantly impair water quality protections around the country and filed a comment letter . We shared these comments with the Oregon state agency directors who provided comments to the EPA and U. S. Army Corps of Engineers on the proposed changes to the Waters of the U. S. (WOTUS) rules. They were appreciative. WILDFIRE Carolyn Mayers Bills we are watching: SB 1540 : Requires an insurer that uses a catastrophe model or wildfire risk model to provide the Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services a description of each model, along with related information, and an explanation of how the insurer uses the model in underwriting decisions. Specifies elements that an insurer must include in each model and requires the insurer to give a premium discount or adjustment, or other incentive, to a policy holder that demonstrates having undertaken a property-specific mitigation action or that a community-level mitigation action occurred in proximity to the policy holder’s property. SB 1551 : Invalidates deed restrictions and planned community governing documents prohibiting the removal of non-fire-hardened building materials or installation of fire-hardened building materials on residential properties. Public Hearing Feb. 3. Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Climate Emergency , Revenue , Governance , and Social Policy report sections.

Tips for communicating with elected officials from LWVOR. / Communicating With Elected Officials / Tips For Communicating With Elected Officials Getting to Know Your Elected Officials Knowing your elected officials is relatively easy, and being acquainted is a big help when you need to communicate with them. Talking or writing to someone you know personally is almost always easier than dealing with a stranger, particularly a busy stranger. Whether or not you know the official with whom you want to communicate, some simple but important points should be kept in mind: be brief be clear be accurate be civil be persuasive be timely be persistent be grateful These points apply whether you are using the telephone, are testifying to a committee, or just writing a letter or an email. Some other tips: Don't promise rewards, offer deals, or make threats. Don't attack your opposition. Attacks on your opponents weaken your message. Meeting with Your Elected Officials Make an appointment by letter or phone. Briefly outline the issues you wish to discuss in your letter or in your call. If you've had prior discussions about these issues, mention them. Don't insist on setting up the appointment through the official; he or she has competent helpers. Be as courteous with staff as you are with your elected officials. Arrive on time. Limit the issues you discuss to not more than three. Organize your presentation. Be brief, friendly, and to the point. Plan on not more than 15 minutes. Prepare a brief summary of your comments to leave with him or her, and documentation that confirms your message. The written message should restate exactly what you're asking of your elected official. Offer to provide additional information and assistance. Bring a second person to help present the message, but don't bring a crowd. If you're asked a question you can't answer, say so and ask for a chance to do some checking and provide the answer later. Send a thank you letter, whether the official has been able to help you or not. When You Write Keep your letter to a single page. If you must exceed one page, make the second page an attachment that elaborates on your one-page summary. Be absolutely sure you spell the official's name correctly and have the right address. If you're writing to several officials on the same subject, individualize the letters. Use your own words, not form letters. Clearly identify the issue (or bill) you are writing about, and only discuss one issue or bill per letter. Give definite and concise reasons for your position. Be specific. A few facts and figures supporting your position will be more effective than just stating your opinion. Explain the impact of the legislation or issue on you and other constituents. What needs are being met or unmet? Provide facts. Suggest, don't demand, a course of action. Be constructive. If you have expert knowledge or wide experience on the subject of your letter, let the legislator know of your expertise. Don't be condescending – be forthright and helpful. Ask, tactfully, for a response, and provide a return address. Express your appreciation – say thanks. Appropriate forms of address and salutation US President President (full name) The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, DC 20500 Dear Mr./Ms./Mrs. President: US Senator The Honorable (full name) US Senator Washington DC address OR Oregon address (look up on the web through each Senator's page) (Use DC address when Congress is in session; otherwise use Oregon address) Dear Senator (last name): US Representative The Honorable (full name) US Representative Washington DC address OR Oregon address (look up on the web through each Representative's page) (Use DC address when Congress is in session; otherwise use Oregon address) Dear Congressman/Congresswoman (last name): Governor The Honorable (full name) Governor, State of Oregon 254 State Capitol Salem, OR 97310 Dear Governor (last name): State Senator The Honorable (full name) State Senator (if to President, use President of the Senate) Interim address(es) OR State Capitol address (Use State Capitol address when Legislature is in session; otherwise use interim address) Dear Senator (last name): State Representative The Honorable (full name) State Representative (if to Speaker, use Speaker of the House) Interim address OR State Capitol address (Use State Capitol address when Legislature is in session; otherwise use interim address) Dear Representative (last name): Superintendent of Public Instruction The Honorable (full name) Superintendent of Public Instruction Oregon Department of Education 255 Capitol Street NE Salem, OR 97310-0203 Dear Superintendent (last name): State Treasurer The Honorable (full name) State Treasurer 900 Court Se. NE, Rm 159 Salem OR 97301-4043 Dear Treasurer (last name): Commissioner of Labor and Industries The Honorable (full name) Commissioner of Labor and Industries 800 NE Oregon St. #32 Portland, OR 97232 Dear Commissioner (last name): Attorney General The Honorable (full name) Attorney General Oregon Department of Justice 1162 Court St. NE Salem, OR 97301-4096 Attorney General (last name): Secretary of State The Honorable (full name) Secretary of State 900 Court Street NE Capitol Room 136 Salem OR 97310-0722 Dear Secretary (last name): County Commissioner The Honorable (full name) County Commissioner Address City, State Zip Dear Mr./Mrs./Ms. (last name): Mayor The Honorable (full name) Mayor of (place name) Address City, State Zip Dear Mayor (last name): City Council Member Council Member (full name) (place name) City Council Address City, State Zip Dear Council Member (last name):

Youth Civic Engagement Summit Thank you for attending LWVOR's Youth Civic Engagement Summit! Learn more about Youth Council and our mission to educate young and soon-to-be voters! View or print the event program here. Please let us know about your experience at the event. Submit your event feedback form here . Agenda 10:00-10:20 Welcome/Intros/Setting Expectations/Group Norms 10:20-10:50 Workshop #1: Advocacy in Digital Spaces and How to Combat Misinformation and Disinformation 11:00-11:20 Networking/Community Building and/or Break 11:20-12:20 Workshop #2: Advocacy & Protest Safety w/ interactive zine-making session 12:20-12:30 Transition to lunch 12:30-1:15 Lunch 1:15-2:00 Workshop #3: Leap Into the Legislature (Includes interactive build your own elevator pitch session) 2:00-2:45 Roundtable/Q&A 2:45-3:00 Commitments/Closing/Thank yous Program and Other Resources Roundtable Q&A Submission Form Printable program available here , featuring Youth Council member bios and full event agenda See full Youth Council member bios DEIJ Toolkit (link available soon) Thank you to our sponsors and supporters! This program is made possible in part by a grant from Oregon Humanities and the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 2/13 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 Climate Emergency Priorities Other CE Bills Clean Energy Oregon Economic Analysis Oregon Treasury Climate Related Lawsuits: Oregon and… Volunteers Needed Climate Emergency Priorities By Claudia Keith The League has identified six priority CE policy and budget topics. Find in previous LR reports additional background on each priority. Following are updates on those six topics: 1. Natural and Working Lands : Establishes Natural and Working Lands (NWL) Fund, carbon sequestration opportunities…: Natural Climate Solutions SB 530 . Public Hearing was 2/15/23 in SEN E&E . Josie Koehne is leading this effort. The League provided supportive testimony . Sen Dembrow and OGWC Chair MacDonald testified . Here are the meeting materials . 2. Resilient Buildings (RB): Refer to the adopted Legislative Joint Task Force on Resilient Efficient Buildings (REB) Dec 13 Report . The League is an active RB coalition partner. BR campaign guiding principles . SB 868 , 869 , 870 and 871 were posted 2/9. They seem to be placeholders, watch for amendments. 3. Environmental Justice (EJ): 2023 Leg bills. The League joined the Worker Advocate Coalition on 2/13 and SB 593 is one of a number of bills the League will follow and likely support. The ‘Right to Refuse‘ dangerous work bill LC has not been posted yet. 4. Oregon Climate Action Commission (currently Oregon Global Warming Commission): Roadmap , SB 522 , will change "Oregon Global Warming Commission" to "Oregon Climate Action Commission" and modify membership and duties of commission and state greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets/goals. Find more about this Bill in Clean Energy LR below. SB 522 public hearing is Tuesday Feb 21 in Sen E&E . The League will provide supportive testimony. See OGWC Feb 3 Final Draft Roadmap Recommendations , the Roadmap Next Steps Commission Subcommittee’s final review of report is due February 21-24. The Roadmap is scheduled to be published and delivered to the Legislature by March 1. 5. Other Governor Climate / Carbon Policy Topics: See 20-04 Executive Order topics . This area includes other GHG emission mitigation/ reductions and new clean renewable energy (DOE), OHA public health, and DOT Dept of Transportation policy and funding bills. 6. CE related total 2023-2025 biennium budget: The governor’s budget * was published Jan 31; Kotek’s budget priorities . A main funding problem concerns how the favorable ending current period balance, estimated to be >$765M, can be used. It will take a 3/5 vote to pass this proposed change. ‘Kotek proposes spending $765M from reserves on homeless , other crises’| Statesman Journal. Other CE Bills - Supporting By Claudia Keith House Committee On Emergency Management, General Government, and Veterans Feb 16 2023 Hearing includes these climate related bills with League testimony. HB 2601 Oregon FF Divestment: The League provided supportive testimony for Fossil Fuel (FF) Divestment: … Requires State Treasurer to address the urgency and risk associated with Fossil Fuel energy investments. Chief Sponsors: Rep Pham K, Senator Golden, Rep Gamba. HB 2763 Create a State public bank Task Force, Rep Gamba, Sen Golden, Rep Walters. The League provided testimony . Other CE Bills – May Support By Claudia Keith The League may support or just follow these bills. This is a preliminary list; a number of bills are not yet posted to OLIS. Natural Working Lands: See Rep Pham’s urban forestry bill, HB 3016 , Rep Holvey’s severance tax bill, HB 3025 to replace the harvest tax, and ODF’s Regular Harvest tax bill, HB 2087 . SB 88 climate smart Ag increases net carbon sequestration and storage in natural and working lands. Requested: Senate Interim Committee on Natural Resources and Wildfire Recovery. See Keep Oregon Cool, Natural Working Lands. Green Infrastructure: HB 3016 community green infrastructure, Rep Pham K, Senator Dembrow, Rep Gamba. Public & Green Banking: SB501 Bank of the state of Oregon Sen Golden. Interstate 5 Bridge Legislation: Interstate Bridge Replacement Program (IBRP) factsheet ODOT and WDOT . 