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Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 4/21 Climate Emergency Team Coordinator: Claudia Keith Efficient and Resilient Buildings: Bill Glassmire Environmental Justice: Nancy Rosenberger Environmental Rights Amendment: Claudia Keith Natural Climate Solution - Forestry: Josie Koehne Community Resilince & Emergency Management: Rebecca Gladstone Transportation: Claudia Keith Joint Ways and Means - Budgets, Lawsuits, Green/Public Banking, Divestment/ESG: Claudia Keith Find additional Climate Change Advocacy volunteers in Natural Resources Please see Climate Emergency Overview here. Jump to a topic: Environmental Justice Bills Climate Priority Advocacy Groups Climate Priorities with League Testimony , League Endorsement Critical Energy Infrastructure (CEI) Emergency Management Package Energy Affordability and Utility Accountability Package Environmental Rights Constitutional Amendment Climate Treasury Investment Bills Natural and Working Lands Other Priorities Other Climate Bills: New Priority Bills That Died In Policy Committee Transportation Climate Emergency JWM Budget Concerns Highlights of House and Senate Chamber Votes Climate Lawsuits/Our Children’s Trust The Federal admin (executive branch of government) response to Judicial (judiciary branch of government) court orders is at best case worrisome/concerning/questionable. News: ‘Judge orders federal agencies to release billions of dollars from two Biden-era initiatives’– OPB 4/14/25. (These 2+ initiatives address a number of energy/climate/carbon/ emergency management and community resiliency portfolios.) Like with many funding and policy issues affecting many state agencies, the League is very concerned; it’s unclear at this point if the Trump administration will respectively/lawfully respond to any Court orders. The normal situation would have DOJ step in, but with the current situation it’s unclear which federal law enforcement agency will enforce the court orders. Related, the Leagues Judiciary Study and new national position is scheduled to be approved prior to the 2025 June LWV Council meeting. You can track effects of federal cuts in Oregon through the Impact Project. See their interactive map . Many of the cuts listed affect climate and environmental concerns. Environmental Justice Bills HB2548 : establishes an agriculture workforce labor standards board, League Testimony . Work Session was held 4/9 passed 4/3, with no amendments, no recommendation and referred to House Rules. 
 Climate Priority Advocacy Groups For the first time, this year most of our priorities are included in the bipartisan 2025 Legislative Environmental Caucus Priorities , Citizens Utility Board (CUB) Priorities and/or Oregon Conservation Network (OCN) priorities . OCN is the only formal environmental lobby coalition group in the capitol. Consequently, for some of these bills (especially those in a package) the League may just join coalition sign-on letters rather than providing individual testimony. Another statewide organization is also advocating for many Climate / Energy Legislative bills. SEE Consolidated Oregon Indivisible Network (COIN) resource page. News: The Ashland Chronicle: Oregon Indivisible Network Update 4/15/25 . Climate Priorities with League Testimony with League Endorsement and Still Alive HB 3170 : Community Resilience Hubs and networks : Work Session 3/4, passed to JWM, DHS, Sponsors, Rep. Marsh, Sen Pham and Rep Tan. League testimony 
 
 
 