12 Things the Oregon Legislature Should Know About IBRP - Just Crossing Alliance. It is likely policy and or just funding bills will be heard and likely moved by this IBRP Legislative Joint Committee . The goal: ‘Replacing the aging Interstate Bridge with a modern, earthquake resilient, multimodal structure is a high priority for Oregon and Washington…. ‘. Clean Energy By Kathy Moyd Activity Last Week and Next Week. There were no Clean Energy bill Public Hearings during the period prior to 2/14.Two Clean Energy bills have public hearings between 2/14 and next week. Oregon Economic Analysis By Claudia Keith The next Oregon Economic and Revenue Forecast is scheduled for Feb 22. It is unclear how the congressional debt ceiling issue, security market volatility, inflation – Fed/banking issues and other global risks will develop. The last State of Oregon quarterly forecast assumed a likely mild recession in 2023. Oregon Bond rating continues to be above average. The Oregon Office of Economic Analysis has never conformed to what is now recommended in the SEC Climate Risk disclosure rule. SEC Plans to Finalize See supportive LWVOR-initiated LWVUS Testimony , June 2022. Oregon Treasury By Claudia Keith It is unclear how Oregon Treasury / Treasurer Tobias will assist with addressing the $27B Federal funds, which are contingent on formation of an Oregon Green Bank. New York, California, and Connecticut Green Bank; some are a function of the State Treasury. EPA outlines $27B 'green bank' for clean energy projects | AP News. EPA giving out $27 billion in 'green bank' loans | Fortune. Related News: Why your company may soon be hiring an 'ESG controller' | Fortune. SEC weighs making 'adjustments' to controversial climate risk disclosure rule , Chairman Gensler says| CNBS. Investors should not expect much relief from volatility | Financial Times. Rescuing ESG from the Culture Wars | HBR. It's concerning to the League how these major issues will affect Oregon’s economy. Climate Related Lawsuits: Oregon and… By Claudia Keith Numerous lawsuits are challenging Oregon’s DEQ CPP regulations. Here is one example of how to track them. Basically, there are a number of active state and federal lawsuits , (Feb 2023 update) some of which could assist in meeting Oregon's Net Zero GHG Emissions before 2050 targets and other lawsuits, which challenge current Oregon DEQ CPP policy, which would limit the use of fossil fuels, including diesel, natural gas, and propane over time. Another source: Columbia University Law - Sabin Climate DB lists 60 lawsuits with OREGON mentioned. A Lawsuit Against Big Oil Gets Personal - The New York Times Oregon and National News: Oregon city's gas ban continues spread across the West | Energy News Network. Possible oil pipeline expansion on the table in Oregon | KTVL. Rogue Valley residents call for more input on Northwest pipeline expansion – OPB. Why officials in the Pacific Northwest are only now deciding how to regulate crypto mining – OPB. Alert! Tougher Reporting Mandates Ahead for Data Centers | Data Center Knowledge | News and analysis for the data center industry. Oregon State University researcher to help lead $25 million nuclear forensics project | Oregon State University. Tolls are coming to Portland-area freeways , and even tolling fans worry they’ll stack up - oregonlive.com . Interstate Bridge Design Could Change to Single Level | WW. 3 Alarming Threats To The U.S. Energy Grid – Cyber, Physical, And Existential Events| Forbes. Utility Explores Converting Coal Plants into Nuclear Power - Scientific American. FACT SHEET: Biden-Harris Administration Announces New Standards and Major Progress for a Made-in-America National Network of Electric Vehicle Chargers - The White House Volunteers Needed By Claudia Keith Request to Local Leagues; please let us know your climate, resilience, or sustainability advocacy actions. Please consider joining the CE portfolio team; we lack volunteers in these critical policy and law areas: Natural and Working lands, specifically 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 Oregon Treasury: ESG investing/Fossil Fuel divestment We collaborate with Natural Resource Action members on many Climate Change mitigation and adaptation policy topics. Volunteers are needed: The 2023 legislative session began Jan 17. If any area of Climate Emergency interests you, please contact Claudia Keith , CE Coordinator. Orientation to Legislative and State Agency advocacy processes is available.

Back to All Legislative Reports Natural Resources Legislative Report - November Interim 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 Air Quality Budgets/Revenue Climate Coastal Issues Dept. of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) Dept. of State Lands (DSL) Drinking Water Advisory Board Elliott State Research Forest Forestry Land Use Radioactive Waste Reduce/Recycle Regional Solutions Water Wildfire Volunteers Needed By Peggy Lynch, Natural Resources Coordinator, and Team Volunteers are still needed to cover important issues like Air Quality, Recycling and Toxics. The League needs your voices! Training provided. The Ford Family Foundation’s 2023 "Oregon by the Numbers" provides data that may be helpful for all areas of state and local policy work. HCR 38 (2023) sets the process for the February 2024 short session that runs Feb. 5 through March 10th. The legislative calendar is posted on the Oregon Legislature website . There were three days of legislative meetings Nov. 6-8 and one more set of interim days January 10-12. Agriculture On Oct. 11 th , Governor Tina Kotek appointed Lisa Charpilloz Hanson, current Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) Executive Director, to lead the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA). The Oregon Senate will take up her confirmation as permanent director in January. “Oregon faces complex natural resources challenges across our state that require data-driven, resilient solutions,” Governor Kotek said. “Lisa Charpilloz Hanson brings decades of experience working with natural resource communities to meet the needs of Oregonians across the state. I look forward to seeing her great work and leadership at the agency.” The League looks forward to working with Lisa in her new role while we will miss her excellent leadership at OWEB. Having been Deputy Director at ODA, we are confident she knows the many responsibilities of ODA. Air Quality DEQ invites public input on proposed permanent rule amendments to chapter 340 of the Oregon Administrative Rules to increase Title V operating permit fees as authorized by HB 3229 which the League supported . The proposed fee increases are necessary for DEQ to provide essential services associated with Oregon’s Title V permitting program. DEQ will propose the rules to the EQC in January 2024. DEQ is seeking public comment on the proposed rule amendments. More information, including the draft rules, can be found on the Title V Fee Increase 2023 Rulemaking web page . DEQ will only consider comments on the proposed rule amendments that DEQ receives by 4 p.m., on Dec. 1, 2023. Budgets/Revenue By Peggy Lynch 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%. On Nov. 15, the House and Senate Revenue Committees heard the latest Revenue Forecast. The net General Fund and Lottery resources are up $790.3 million (2.3%) from the 2023 Close of Session estimate. A new bonding capacity report is due mid-January. The next revenue forecast is Feb. 7th and that will be the number used for 2024 budgeting. Here is the Legislative Revenue Office report and here are the Office of Economic Analysis slides. Those slides included information about Oregon’s population, employment and housing. One piece of good news was that the poverty rate for all Oregonians has decreased. In Nov. 2023, only half of the school bond or levy measures passed. We still don’t have the statistics of other money measures since final results won’t be available until the end of November. Here is a good video on property taxes in Oregon. Oregonlive provided an article on the status of PERS for 2025: “The Oregon Public Employees Retirement System ended last year with a $28 billion unfunded liability to meet its projected pension obligations. Cutting the deficit would require some combination of higher investment returns or raising the amount of money contributed by employers like schools, libraries and local governments. Based on the financial picture at the end of 2022, Milliman told the board that it could expect average contribution rates for the system’s 900-plus employers to rise by 1.7% of payroll, pushing the average rate above 27 cents in every payroll dollar. That would be their highest levels ever and require an extra $1.3 billion in contributions from employers in the next two-year budget cycle – money that would otherwise be available to spend on public services.” This information is important as state agencies and others calculate their 2025 budget needs. 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 Coos County LWV sponsored an informational program at the Egyptian Theatre on estuaries as part of their educational programs as they approach opportunities to update the Estuary Management Plan ( AM-22-005 ) for the Coos Bay Estuary. The program is available on their YouTube channel. There have been many meetings with regional DLCD staff, county and city planners regarding the estuary management plan. LWV Coos members provided information to planners and they plan to provide testimony for the final hearings. Oregon State University received a grant to study attitudes on offshore wind. The federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) received comments related to proposed ocean energy sites offshore from Brookings and Coos Bay, even extending the public comment period as requested by the tribes. Information is available on the BOEM Oregon state activities page . Rep. David Gomberg attended the State of the Coast event held Nov. 4 in Newport that provided an educational opportunity on several research updates: Oregon State University - State of the Coast 2023 - YouTube . The morning session recording has an update by Karina Nelson at 1:14 in the video on offshore wind. Dept. of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) By Peggy Lynch The League continues to follow the Grassy Mountain Gold Project in Malheur County, using a streamlined permitting process. On Oct. 4, the multi-agency Technical Review Team approved the Grassy Mountain Consolidated Permit Application as complete! There is still at least another year of process before the project begins—a long time since the first application back in 2012. There have been ownership changes and a number of incomplete applications, making this process longer than it might otherwise have been. Here is the latest on this project. See page 2 of this DOGAMI newsletter for a report on the Grassy Mountain Gold Mine application. “This is the first consolidated mining permit application in Oregon.” The League will be seeking feedback from the state agencies and the applicant regarding how this process worked for each of them and for Oregon. We hope to hear from the general public as well related to their view of the process because, if perceived as successful, this consolidated permitting process may be used in the future for complicated projects that need multiple permits. Dept. of State Lands (DSL) By Peggy Lynch Oregon’s Abandoned and Derelict Vessel Workgroup will meet Nov. 21 st and Dec. 5 th . An Oregon Capital Chronicle article explains the potential environmental damage and the need to create a long term plan with on-going financing. See DSL’s website for more information, including public engagement opportunities. The League has been engaged in funding for this project for many years. Drinking Water Advisory Committee By Sandra Bishop The Drinking Water Advisory Committee (DWAC) met Oct 18 with approximately 25 people attending to discuss the process and expected procedures for public water systems to complete the federally required Lead Service Line Inventory. The object is for public water systems to identify and remove lead and downstream galvanized pipe. Training will be offered specific to what and how to report. How to prioritize disadvantaged districts was part of the discussion. EPA’s main objective is removal of lead service lines. In Oregon, most water systems do not currently have lead lines and many have never had lead service lines. (However, pipes in older houses may have lead—a personal expense to address.) It was pointed out that even for the larger systems, if there are no records, it is very difficult to show there was no lead. How do you provide documentation of something that doesn’t exist? The American Water Works Association (AWWA) Water Utility Council is meeting to discuss this. Recruitment is underway for seven staff positions. Five new Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) positions were approved by the 2023 Oregon Legislature. Four of them are waiting for Dept. of Administrative Services (DAS) to approve job descriptions and salary ranges. Positions to be filled include program, fiscal, and research analyst positions; a Natural Resource Specialist and a Regulatory Manager. This is partially driven by the need to track and account for federal funds. The final PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) regulations will come out at the end of the year. The state will have up to two years to develop regulations after the rule is final. Implications of this rule include possibly requiring treatment costing approximately $50 billion. At last determination there were 25 public water systems with measurable PFAS detected in Oregon; 20 exceed EPA proposed MCLs (maximum contaminant levels), and two exceed Oregon HALs (Health Advisory Levels of 30 ppt). One well continues to be used under public advisory notice. It was noted that two years is likely not enough time for the Oregon rulemaking process, after development of federal rules. It is expected to be the same for all states. Cybersecurity was discussed. Following a lawsuit filed in several states, EPA withdrew a memo containing an interpretation of cybersecurity in sanitary surveys. Another concern raised was about OHA collecting data without a clear indication of what will be done with the data, as in the case of capacity assessments. First year funding for Lead Service Line Replacement has declined because there were no projects. Second year funding is available. Water systems can ask for partial funding. Outreach is ongoing for this. Funding will not be received before inventories are completed. There are small, disadvantaged under-served systems with compliance problems; many are priority non-compliers (PNCs). These are systems out of compliance for longer than six months. A total of 800 very small systems often lack financial and technical assistance. There is some good news. The Warm Springs Tribe has been awarded a small grant and EPA has approved larger funding for work on their water system. The Annual Drinking Water Protection Report is on DEQ’s webpage. Oregon Water Enhancement Board (OWEB) is gearing up for grants for land purchase to protect land permanently to enhance drinking water protection. Public water systems over 3,300 must address potential contamination sources in Emergency Response Plans. It was pointed out that drinking water protection areas often have mental and physical co-benefits such as walking trails, wetlands, and other beneficial uses. The next DWAC meeting is January 17th. Elliott State Research Forest (ESRF) By Peggy Lynch A Nov 14 bombshell announcement from DSL Director Vicki Walker! “Yesterday, Oregon State University President Jayathi Y. Murthy informed the State Land Board and the Department of State Lands that OSU is no longer in a position to participate in management of the Elliott State Research Forest. The Elliott remains a public forest under DSL’s oversight, and the State Land Board has provided clear desire and direction for the creation of the Elliott State Research Forest.” The League has been engaged in the Elliott since well before 2016 when we provided this Op Ed to Oregon newspapers. In 2020, we supported the OSU proposal with concerns around governance and finance. In Feb of 2022, we supported SB 1546 that created the new Elliott State Research Forest Authority—a new state agency to begin January 1, 2024, that established a mission, governance and management policies for the agency with deadlines for accomplishing the various tasks in the bill. This bill addressed our concerns around governance, but the fiscal issues have not been addressed, the issue that has caused OSU to back away: their research proposal required an increase in harvest beyond what the public had assumed. Until the issue around finance is addressed, the forest continues to be in jeopardy. The legislature gave the "new" agency $4.1 million as a budget for the next 18 months and will need to go through the budget process for the 2025-27 session. A prospective Board was appointed, many of whom had been part of an advisory committee for years prior, and will meet again on Dec. 4 th to discuss these new developments. (Paul Beck and Dr. Jennifer Allen resigned in October.) Oregonians need to thank this dedicated group as they work to make the Elliott a great place where it will “continue to contribute to conservation, recreation, education, indigenous culture, and local economies as a research forest.” Visit DSL's Elliott webpage to learn more . Meeting videos are posted to the DSL YouTube channel and meeting notes are posted to DSL's Elliott website . Work is continuing on eventual adoption of a Habitat Conservation Plan and a Forest Management Plan for the forest. Forestry We hope Oregonians helped shape the future of Oregon’s forests by participating in an Oregon’s Kitchen Table survey. Look for a story with results of the survey in an upcoming report. Per Oregon Capital Chronicle : “The federal researchers found “unequivocally” that forested land provides the cleanest, most stable water supply of any land type.” The League was pleased to see this quote resembling one in our 2009 Water in Oregon- Not a Drop to Waste Study. Fire Season has come to an end: Year to date, there have been 975 fires on ODF-protected lands resulting in 17,968 acres burned. Three ODF Type 1 Incident Management Teams (IMT) were deployed this season: one to the Golden Fire in the Klamath-Lake District, and two to the Tyee Ridge Complex in the Douglas Forest Protective Association district. Statewide to date, regardless of jurisdiction, there have been 1,909 fires that have burned 190,507 acres. ODF protects about 16 million acres of private, county, state and federal forest and grazing lands in Oregon. Forty-nine homes and 78 structures burned around the state. It was the third-highest number since 2015. So far, state and federal agencies have spent $484 million on the 2023 wildfires, and that number is likely to increase as fire teams submit their final bills. It's the third-most expensive season since 2015 and by far the most expensive per acre season in the same period. For more information, see the Wildfire section of this report below. Land Use & Housing By Peggy Lynch The League continues to engage with the Governor’s Office and legislators as we work to address needed housing for all Oregonians. We first need to address the underproduction of housing from past years—with a majority of housing unit needs for Oregonians whose income is 80% or lower AMI (average median income). The League will continue to focus on policies that address this need. While Natural Resources works on the land use side where infrastructure is needed to provide buildable lots, our Housing Team will be working on funding and housing policies for those Oregonians. DLCD provided information on Goal 10 and the UGB process to Senate Housing on Nov. 6 th . The Governor’s Housing Production Advisory Council continues to meet and will deliver a final report to the Governor in December (or January!). The League has always supported our statewide land use planning program with local implementation. We are seeing that local element eroded by some of the recommendations. See the LWVOR testimony website where the plethora of our testimony is posted. Subscribe for notices of HPAC meetings. We continue to work with partners, with the Governor’s Office and legislators, as we expect bills in the 2024 session that we may want to support or oppose. The Land Conservation and Development Commission (LCDC) is seeking volunteers to serve as a member of the state’s Citizen Involvement Advisory Committee (CIAC). CIAC members are appointed by LCDC to provide advice on community engagement in land use planning. The current CIAC recruitment is for one member representing Oregon's first Congressional District, which covers Clatsop, Columbia, Washington, and Yamhill Counties and portions of SW Portland in Multnomah County. Applications are due by 9am November 22, 2023. They are also providing an information session on the CIAC on Dec. 8 th via zoom. See also the Housing Report in the Social Policy section of this Legislative Report. Radioactive Waste By Shirley Weathers The Energy Facilities Siting Commission (EFSC) held the required public hearing on proposed rules revisions for OAR 345-050 relating to radioactive waste on October 19, 2023. LWVOR submitted comments dated October 23, 2023. EFSC will consider the rules and public comment at its November 17, 2023 meeting . Of interest is that ODOE staff noted in their Background and Summary Statement to the Commission that LWVOR submitted the only written comment on the proposed rules. They outlined a central concern and recommendation to the Commission as it takes action. Additional materials can be found on the ODOE website (scroll down to Radioactive Waste Materials). The LWVOR Advocacy Committee and Board of Directors thank Shirley Weathers for her many hours of work on this and other important issues. We will miss her and wish her all the best as she leaves Oregon and will, we are sure, engage in League at her new home. Reduce/Recycle The White