 Critical Energy Infrastructure (CEI) Emergency Management Package Update By Nikki Mandell Four CEI bills are part of a package which was the subject of public hearings February 27 and March 6 in the House Energy Management, General Government, and Veterans Committee: OPB: ‘ Portland councilors discuss safety of storing oil in an industrial hub sitting on a quake zone’, 3/18/25. S ee CEI Hub Seismic Risk Analysis ( The study, Impacts of Fuel Releases from the CEI Hub, is intended to characterize and quantify the anticipated damages from the CEI Hub in the event of the Cascadia Subduction Zone (CSZ) Earthquake.) CEI energy storage transition plan 
, The Bigger Picture: ASCE's ( American Society of Civil Engineers , founded in 1852 ) , Oregon C- grade Infrastructure Report Card . Three of the four CEI Hub-related bills introduced in January are still alive (listed below). They passed through the House Committee on Emergency Management on Tues., April 8. All three have costs associated with them, so they’ve been referred to the Joint Committee on Ways and Means (aka Budget Committee), where they’ll be further assigned to a Ways & Means subcommittee. Then, the very uncertain budget situation, in combination legislators’ different priorities and horse-trading will take over. The outcome of Ways & Means’ work may not be known until the last few days of the legislative session (targeted to end June 18, but constitutionally will end no later than June 29) HB 2152 : calls on OR Dept. of Energy to develop a plan for geographically diverse storage of fuels for disaster response. HB 2949 : calls for a risk bond requirement for all bulk fuel storage facilities that are currently regulated by DEQs Fuel Tank Seismic Stability program (SB 1567, 2022) HB 3450 : calls on OR Dept. of Energy to develop a transition plan for the CEI Hub to ensure the state’s “energy resiliency” A bit more info about what is in the versions of these bills that have now passed on to the Ways & Means Committee: HB 2152 passed through Rep. Tran’s committee with the -1 amendment. The amendment expanded the list of required stakeholders to be consulted to include federally recognized tribes and labor (passed with all 4 Dems voting Aye, and all 3 Repubs voting nay) HB 2949 passed through Rep. Tran’s committee as the -5 amendment. This bill is significantly different from what was introduced in January. The initial bill called for a study of the viability of a risk bond requirement. At the strong urging of Multnomah County, with support from community advocates, and weeks of back and forth involving the county, community advocates, and industry lobbyists, the bill now calls on DEQ to establish a risk bond regulation. It’s not a perfect bill, but it avoids the years-long delay of a study bill, has strong provisions for determining the level of financial responsibility, allows DEQ to fine, suspend or close down operations for non-compliance, and gives local govt.s and community members a combined 2/3 representation on the rules-making advisory committee. On the not-perfect side, the bill sets a cap on the level of risk bonding that can be required during the first three years, makes it possible for the rules to allow (or disallow) self-insurance; and preempts local govt.s from passing a separate risk bond requirement (passed through the committee unanimously!) HB 3450 passed through Rep. Tran’s committee with the -1 amendment. There is a more comprehensive -2 amendment posted in OLIS that incorporates the public testimony of community supporters. Rep. Tran could not muster enough support on the committee to bring this -2 amendment forward. In order to keep the concept alive, she asked for a vote on the -1 amendment. (passed through the committee with all 4 Dems voting Aye- one expressing deep reservations; and all 3 Repubs voting nay). Rep. Tran has committed to doing what she can to amend the CEI Hub Transition Plan bill (HB 3450) to be closer to the more comprehensive -2 amendment version. I'll be meeting with her next week to explore the options. The big lift going forward will be to advocate with members of the Ways & Means sub- and full committee, and with Democratic caucus leadership for CEI Hub legislation. Energy Affordability and Utility Accountability Package HB 3081A ( League testimony ) work session held 4/8, adopted -1 amendment, in JWM, creates an active navigator to help access energy efficiency incentives all in one place 
 
 
,‘on stop shopping’. SB 88 ( League testimony ) work session was 3/24, limits the ability of utility companies to charge ratepayers for lobbying, litigation costs, fines, marketing, industry fees, and political spending. 
 Moved to Sen Rules on 3/28. 
 In addition to our testimony, LWVOR joined the Oregon Conservation Network, coordinated through the Oregon League of Conservation Voters, in sign-on letters supporting both HB 3081 and SB 88. PH 3/4 3/4 Environmental Rights Constitutional Amendment At this point in the session, it is unclear if SJR 28 will move out of Sen Rules. SJR 28 proposed -1 amendment , Environmental Rights Constitutional amendment (ERA) S enate Joint Resolution - with referral to the 2026 ballot, public hearing was 3/26 . The League provided support with comments testimony . The bill is in Senate Rules , so the Legislative first chamber deadlines are not applicable. A Work Session is not yet scheduled. The -1 a mendment is a partial rewrite and may address the League’s concerns. LWVUS has provided guidance since over 26 states have - or are in the process of voting on green / environmental rights constitutional topics or initiatives. These usually take the form of a legislative referral to the people. The New Mexico green amendment campaign focuses on racial justice. Climate Treasury Investment Bills SB 681 : Dead: Treasury: Fossil Fuel investment moratorium, Senate Finance and Revenue, PH 3/19. testimony. Sen Golden. 
 
 
 HB 2200 -1 , work session was 4/8, bill was requested by previous Treasury Sec Tobias and supported by Treasurer Steiner, related to ESG investing , identified as the compromise bill. League – NO Comment, could move to the floor, no JWM required. 
 (still in H EMGGV, awaiting transfer to desk) HB 2966 A: Establishes the State Public Financing / public bank Task Force , Work Session 3/6/2025 passed to Joint Ways and Means (JWM), League Testimony , Rep Gamba, Senator,Golden, Frederick, Rep Andersen, Evans 
. Historically, since 2009 Public banking policy topic has been included in many Leg sessions, (go here and then use Control F to search for ‘bank’. ) 22 bills have died in committee over the past 16 years. Natural and Working Lands HB 5039 financial administration of the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board; JWM NR SC, League testimony 
 
 
 
 
 HB 3103A – work session 3/31. Moved to JWM, Overweight Timber Harvest , , League Testimony , new adopted -5 amendment . 
 