House held a comprehensive highly informative webinar to talk about the national landscape for repair legislation in late October. Watch here . In Oregon, in the 2024 short session, Sen. Sollman is bringing back the Right to Repair concept, focusing on consumer electronic equipment like cell phones and laptops, and household appliances. The League supported the 2023 Right to Repair bill, SB 542 , which did not pass. The fourth Recycling Modernization Act Rulemaking Advisory Committee meeting has been scheduled for Jan. 31 st , 2024. The Zoom meeting registration link has now been posted to the Recycling 2024 webpage: Register via Zoom . To learn more about this rulemaking and the advisory committee, view the rulemaking web page: Recycling Updates 2024 . Regional Solutions The Regional Solutions Team ( November 14 th report ) is working hard across the state. Great news is the infrastructure work both listed and being worked on across the state. With increased infrastructure, we may see more housing. Water By Peggy Lynch The League continues to be concerned about our fellow Oregonians in Morrow and Umatilla counties where well water may be unsafe for drinking. Because many homes are for agriculture workers who speak other than English and whose culture causes wariness of government, Oregon’s Oregon Health Authority needs to find better ways to reach out according to the Oregon Capital Chronicle : The nitrate pollution stems in part from agricultural fertilizers and animal manure used on nearby farms. Nitrate-laced water is unsafe to drink above 10 milligrams per liter, according to the federal Environmental Protection Agency and can cause serious health effects if consumed over long periods. Update Oct. 31 st : DEQ and Port of Morrow settle permit violations”… $1,933,721 to support safe drinking water efforts in the area, including water testing, treatment, and delivery, and pay a $483,430 civil penalty to the state treasury.” KGW’s "The Story" did a series on this important public health issue the week of Nov. 13. OWRD anticipates releasing a draft of the updated Integrated Water Resources Strategy for public review and comment in early January. For more information about this process, please visit the IWRS page . OWRD is considering new Groundwater Rules because “many of Oregon’s 20 groundwater basins are being sucked dry faster than water can naturally be replaced, according to the agency,” per a November Oregon Capital Chronicle (OCC) article . The League is watching this work closely and looks forward to the Water Resources Commission adoption of this first set of updated rules which can then lead to updated Critical Groundwater designations as the data determines it necessary. Meanwhile, many Oregonians are experiencing dry household wells. In another OCC article , the League was pleased to see a quote similar to one in our 2009 Water Study : “The federal researchers found “unequivocally” that forested land provides the cleanest, most stable water supply of any land type.” The League again asked Congress to expand the Smith River National Recreation Area. 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 advisories have been issued or lifted for specific water bodies. League members may want to check the U. S. Drought Monitor Map , 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 and Lincoln counties. On Nov. 7 th , the Governor declared a drought in Morrow County through Executive Order 23-25 and directed state agencies to coordinate and prioritize assistance to the region. The forecasted El Nino weather pattern may mean a reduced snowpack this winter in the north while we may see a greater snowpack in southern Oregon. Wildfire By Carolyn Mayers The League observed a number of informational meetings and updates relating to wildfire, on November 6 and 7, covering a variety of topics. The common thread through all the meetings was funding, or lack thereof, and the potential consequences of that reality. Investments in wildfire suppression resulting from SB 762 - the sweeping 2021 wildfire legislation, had a significant impact on the effectiveness of response during the 2023 wildfire season. The recent sizable funding reductions threaten to reverse much of the progress made. “Landscape Resiliency” was also a major theme, with a repeated message that suppression is becoming increasingly difficult with increases in fire behavior unpredictability and the buildup of fuels. Western Oregon was a new focus since there were a number of what would be considered “unusual” numbers of wildfires there due to a dry lightning event and other factors. Details and links to additional information may be found below. The Senate Natural Resources and Wildfire met first on November 6. Mike Shaw, Chief of Fire Protection for Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), provided a 2023 wildfire season review : Lauded the ODF wildfire personnel fire suppression efforts. Highlighted the role the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s (OFSM) department played, especially in early response and limiting structure losses. Pointed out “suppression isn’t going to be the answer,” stressing the need to manage the heavy load of fire fuels in forests as a critical part of long-term wildfire mitigation strategy. Expressed the “efficient” (not in a good way) nature of dry lightning storms in northwestern Oregon as a unique feature of this fire season, with the reasonable expectation of it repeating in the future. Yet, in spite of nearly 500 fires started by the lightning event, total acreage burned across Oregon was held to 15% of the 10-year average in spite of a near-average number of fires, with significantly higher cost per acre. Most wildfires this season were human-caused. Next up were Derrick Wheeler, ODF Legislative Coordinator, and Brandon Pursinger, Legislative Affairs Manager for Natural Resources Policy for the Association of Oregon Counties, who gave a detailed update on the Wildfire Hazard Map and the process undertaken to ensure that public input is appropriately considered as required by SB 80 , the 2023 wildfire legislation. Meetings were held with County officials throughout the State, and the process continues until the ultimate release of the new map sometime in 2024. OSFM Chief Mariana Ruiz-Temple spoke briefly about how it is important to continue to build on the “framework” that SB 762 laid out for Community Risk Reduction. She described how her department has rolled out an educational campaign and is conducting Defensible Space assessments around Oregone. OFSM has launched a Defensible Space website . Enter your home address for a multitude of resources to help make your home more resilient in the face of increasing wildfire risk, including the ability to schedule a home assessment. She closed by saying it will take decades of public education work to make a dent in overall risk reduction. Doug Grafe, the Governor’s Wildfire and Military Advisor, followed with a bleak overview of the state of wildfire programs’ funding, current vs. previous. He also emphasized, “We cannot suppress our way out of this.”, while stressing the importance of community preparedness (which lost 90% of its funding), landscape resiliency and fuels reduction. Dylan Kruse, Vice President of Sustainable Northwest, also covered funding and long-term strategy in his presentation , pointing out that while California provides $1.3 billion in wildfire programs funding, and Washington, $118 million, Oregon only spends $42 million, which is not nearly enough to sustain any progress made, let alone make further progress. He emphasized the need for “sufficient, consistent funding”. Members of the Governor’s Wildfire Programs Advisory Council (WPAC) were next with outgoing Chair Mark Bennettlisting what he saw as priorities, among them public health-related investment to help deal with smoke events: Fire Adapted Communities/Firewise programs to enhance community preparedness, wildfire recovery and several other items. He was followed by Dave Hunnicutt, incoming WPAC Chair, who expressed extreme disappointment in the funding situation, and how reducing funding for defensible space/community preparedness is the opposite of what needs to be done, since defensible space can reduce risk to a home by as much as 80%. Mary Kyle McCurdy, incoming Vice-Chair, closed by pointing out that much of SB 762 funding was one-time funding. She also revealed that a new WPAC focus will be on much-needed and previously largely overlooked evacuation and emergency response planning as part of regional transportation planning. See the Council’s Annual Report . Later on November 6, the House Climate and Energy heard a presentation by Doug Grafe and Senator Elizabeth Steiner that outlined the Wildfire Funding Workgroup work. This group was formed to look for solutions to the overly complex current funding structure for landowner fire protection assessment rates, and the offsets to them that lost $15 million in funding in the last session. Sen. Steiner said these partnerships are a cornerstone of “our highly functioning response”, and not funding the offsets risks “dismantling the system if the protection district charges don’t get funding.” She relayed they were making excellent progress in spite of widely differing views among participants because they share the common goal of fixing the system and getting it funded. November 7, OSFM Chief Ruiz-Temple presented a 2023 Wildfire & Conflagration update to the Senate Veterans, Emergency Management, Federal and World Affairs, pointing to the OSFM Biennial Wildfire Report for additional information. Regarding the dry lightning storms, she stated, “…one of the most alarming indicators is more fires on the west side”, and that “these communities are not prepared.” She repeated her concern from October informational meetings, for the decrease in volunteerism among firefighters and that there was a need to assist local fire departments with capacity. She also repeated the sentiments of Mike Shaw, ODF, saying, “Wildfires are outpacing our capacity to suppress.”, and we need to focus on prevention. She closed by urging the Committee to provide funding for investment in communities and resilient landscapes, and that those investments would save billions of dollars over the long run. Finally, Chief Ruiz-Temple presented another wildfire update to House Emergency Management, General Government and Veterans. Much of the content was largely a repeat of the previous presentation, including another commentary on the dangers of the new reality of fires in western Oregon. She emphasized “These communities don’t have the tools that other communities have.”, and they are “…not used to living with wildfire. See her presentation . California has passed a law requiring a 5-foot defensive space around homes in the wildland-urban interface (WUI), effective 2025. There are currently potentially fewer than 100,000 tax lots that may be considered in Oregon’s WUI. Oregon is focusing on helping Oregonians address defensible space on their properties with no current requirements. Volunteers Needed What is your passion related to Natural Resources? You can help. Volunteers are needed. The short 2024 legislative session is Feb. 5-March 10. Natural Resource Agency Boards and Commissions meet regularly year-round and need monitoring. If any area of natural resources interests you, please contact Peggy Lynch, Natural Resources Coordinator, at peggylynchor@gmail.com . Training will be offered.