 Other Priorities HB 2566A : Stand-alone Energy resilience Projects , Work Session was 3/20, moved to JWM, Rep Gamba was the only nay. At the request of Governor Tina Kotek (H CEE), DOE presentation 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 HB 3365 A: 4/17 passed House 32/23, work session was 4/9, moved to floor with adopted amendment -4 . climate change instruction /curriculum in public schools, House Cm Educ, PH was 3/12, League Testimony , NO Fiscal noted , Chief Sponsors: Rep Fragala, Rep McDonald , Rep Andersen, Gamba, Lively, Neron, Senator Patterson, Pham, Taylor. 
 
 
 
 SB 688 A: -5 , Public Utility Commission performance-based regulation of electric utilities, PH 3/12,& 3/19, work session was 3/24, $500K fiscal, moved to JWM , League testimony , Sen. Golden, Sen. Pham, 
 
 
 
 
 SB 827A : Solar and Storage Rebate , SEE Work session 2/17, Gov. Kotek & DOE, Senate voted 21-7, moves to House 3/4 

 first reading. 
 referred to H CEE 3/10 
 
, PH 4/22 
 HB 3546A , -3 the POWER Act , work session was 4/8, bipartisan vote, moved , House vote 4/21. The bill requires the Public Utility Commission (PUC) to create a new rate class for the largest energy users in the state. (data centers and other high-volume users). These regulations would only apply to customers in the for-profit utility's service areas of PGE, Pacific Power, and Idaho Power. NO Fiscal, on its way to the floor. The League has approved being listed on a coalition sign on advocacy letter . 
 
 
 
 
 Oregon lawmakers introduce legislation to rein in utility bills | KPTV , Citizens Utility Board CUB presentation here . 
 
 
 
 
 SB 1143A : -3 , moved to JWM, with bipartisan vote, PH was 3/19, Work session was 4/7 SEE, PUC established a pilot program that allows each natural gas Co to develop a utility-scale thermal energy network (TEN) pilot project to provide heating and cooling services to customers. Senator Lieber, Sollman, Representative Levy B, Senator Smith DB, Representative Andersen, Marsh. Example: Introduction to the MIT Thermal Energy Networks (MITTEN) Plan for Rapid and Cost-Effective Campus Decarbonization. 
 
 Other Climate Bills: New HB 3609 work session 4/8, moved to JWM. The measure requires electric companies to develop and file with the Oregon Public Utility Commission a distributed power plant program for the procurement of grid services from customers of the electric company who enroll in the program. H CEE, PH 3/11 
 HB 3653 work session 4/8 passed unanimous, House vote 51 - 9. Allows authorized state agencies to enter into energy performance contracts without requiring a competitive procurement if the authorized state agency follows rules that the Attorney General adopts, negotiates a performance guarantee, and enters into the contract with a qualified energy service company that the ODOE prequalifies and approves. 
. Priority Bills that died in policy committee Some of these related to funding may appear in the end of session reconciliation (“Christmas tree”) bill. HB 3477 : Update to Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Goals. League testimony . House Climate, Energy, and Environment (CEE), Sponsored by Rep GAMBA, Sen Frederick, Golden, Patterson, Pham K, Taylor 
 
 
 
 
 SB 54 : Work Session was cancelled. The bill required landlords provide cooling for residential units . The League endorsed and added our name to a OJTA Oregon Justice Transition Alliance, sign-on letter . 
 Energy Trust of Oregon neutral testimony includes a presentation slide deck posted to OLIS on March 19, 2025. “ Energy Trust of Oregon does not support or oppose SB 54, and this is in accordance with Energy Trust’s contract with the Oregon Public Utility Commission which prohibits Energy Trust from lobbying. We are a neutral party per agreement with PUC.” 
 SB 1187 new Climate cost recovery Liability interagency bill , PH 4/7, Sen. Golden, Senate Energy and Environment 
 
(Replaces SB 679 and SB 682 : 
 
 
 SB 680 : Climate Science/Greenwashing , Sen. Golden and Manning, moved to Sen Judiciary , no recommendation, S NRWF PH was 2/26, sponsors: Campos, Frederick, Gorsek, Patterson, Prozanski, Taylor 
 
 
 
 
 