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: After School and Summer Age Discrimination Education Healthcare Housing Legislation Immigration After School and Summer By Katie Riley The summer learning bill, HB 2007 and its funding companion, HB 5047 , which provides $35 million have now passed both the House and the Senate and are waiting for the Governor to sign, which she has promised to do. ODE held a webinar for interested school and community representatives on April 18th in which they noted the importance of the passage of HB 2007 in establishing a permanent recognition of summer learning by the legislature and the opportunity to prepare further ahead than a year-to-year last-minute scramble to plan and implement summer programs. In contrast with previous summer learning funding, the bill emphasizes literacy and the need to assess the amount of learning that occurs whether it be in reading or content areas for credit recovery. Participating districts need to partner with at least one community based organization; however, they cannot subcontract the entire grant to another organization-- a partnership needs to be established. The slides from the webinar provide additional information as well as links to a sample application form and resource materials. Further information, including eligibility of school districts, tribes, and ESD's will be available in the next two weeks after the bill has been signed. Priority will be given to participating sites where reading is below grade level. ODE representatives are available to answer questions. The Capitol Chronicle published a good article about the bill. The League provided testimony commenting on the bill. Age Discrimination HB 3187A passed the House. As amended, the bill prohibits an employer from requiring or requesting disclosure of an applicant’s’ date of birth or date of graduation unless a conditional offer of employment is made or age is a job qualification. The League provided testimony . Education By Jean Pierce Bills of interest which passed the House: HB 2251 which directs school districts to adopt a policy that prohibits the use of student personal electronic devices during the school day passed the House with bipartisan support. It would be up to districts how to implement the policy. HB 2682 Directs the Department of Education to establish an advisory committee to study and develop recommendations to modernize the adequate service levels for early intervention and early childhood special education in this state. (Currently the League has no position addressing Special Education. This is being proposed in the K-12 Study.) Impact of federal actions in Oregon K-12 The Oregon Department of Education is publishing information about how schools and districts are impacted by federal actions. The page includes a link to Guidance for schools upholding rights of immigrant students . The National Education Association has published a resource showing how federal dollars support students and educators in public schools in each state. The same page has links to the data for each Congressional District. Although the federal government has cut funding for the National History Day Competition , the event will proceed as planned in Oregon due to the generosity of private donors. Higher Education In March it was revealed that the University of Oregon is one of about 50 universities under investigation by the Trump administration for alleged racial discrimination , Recently, faculty at U of Oregon passed a statement regarding resisting pressure from the Trump administration. However, they have not yet joined with other Big !0 Universities which are forming a Nato-style Mutual Academic Defense Compact. The Compact states that “preservation of one institution’s integrity is the concern of all and an infringement against one member university of the Big Ten shall be considered an infringement against all”. Healthcare By Christa Danielson SB 951A prohibits a management service organization from making decisions about patient care. The bill also prohibits non-compete, non-disparage employment clauses in medical work’s contracts. This will allow caregivers to speak out without fear of reprisal if they feel there is a safety issue at the workplace involving patient care. It was passed by the Senate and will be heard in House Behavioral Health and Health Care on May 1. Housing By Nancy Donovan and Debbie Aiona LWVOR has submitted testimony on a number of housing-related bills during the session. Following is a status report on the bills we supported: HB 2735 A : Increases cap on tax credits for donations made to the state-selected agency that administers Oregon’s Individual Development Account program. LWV testimony supports passage of the bill. The bill was referred to the House Committee on Revenue on April 8 and scheduled for a House Committee on Revenue public hearing on April 22. HB 2964 : Requires Oregon Housing and Community Development to award loans to non-profit affordable housing developers to cover pre-development costs of developing new housing. LWV testimony supports passage of the bill. The bill passed the House on April 15 and was referred to the Senate. SB 973 : Requires landlords of publicly supported housing to notify applicants when the affordability contract will expire. Also extends from 20 months to 30 months the minimum notice landlords must give tenants when affordability restrictions will expire. LWV testimony supports passage of this bill. The bill passed the Senate on April 2. The House Committee on Housing and Homelessness will hold a public hearing on April 23. SB 814 A : Expands eligibility for Oregon Housing and Community Services long-term rent assistance program to youth under the age of 25 exiting Oregon Youth Authority or child care facility. League testimony supports passage of the bill. It passed the Senate 30 – 0 on March 6. Public hearing was held in the House Committee on Housing and Homelessness on April 16. HB 2958 : Increases the amount of the earned income tax credit. Provides that the credit is available to all adults over the age of 18, including childless adults. LWV testimony supports passage of this bill. The House Revenue Committee held a hearing on February 25. SB 1155 : Directs Oregon Housing and Community Services to establish a pilot project to assist pregnant persons and their immediate family to attain stable housing. LWV testimony supports passage of the bill. Referred to Senate Housing and Development Committee on March 3 and then to Ways and Means. HB 3507 : Directs Oregon Housing and Community Services to expand eligibility for its homeownership downpayment assistance program to include moderate-income households and individuals, including first-generation homebuyers. Assistance would be offered by culturally-specific organizations. LWV testimony supported passage of this bill. This bill will not advance. SB 722 : Prohibits residential landlords from using certain software to set rents. Reduces from 15 years to seven the number of years new dwelling units would be exempt from caps on rent increases. LWV testimony supported passage of this bill. SB 722 will not advance. HB 2968 : Oregon Housing and Community Services would guarantee a housing developer’s payment of system development charges until 180 days after the certificate of occupancy has been issued. LWV testimony supported passage of this bill. HB 2968 was referred to Ways and Means on 3/28. Immigration By Becky Gladstone and Claudia Keith Many Latinos in Oregon are hesitant to draw attention to themselves. So some cities are cancelling Cinco de Mayo celebrations this year . Earlier in April, ICE authorities released a Venezuelan man who was being detained unlawfully in Oregon. This week the Supreme Court temporarily blocked deportations of Venezuelans held in northern Texas. Please refer to to Legislative BIPOC Caucus for additional INFO: Bill # Description Policy Committee Status Fiscal M$ Chief Sponsors+ Comments SB 149 Immigration Study JWM waiting for Fiscal Y Sen Jama SB 599A Immig status: discrimination in RealEstate transactions H Judiciary Sen Campos SB 611 Food for All Oregonians - for undocumented JWM 8 Sen Campos Rep Ruiz SB 703 a bipartisan immigration status update funding bill JWM 6 Sen Reynolds, Rep Neron, Ruiz, Smith G HB 2548 Agricultural Workforce Labor Standards Board. H Rules PC: No recommen dation Rep Valderrama, Nelson , Munoz 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 HB 2586 A nonresident tuition exemption for asylum seekers. Sen Ed RepHudson, SenCampos HB 2543 Funds for universal representation and gives funds to Oregon State Bar for legal immigration matters HC Jud ? 15 Rep Valderrama, Sen Manning Jr, Rep Walters, Andersen, McLain, Sen Campos HB3193A Farm Worker Relief Fund JWM 10 Rep Marsh, SenPham, RepValderrama HB 5002 Oregon Worker Relief Fund / JCWM-GG ? 7 Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Climate Emergency , Governance , and Natural Resources , and Revenue report sections.

Vouchers are an internal resource for tracking expenses. / Reimbursement / Reimbursement Forms Instructions for Reimbursement Forms Please download the Excel Spreadsheet to fill out the voucher. Expense/Donation Voucher (Excel) After completing the form, it must be e-mailed or delivered to the person who is approving the expense. Please attach all receipts. If it is not possible to scan in receipts for e-mailed reimbursement forms, they may be mailed directly to the office with your name and date of reimbursement form printed on each. The person approving the expense has two options. If approving the expense by e-mail, attach thereimbursement form and scanned receipts, if any, to an e-mail with the following statement in the body of the e-mail: I, (your name) approve payment of the reimbursement form dated (date) for (payee’s name) in the amount of ($ to be paid). If approving the reimbursement form by paper delivery, sign in the approval signature box and include receipts. The reimbursement form may then be submitted with copies going to both the League office and to the treasurer. Reimbursement forms will not be paid without approval. It is very helpful to the treasurer if reimbursement forms are presented for payment in the month that they occur. It is imperative that all reimbursement forms be received before the annual closing of the books on June 30th. Please contact lwvor@lwvor.org with any questions.

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: Afterschool and Summer School Criminal Justice Gun Safety Healthcare Educatio n Housing Legislation Afterschool and Summer School, Child Care By Katie Riley During the November Legislative Days hearings, The Ways and Means Subcommittee on Education held informational briefings on early learning as well as education regarding costs, performance considerations, and proposed cuts due to the pending loss of $880 million in federal funds. Child Care: In response to the Governor’s request to outline potential budget cuts of 5% and 2.5 %, the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) recommended that no cuts be made to the Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program and the Early Learning Parent Education program at the 2.5% level. Overall, recommendations showed potential cuts to administrative functions prior to programs. Programs with Reductions at 2.5% and 5.0% Scenarios 21.0M $2.4M $36.7M These are listed in prioritized order for reductions, and most are not targeted for a full 2.5% for the first scenario. Other Early Learning Grants Child Care Supports Early Learning Hubs Early Learning Professional Development Early Learning Program Supports Oregon Prenatal to Kindergarten 5 Preschool Promise Health Families Oregon Relief Nurseries Early Childhood Equity Fund Programs Held Harmless for both 2.5% and 5% reductions Baby Promise Birth to Five Literacy Kindergarten Partnership Innovation Tribal Early Learning Plan & Fund (Early Learning Tribal Hub) Every Child Belongs (Mental Health & Behavior Supports) No decisions were made on reductions. Long-term effects, alternative funding sources, reserves, and income potential will all be considered. On the plus side, a report from Jessica LaBerge on 11-18-25 representing the Eastern Oregon Childcare Business Accelerator for the Southern Oregon Regional Solutions Exchange reported that the business accelerator has started its first cohort of 13 potential childcare providers across Eastern Oregon. This program will help provide childcare businesses with small business advising, childcare educational credits, curriculum support and ongoing assistance with the business side of childcare. The goal is for the participants to be fully licensed and opening their own childcare business to provide additional capacity for Eastern Oregon communities. She is hoping to find additional funding to start a Spanish speaking cohort and additional cohorts in the future. Afterschool Care New data on the demand and need for afterschool care was included in the report, America After 3 pm , published by the Afterschool Alliance, October 2025 Citing the most recent survey of over 30,000 parents nationwide, the Afterschool Alliance Executive Director Jodi Grant said “Families at all income levels want afterschool opportunities and those with resources invest heavily in afterschool programs and activities. But it’s concerning that, after adjusting for inflation, afterschool spending by families in the lowest income bracket has decreased since 2020, while spending by families in the highest income bracket has grown, exacerbating inequities. Afterschool programs give students a safe place to go after the school day ends, boost their academic achievement, help address the youth mental health and chronic absenteeism crises, provide alternatives to screen time, give working parents peace of mind that their children are safe and supervised, and more. Our country will be stronger and more successful when all children can take advantage of what afterschool programs offer – but, sadly, this study shows we’re nowhere near reaching that goal. We need greater support from federal, state, and local governments, businesses, and philanthropy. Every child deserves access to a quality afterschool program.” Oregon data shows that parents of 331,262 children want afterschool programs but 5 out of 6 children are not able to participate due to availability, access (location and transportation), and cost, the largest factor. “In Oregon, the demand for afterschool programs is incredibly high. Parents value the benefits afterschool programs provide for young people—keeping them safe, helping build life skills, and getting them excited about learning. They say that afterschool programs help them keep their jobs and provide peace of mind. Still, just a fraction of Oregon families who want afterschool programs have them…Overwhelmingly, Oregon parents are in favor of public funding for afterschool programs.” Recent surveys confirm this: 2025 89% 2020 90% 2014 83% 2009 79% Support for public funding is high across the political spectrum in Oregon Democrats 92% Independents 94% Republicans 81% However, currently, no public funding is available from the state specifically for afterschool care. Funds from the Student Success Act can be used for that purpose, but most school districts use that funding for teachers and counselors. Public funding is available for afterschool programs in some cities, e.g. Portland, Hillsboro. Summer care: The appropriation for summer school that was funded in the 2025 legislative session is probably not in danger of being cut because the appropriation was made into a special fund outside the general fund. Funding is still available for summer 2026 and 2027. These funds are designated to school districts for summer literacy and although there is a mandate to involve at least one community-based organization, the requirement does not include after school hours care. Criminal Justice By Marge Easley The Senate Judiciary hearing on November 17 provided an update on wrongful conviction legislation, SB 1584 (2022), and the need to pass additional legislation to ensure a more effective and timely compensation process for those who have been wrongly convicted. The 2025 Oregon Justice for Exonerees Act (SB 1007) failed to make it out of session. The Innocence Project and the Forensic Justice Project will also push for fixing gaps in current law that have allowed convictions based on flawed and outdated forensic science, including hair comparisons, bite mark analysis, and comparative bullet lead analysis. Education By Jean Pierce In the coming session, school funding will be a major concern. On November 19, Legislators heard a report from LPRO and LFO staff outlining deficiencies of the Quality Education Model used to determine equitable funding. This is an ongoing issue that needs to be addressed. In addition, education agencies were not immune from the request to identify potential spending cuts. Their proposals are outlined below. However. public school administrators are urging lawmakers to allocate money from the $1.2 billion education stability fund to meet the current budget emergency. K-12 Education The Oregon Department of Education (ODE) used the following guiding principles when they decided where to make cuts: Protect student-centered supports Maintain statutory compliance Preserve organizational stability Limit disruption to districts and classrooms Establish programs to hold harmless ODE is proposing partial reductions in General Funding to some programs, including Every Day Matters, which addresses barriers to attendance Career and technical Education grants and career pathways ·High School Success Further, ODE is proposing State School Fund cuts to 10 th Grade Assessment Educator Advancement Fund English Language Learners Health Schools Fund Local Option Equalization Menstrual Products Speech Pathologist Talented and Gifted Members of the Ways and Means subcommittee expressed concerns particularly about the potential loss of the Educator Advancement Fund (EAF). The EAF provides professional development, mentorship, and Grow Your Own programs for teachers. This would mean less support for teachers who are charged with implementing the recently-approved science of reading curriculum. The Grow Your Own program recruits teachers from local communities, particularly minorities. Higher Education Proposing cuts to higher education funding comes at a particularly challenging time for colleges and universities which are experiencing cuts to research and other programs from the federal government. When the Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) shared their proposals for 2.5% cuts, they noted that the cuts would result in hundreds of eliminated positions, including full-time faculty and administrators. They reported using these criteria for cuts: There would be minimal impact on support for the most vulnerable students. Other programs could continue to support the affected populations. Targeted programs were new or had received a large funding increase in the past four years. Merging or consolidating programs could increase administrative efficiency. The proposal includes cuts to The HECC agency Workforce development grants Career pathways funding for community colleges Childcare grant for student parents would no longer support new students Oregon Promise would no longer support new students The proposed cuts to the HECC budget would cause universities to increase tuition by close to 7% and community colleges to increase tuition by 10%, making higher education unaffordable for a number of students. Gun Safety By Marge Easley Supporters of Measure 114, including the League, will be pushing for the passage of a bill in the upcoming session to provide implementation details and technical fixes for Measure 114, the 2022 measure that requires a permit to purchase a firearm and bans high-capacity magazines. It has been under court review since that time. The Oregon Supreme Court hearing on its constitutionality occurred on November 6, and it most likely will take several months for the ruling to come down. Last session SB 243 set the date of March 15, 2026, for implementation of Measure 114 with the condition that the Oregon Supreme Court decides in its favor. The Christmas Tree bill also allocated over $14 million to the Oregon State Police to help cover implementation costs. Healthcare By Christa Danielson Legislative meetings held last week focused on how we are going to continue to provide our current level of services for Medicaid and SNAP in light of HR.1. Speaker of the House Julie Fahey reported cuts in the Medicaid and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) budgets of up to 15 billion in future years for Oregonians. In light of this, the legislators are looking at funding sources such as decoupling some taxes from the federal budget or using the reserve fund. There is also a task force convened by the governor to consider how to sustain Medicaid benefits. The system is already straining in light of new work requirements, eligibility checks and budgeting for a possible revenue shortfall from the state, i.e. the hospital tax. Enhanced premium tax credits are due to expire at the end of 2025. They were set up during Covid via the American Rescue Plan. Some families will have to pay double what they pay now for health insurance. Average premiums could increase by 12-25 %. Housing By Nancy Donovan and Debbie Aiona Interim committees are meeting to prepare for the upcoming legislative session. They are studying policy issues, learning from invited leaders, and considering recommendations for potential legislation. Recently, the Senate and House housing committees invited agency leaders to speak on a range of housing issues as reported below. Presentations to the Senate Committee on Housing and Development, November 17, 2025 Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) Executive Director Andrea Bell presented information on the impact of federal funding and policies on Oregon. The state received a little over $530 million from the federal government for housing production and services for people accessing housing and homeless programs. That amount represents about 15 percent of the state’s housing resources. Congress has not yet finalized the Housing and Urban Development budget. OHCS serves as a pass through for federal dollars to local jurisdictions and non-profit providers. Inclusionary Zoning Inclusionary Zoning (IZ) promotes mixed income housing developments by requiring developers to include affordable units in their housing projects. The policy was banned by the Legislature in 1999. They relegalized it in 2016 (SB 1533) and required developers to include a percentage of units affordable to households at 80 percent of Area Median Income (AMI). It does not apply to buildings with fewer than 20 units. LWVOR supported the 2016 legislation. Portland is the only city in Oregon that implemented IZ. It was fully funded for projects in the central city and underfunded for projects in surrounding neighborhoods. Underfunding led to developers creating projects with just under 20 units in order to avoid the IZ requirements. Portland recently revisited its policy and fully funded the IZ program throughout the city. It prioritized development of 60 percent AMI units in higher priced neighborhoods. In the first six months, 20 projects opted in to the program, fewer developers are proposing projects with fewer than 20 units. Regular check ins are essential. A Habitat for Humanity representative presented information on the potential for applying IZ to affordable homeownership in condominium projects. Presentations to the House Interim Committee on Housing and Homelessness met on November 18 Andrea Bell, Executive Director of Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS), began by saying her agency is tracking the evolving federal landscape on housing and homeless service programs. During the shutdown a majority of federal funds awarded to OHCS were accessible and obligated during the shutdown. When the furlough affected federal staff, some projects were on pause, such as contracts and project certifications. FY 2025 funding levels were sustained for the agency. Oregon is working, although homeless numbers continue to grow. The importance of a full continuum of services is essential to keep the system viable. New homelessness is largely economically driven, a problem that is decades in the making and will take time and effort to remedy. Jimmy Jones, Executive Director of the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency in Salem, presented information to both the House and Senate committees. He explained that his agency focuses on reducing poverty, including housing assistance, child care and youth programs, and offers support for those experiencing homelessness. He commented on the history of federal homeless housing programs, and the importance of retaining the Continuum of Care program. He also highlighted “observables” in his presentation: 1) What we are doing in Oregon is working, 2) homeless numbers continue to grow, 3) observable 2 is not connected to observable 1, 4) a new wave of homelessness is largely driven by economics, 5) criminalization will fail, 6) we need full continuum of services and they are all interconnected, 7) the problem is decades in the making and will take time to solve. He is concerned about the July 2025 Executive Order issued by the White House on homelessness and related topics. It seeks to encourage civil commitment of individuals with mental illness who pose risks to themselves or the public or are living on the streets and cannot care for themselves in appropriate facilities for periods of time. In the past, homeless individuals were expected to work their way through a stair step into permanent housing. More recently policies have prioritized Housing First and harm reduction that do not require working through specific steps to qualify for housing, but instead place clients into housing and then provide services and support. The Trump administration will fund the older failed approach to addressing homelessness. It will focus on criminalizing homelessness, reducing funding for permanent supportive housing, incentivizing treatment first and transitional housing. It will shift funds to faith-based providers, require cooperation with immigration enforcement, and disallow racial and transgender preference policies. States will need to re-compete for federal funding grants. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED : What is your passion related to Social Policy? You can help. Volunteers are needed. We particularly need help tracking legislation concerning Criminal justice Hate and bias crimes Juvenile justice Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Climate Emergency , Governance , and Natural Resources , and Revenue report sections.

/ Budget Chair Information / Budget Chair Information Fundraising Policies PMP - A History The Art of Building a Budget

Back to All Legislative Reports Governance Internships Legislative Report - Week of 1/15 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: Senate and House Rules Committees AI and Elections, EPAB (Electronic Portal Advisory Board) Election Methods Campaign Finance and Redistricting By Norman Turrill, Governance Coordinator, and Team Senate and House Rules Committees The Interim Senate Rules and Executive Appointments Committee met 1/10/24 and introduced three legislative concepts (LCs) for the Public Records Advisory Council (PRAC) to study public records requests fees charged ( LC 196 ); make youth sporting events grants available ( LC 195 ); and to make many changes in an election law clean-up bill ( LC 194 ). The Interim House Rules Committee met 1/11/24 and introduced many LCs: LC 22 proposes an amendment to the Oregon Constitution to require the Legislative Assembly to impose by law a state property tax to fund public safety and define taxable property. LC 46 sets the convening date and time of electors of the President and Vice President of the United States and sets procedures. LC 47 requires all notary public applicants to complete a course of study. LC 251 requires the Governor to fill a vacancy in the office of U.S. Senator by appointment within 30 days until a special election can fill the vacancy. LC 266 requires the Oregon Health Authority to study Oregon’s addiction crisis. (Placeholder relating to addiction.) LC 267 requires the Oregon Health Authority to study access to behavioral health treatment in this state. (Placeholder relating to behavioral health.) LC 268 requires the Secretary of State to study how best to improve Oregon’s campaign finance system. (Placeholder relating to campaign finance.) LC 269 directs the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission to study the deterrent effect of different sentences on the use of controlled substances in public places. (Placeholder relating to community safety.) LC 270 requires the Secretary of State to study how to improve Oregon’s voter access. (Placeholder relating to elections.) LC 271 requires the Oregon Government Ethics Commission to study Oregon’s government ethics laws. (Placeholder relating to government ethics.) LC 272 requires the Oregon Health Authority to study access to health care in this state. (Placeholder relating to health care.) LC 273 requires the Housing and Community Services Department to study housing (Placeholder relating to housing.) LC 274 requires the Oregon Government Ethics Commission to study public meetings. (Placeholder relating to public meetings.) LC 275 requires the Public Records Advisory Council to study public records. (Placeholder relating to public records.) LC 301 removes the requirement that the word “incumbent” appear on the ballot with the name of incumbent candidates for the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, Oregon Tax Court, and circuit court. AI and Elections, EPAB (Electronic Portal Advisory Board) By Rebecca Gladstone No developments yet on our Senate Commemorative Resolution (SCR) for Alice Bartelt from Sen Wagner. The Electronic Portal Advisory Board (EPAB) met in November, 2023, highlighting the Oregon Digital Equity Plan draft; see consolidated documents . Expect several Artificial Intelligence (AI) bills this session. In mid-November, Sen. Woods’ staff asked us to work on an elections AI bill (LC 132), paraphrasing highlights here: AI means digital technology used to create an image, audio or video recording of an individual’s appearance, speech or conduct that a reasonable person would believe depicts a real individual but that did not actually occur. The bill requires disclosing any form of AI use in campaign ads and communication. A filing officer believing an election law or rule violation has occurred shall proceed promptly as though they had received a complaint. Time periods in the bill range from 3 days to 5 years. Circuit courts are directed to prioritize these restraining orders, prohibitions, or injunctions, which may be issued without proof of injury or damage to any person. Civil penalty enforcement is not to exceed $10,000. Being effective on passage could impact Oregon 2024 campaigns. Notwithstanding ORS 260.005 (10)(c)(B)(i), a campaign communication may involve aggregate expenditures of any amount. States’ legislation underway: Thanks to Joint Committee Information Management and Technology Admin. Sean McSpaden, for renaming our HB 2049 group to the AI group, sending ongoing reading, some here: Governor’s Kotek’s Executive Order (EO-23-26) – to establish a State Government AI Advisory Council. News Release (November 29, 2023) Racing to Keep Up: Consumer Data Privacy and AI Advancements , National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) (November 28, 2023). Forecast ’24: Privacy and broadband access are ongoing concerns for 2024 legislative sessions, but breakthroughs in artificial intelligence are outpacing lawmakers’ ability to respond. NCSL Artificial Intelligence 2023 Legislation (Updated September 27, 2023). In 2023 legislative sessions, at least 25 states, Puerto Rico and DC introduced AI bills, and 15 states and Puerto Rico adopted resolutions or enacted legislation. NCSL Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Elections and Campaigns – November 7, 2023. AI Background: Sen. Woods notes that AI is not new, cites Alan Turing, “the Father of AI,” and the 1950 Turing Test, to test a machine’s ability to convincingly carry-on human conversation. From The Guardian, Dec 7, 2023, Eliza, a 1960s computer program, beat the viral AI chatbot ChatGPT at the Turing test, designed to differentiate humans from artificial intelligence, by 27% to 14%. But OpenAI’s GPT-4 chatbot tricked study subjects more than Eliza did, succeeding 41% of the time. AI’s vast AI scope See the Dec 4, 2023 New Yorker on the AI Revolution: Human beings “think linearly. You give instructions to someone on how to get from here to Starbucks, and you give them individual steps,” he said. “You don’t give them instructions on how to get to any Starbucks location from anywhere. It’s just hard to think that way, in parallel.” Election Methods By Barbara Klein On 1/11/24 the Joint Committee On Ballot Measure Titles and Explanatory Statements held a work session and public hearing on HB 2004 (a Ranked Choice Voting bill from 2023 that the LWVOR supports). Currently it is known as Legislative Concept 60 (LC 60). See LWVOR testimony . This same committee is preparing ballot titles for two other legislative referrals: ( LC 59 ) would set up a process for the Oregon House of Representatives to impeach statewide elected public officials and for the Senate to convict impeached officials. ( LC 58 ) would create a commission to determine the salaries of state level public officials. Campaign Finance and Redistricting LWVOR has endorsed circulating petitions. They can be downloaded, printed, signed and returned by mail from Honest Elections for IP 9, Campaign Finance Reform, and People Not Politicians for IP 14, Redistricting. Initiative petition signature filing is due July 5, 2024. Watch for legal status updates.

3 Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 1/16/23 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 Climate Emergency Priorities Other Climate Emergency Bills Clean Energy Oregon Economic Analysis Oregon Climate-Related Lawsuits State, Regional, National, and Global CE News Local League Climate Updates Volunteers Needed Climate Emergency Priorities By Claudia Keith The League has identified six priority CE policy and budget topics. Following are updates on those topics: 1. Resilient Buildings : Refer to the Legislative Joint Task Force on Resilient Efficient Buildings Dec 13 Report . It’s unclear when the bill(s) will be posted to OLIS, or which Leg policy committee(s) will be affected. As of this week the League is an active coalition member. (Some of these building topics were included in this 2017 Executive Order 17-20: Accelerating Efficiency In Oregon’s BUILT ENVIRONMENT TO REDUCE GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS AND ADDRESS CLIMATE CHANGE. This EO was posted a few days before Gov Brown attended COP 23 in Bonn, Germany). 2. Natural and Working Lands : (Establishes Natural and Working Lands (NWL) Fund, carbon sequestration opportunities…): Natural Climate Solutions SB530 . The legislation includes activity-based metrics and community impact metrics for net carbon sequestration and storage in natural and working lands and establishes carbon sequestration and storage goals. Assigned to: Natural Resources Senate Committee, find Committee Bills HERE and Related, see interim NR committee SB88 ). The League continues to be an active NWL coalition member. 3. Environmental Justice: A number of 2023 Leg bills are expected to address new and ongoing related topics. A recent update EPA: ‘ EPA Releases Updated Legal Guidance on Identifying , Addressing Cumulative Impacts to Advance Environmental Justice, Equity | US EPA, clearly defines at the federal level this new foundational area. (Related to HB 4077 (2022). 4. Oregon Climate Action Commission (currently Oregon Global Warming Commission): Roadmap , SB 522 , will change "Oregon Global Warming Commission" to "Oregon Climate Action Commission." and modify membership and duties of commission and state greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets/goals. This will direct state agencies to report to the commission on progress toward achieving greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals (see SB 928 2019). Referred to the Senate E&E committee. 5. Other Governor Climate / Carbon Policy Topics: See 20-04 Executive Order topics . This area includes other GHG emission mitigation/reductions and new clean renewable energy (DOE), OHA public health, and DOT Dept of Transportation policy and funding. 6. CE related total 2023-2025 biennium budget: The governor’s budget* is scheduled to be available in Feb. There is now expected > $70M in CE related state agency POPs and new Legislative funding. (* budget items will come from over 22 state agencies including 14 NR agencies, OHA, DAS, ODOT, ODOE, etc.) Other CE Bills By Claudia Keith The League may support or just follow these bills. (This is a preliminary list; many bills are not yet posted to OLIS.) Natural Working Lands: See Rep Pham’s urban forestry bill, HB 3016 , Rep Holvey’s severance tax bill, HB 3025 to replace the harvest tax, and ODF’s Regular Harvest tax bill, HB 2087 . SB 88 climate smart Ag increases net carbon sequestration and storage in natural and working lands. Requested: Senate Interim Committee on Natural Resources and Wildfire Recovery. See Keep Oregon Cool, Natural Working Lands. Greenhouse Gas Emission Mitigation : HB 2816 High Energy Use Facility - Required GHGE reduction, Chief Sponsors: Dembrow and Marsh. Fossil Fuel (FF) Divestment : HB 2601 Oregon FF Divestment … Requires State Treasurer to address the urgency and risk associated with FF energy investments. Chief Sponsors: Rep Pham K, Senator Golden, Rep Gamba. Green Infrastructure: HB 3016 community green infrastructure, Rep Pham K, Senator Dembrow, Rep Gamba. Public & Green Banking: SB501 Bank of the state of Oregon Sen Golden. HB2763 Create a State public bank Task Force, Rep Gamba, Sen Golden, Rep Walters Clean Energy By Kathy Moyd, Greg Martin Legislation for the 2023 Session A quick review of the almost hundred bills posted for H Climate, Energy, and Environment and Senate Energy Environment showed that most of the bills have some connection to climate change action both with respect to reductions in greenhouse gas emissions or adaptation to extreme climate events already occurring. Some of these will be under the Natural Resources Portfolio. Since greenhouse gasses are frequently associated with air toxins, some air quality bills may be considered under both portfolios. Some of these bills have been submitted in both committees and some of them are obvious placeholders for which amendments may be submitted later in the session. Of course, not all will actually be passed or even given a public hearing. In addition, those requesting funding will have more difficulty this year and may not get out of the Ways and Means Committee. The League will be working over the next few weeks to determine which of these bills we should actively follow, including giving testimony. Oregon Global Warming Commission The Oregon Global Warming Commission (OGWC) and the Oregon Department of Energy (ODOE) have been working for a year to develop the Roadmap to 2035 through the Transformational Integrated Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction (TIGHGER) project , aiming to identify decarbonization actions that can reduce GHG emissions while continuing to grow Oregon’s economy and enhance equity and quality of life. The commission devoted all or part of nine meetings to TIGHGER-related topics during 2022. At the OGWC meeting on January 13, draft recommendations seemed to be nearly in place. The League will consider providing comments if there is a public review. At the beginning of the meeting, Sen. Dembrow referred to two related bills: SB 522 , updating the GHG reduction goals, restructuring and renaming the OGWC and clarifying its role in climate action; and SB 530 , natural climate solutions (N&WL). He said both will involve expenditures and thus will go to W&M late in the session. House Committee on Energy, Climate and Environment Jan 18, 3pm Meeting, Claudia Keith Find Meeting Highlights HERE and link to video HERE Meeting Agenda: Invited Speakers Only House Bill 2021 (2021) Implementation:Christy Splitt, Government Relations Coordinator, Oregon Department of EnergyMegan Decker, Chair, Public Utility CommissionThomas Burns, Vice President Resource Planning and Acquisitions, Pacific Power Kristen Sheeran, Director of Resource Planning and Sustainability, Portland General Electric (Kristen was Gov Browns Climate/Carbon policy advisor for 4+ years)Jennifer Hill-Hart, Oregon Citizens’ Utility Board Bob Jenks, Oregon Citizens’ Utility Board Energy Markets Overview: Adam Schultz, Lead, Electricity & Markets Policy Group, Oregon Department of Energy Scott Bolton, Senior Vice President Transmission and Market Development, Pacific PowerNicole Hughes, Executive Director, Renewable NW Oregon Economic Analysis By Claudia Keith The next Oregon Economic and Revenue Forecast is scheduled for mid-Feb. It is unclear how the very volatile security market and banking issues / risk will develop. The last State of Oregon quarterly forecast assumed a likely mild recession in 2023. Climate Emergency Financial Risk: The Fed wants climate risk analysis from 6 largest U.S. banks by July 31 2023 | Reuters The Oregon Office of Economic Analysis has never conformed to what is now recommended in the SEC Climate Risk disclosure rule. SEC Plans to Finalize Two Dozen Rules in 2023 | Thomson Reuters. See supportive LWVOR-initiated LWVUS Testimony , June 2022. Related: ‘ESG Watch: Why this year could be a watershed moment for investors on nature-related risk | Reuters. The Status of Two Pending Rules That Would Require Disclosure of Climate Risks| Environmental Leader. Oregon Treasurer Tobias Read has changed his Fossil Fuel risk perspective. Oregon investments will be affected by ESG reporting. 5 banking trends to watch in 2023 | Banking Dive, “Harsher penalties, a fiercer fight over ESG philosophy and a more urgent push to regulate crypto appear poised to roil the finance sector this year.” Oregon Climate Related Lawsuits By Claudia Keith Be reminded there are numerous lawsuits challenging Oregon’s DEQ CPP regulations. Here is one example of how to track them. Basically, there are a number of active state and federal lawsuits , (Jan 12, 2023 update) some which could assist in meeting Oregon's Net Zero GHG Emissions before 2050 targets and other lawsuits which challenge current Oregon DEQ CPP policy which would limit the use of fossil fuels, including diesel, natural gas, and propane over time. A national perspective: ‘Environmental cases to watch in 2023 | Reuters State, Regional, National, and Global CE News By Claudia Keith New report highlights opportunities to mitigate and adapt to climate change in Oregon – OPB. Central Oregon Community College: Aiming for a Carbon-Neutral Future | The Source Weekly - Bend, Oregon. Clean energy bill could spell trouble for Oregon datacenters . The Register. Environment Oregon's 2023 Legislative Agenda. 2023 Outlook: US power sector trends to watch | Utility Dive. What Does the War in Ukraine Mean for the Climate ? - The New York Times. Climate Goals Are Still Doable With More Renewables And Secure Financing| Forbes. Energy & Environment — Biden energy chief pushes back on GOP bill | The Hill. Why Europe Is Fuming Over America’s Green Subsidies - The Washington Post. Biden's climate agenda has a problem: Not enough workers | Reuters. European Executives Eye US Green Plan With Envy in Davos – Bloomberg. A Chart: China Dominates the Rare Earth Market | Statista. BlackRock’s Larry Fink Says ESG Narrative Has Become Ugly , Personal – Bloomberg. Federal Reserve Board – PR 1/17/2023: provides additional details on how its pilot climate scenario analysis exercise will be conducted and the information on risk management practices that will be gathered over the course of the exercise.... “ Climate scenario analysis is distinct and separate from bank stress tests . The Board's stress tests are designed to assess whether large banks have enough capital to continue lending to households and businesses during a severe recession. The pilot climate scenario analysis exercise, on the other hand, is exploratory in nature and does not have capital consequences….”. SEC aims to set climate risk , cybersecurity rules before May | CFO Dive. The EU’s pioneering carbon border tax | Financial Times. Why (Some) Central Banks Are Acting on Climate Change - The Washington Post. How Climate Catastrophe Could Be Averted If World Bank Helps Wall St – Bloomberg. Taiwan central bank to incorporate climate change risks into forecasting | Reuters. Global oil demand set to reach record high as China reopens, IEA says | Financial Times. Key sustainability trends that will drive decision-making in 2023 | S&P Global The Nature Conservancy: 10 Places to Watch in 2023 : PERSPECTIVES The world just signed a new deal for nature—now it's time to put it into action. Local League Climate Updates By Claudia Keith Request to Local Leagues; please let us know your climate, resilience, or sustainability advocacy actions. Volunteers Needed By Claudia Keith Please consider joining the CE portfolio team; we lack volunteers in these critical policy areas: Natural and Working lands, specifically Agriculture/ODA ODOT Transportation & DLCD/LCD Climate Friendly and Equitable Communities Efficient Resilient Buildings Public Health Climate Adaptation 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 Climate and Environmental Justice. We all collaborate with Natural Resource Action members on many Climate Change mitigation and adaptation policy topics. Volunteers are needed: The 2023 legislative session began Jan 17. If any area of Climate Emergency interests you, please contact Claudia Keith , CE Coordinator. Orientation to Legislative and State Agency advocacy processes is available.