 Transportation This ODOT video gives a good short overview of the history and current status /challenges with Transportation funding and management strategic issues. Oregon Democrats unveil $1.9 billion transportation funding plan The plan includes raising the state gas tax to 60 cents per gallon, higher DMV fees, higher bike taxes and more. | *Oregon Capital Chronicle (OCC). ODOT answers to budget presentation questions an 18-page document dated March 13. ODOT budget presentation package detail materials can be found Here. Oregon transit agencies warn lawmakers of service cuts without a funding hike – OPB 3/28/25. The League is concerned with federal guidelines: “McLain and Gorsek said they’re confident in Oregon’s ability to continue to receive federal transportation grants, despite directives from U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy that federal funding should go toward states with high marriage and birth rates, no vaccine or mask mandates and that are committed to working with the federal government to enforce Trump’s immigration policy — all areas that don’t apply to Oregon.” See OCC article . KGW NEWS: What it could cost you to rescue Oregon's transportation funding | The Story | April 4, 2025 Climate Emergency JWM Budget Concerns In order to stay on track, the Legislature must prioritize investments for vital environmental justice, climate and community protection programs (CPP). Without additional appropriations this session, the following existing successful climate, CPP and environmental justice programs may run out of funding: Community Renewable Energy Grant Program (ODOE) 
 
 
 
 Rental Home Heat Pump Program (ODOE) 
 
 
 
 Community Heat Pump Program (ODOE) 
 
 
 
 Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program/Charge Ahead (DEQ) 
 
 
 
 Medium and Heavy-Duty Vehicles Rebates + Infrastructure Grants (DEQ) 
 
 
 
 Community Resilience Hubs and Networks (ODHS) 
 
 
 
 Climate Change Worker Relief Fund (DAS) 
 
 
 
 Oregon Solar + Storage Rebate Program (ODOE) 
 
 
 
 Natural & Working Lands Fund (OWEB) 
 
 See Natural Resources Legislative Reports for budget league testimonies including climate topics in over 12 agencies. Highlights of House and Senate Chamber Votes By a vote of 41-14, the House passed HB 3874 (Helm), which would increase the threshold for siting and approval of a wind energy facility at the local level from 50 MW to 100 MW of average electric generating capacity, before the facility must obtain a site certificate from EFSC. Either the county or the developer could elect to defer regulatory authority to EFSC. Wind turbines have a relatively small footprint, and technological improvements have more than tripled the generating capacity of a single wind tower. Farmers and other landowners have found that wind facilities can provide additional income while maintaining the overall productivity of their lands. Climate Lawsuits/Our Children’s Trust Here is one example of how to track ODEQ Climate Protection Program cases. Basically, there are a number of active federal lawsuits , Climate Litigation Updates (April 10, 2025) Another source: Columbia University Law - Sabin Climate DB lists 85 lawsuits , (active and dismissed) mentioning Oregon. Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Governance , Revenue , Natural Resources , and Social Policy report sections.

Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - September Interim Climate Emergency Team Coordinator: Claudia Keith Efficient and Resilient Buildings: Bill Glassmire Environmental Justice: Nancy Rosenberger Environmental Rights Amendment: Claudia Keith Natural Climate Solution - Forestry: Josie Koehne Community Resilince & Emergency Management: Rebecca Gladstone Transportation: Claudia Keith Joint Ways and Means - Budgets, Lawsuits, Green/Public Banking, Divestment/ESG: Claudia Keith Find additional Climate Change Advocacy volunteers in Natural Resources Jump to a topic: Action Alerts Oregon Global Warming Commission (OGWC) Climate County, State, Federal, and Global Lawsuits Climate Lawsuit News Our Children’s Trust Volunteers Needed By Claudia Keith, Climate Emergency Coordinator and team Please consider joining the CE team; we have several critical openings. Contact us through our “Get In Touch” website form for further information about volunteer opportunities. We expect transportation to be a major policy topic during the 2025 long legislative session. Energy Policy: Arlene Sherrett and Greg Martin Environmental Justice: Nancy Rosenberger Natural and Working Lands (NWL) Forestry: Josie Koehne Efficient & Resilient Buildings: Arlene Sherrett Transportation: Vacant NWL Agriculture: Vacant Public Health: Vacant Fossil Fuel (FF) Infrastructure: Vacant Our Children’s Trust and other Climate Lawsuits: Claudia Keith Climate Change Budget/Funding, OEA/Risk disclosure, ESG/FF divestment Treasury: Claudia Keith Action Alerts LWVOR ALERT to Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) Climate Protection Program Rulemaking staff and the Environmental Quality Commission . Their Deadline is Oct 13, 2023. The League continues to advocate for strong ODEQ Climate Protection Program (CPP) rules. We have been participating in the CPP rulemaking since its inception in 2021. We cite our own LWVOR public comments from the Oct 5, 2023, CPP rulemaking. The League of Women Voters of Oregon (LWVOR) strongly supports the CPP’s primary goals as identified by ODEQ from the beginning of its original rulemaking: Emissions: Achieve significant greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions Equity: Promote benefits and alleviate burdens for environmental justice communities and impacted communities Costs: Contain costs for businesses and consumers LWVOR & LWV ALERT : Urge Congress to Address the Climate Crisis & Protect Our Youth ! “Do not let future generations inherit the climate crisis. Urge your Members of Congress to cosponsor the Children’s Fundamental Rights and Recovery Resolution to address climate change and protect our youth’s rights and future!”. Learn more by reading: Markey Joins Merkley, Colleagues in Introducing Resolution for Climate Recovery Planning to Stand Up for Children’s Fundamental Right to a Healthy, Livable Planet ’ Oregon Global Warming Commission (OGWC) August 2023 Meeting Notes By Greg Martin Introduction The Oregon Global Warming Commission, created by the 2007 Oregon Legislature through House Bill 3543, is charged with tracking trends in greenhouse gas emissions and recommending ways to coordinate state and local efforts to reduce emissions in Oregon. Opening remarks and commissioner updates. Chair Macdonald introduced new commissioner Rep. Bobby Levy. Megan Decker, OPUC (Oregon Public Utility Commission). HB 2021 requires Portland General Electric (PGE) and Pacific Power (PP) to plan to achieve aggressive GHG (greenhouse gas) reductions by 2050 as part of the CPP, Climate Protection Program. The CPP sets a declining cap on GHG emissions from fossil fuels with the goal to dramatically reduce these emissions over the next 30 years. OPUC oversight can guide the utilities toward that goal but regulatory enforcement has its limitations. OPUC requires comprehensive forward planning every two years and is now in the middle of reviewing the utilities’ first plans addressing HB 2021. The next two-year planning phase will begin in 2024 and public engagement is important. The utility websites detail opportunities for engagement. Oregon Renewable Energy Siting Assessment (ORESA) ODOE Facility Siting Division staff presented an overview of the ORESA project . ORESA was funded by a $1.1 million U.S. DOD grant. A key goal is compatibility of renewable energy siting with military facilities. The online mapping/reporting tool, Oregon Explorer , provides layers of comprehensive GIS data for energy development and other purposes, including data on “community [EJ] considerations.” The ORESA project report , a key deliverable for the grant, found that Oregon has enough renewable energy potential to meet its energy and climate goals, though tradeoffs will be needed and challenges related to transmission infrastructure will have to be met. ODOE’s 2022 Biennial Energy Report: Charting a Course for Oregon’s Energy Future ODOE’s Amy Schlusser presented a policy brief overview. Oregon’s electricity demand is projected to increase by 50 to 100% by 2050. We will need to replace existing fossil resources with tens of gigawatts of new renewable resources – a substantial effort under any scenario – while increasing energy efficiency to offset demand growth as much as possible. High costs and land use impacts will be significant challenges. We need to identify optimal pathways to achieve the needed buildout, including determining the future role of natural gas (NG). The demand for NG is projected to drop dramatically, mainly in building and industrial sectors, but some reserve capacity will be needed to ensure grid reliability. The policy brief recommended the state undertake a robust stakeholder process to develop a comprehensive state energy strategy. HB 3630 enacted in 2023 directs ODOE to take on this task and ODOE is in the early stages of planning and contracting. Key questions include costs vs. benefits, how much clean energy we need and how fast can we develop it, how we will protect vulnerable communities, and balance farm and forest land protection against the need for new transmission, etc. Legislative Update from ODOE Christy Splitt presented an overview of ODOE’s 2023 Legislative Report , an excellent summary of background and key provisions of climate-related bills enacted this session (including budget bills), as well as some bills not passed. Helpfully, it breaks out the many disparate topics of the two major Climate Package bills with reference to the bills of origin. The GOP walkout and the large number of new members helped shape the session outcomes, but the main factor that made a difference in climate legislation was the higher-than-expected state budget – e.g., making additional dollars available for energy incentive programs. Major themes:the Resilient Efficient Buildings Task Force Pre-session work paid off, as the highest-profile measures passed as part of the Climate Package. The Building Performance Standard program in HB 3409 was the largest of many tasks added to ODOE’s plate. Resilient communities (resilience hubs and plans, grid resilience, more incentive dollars) were another important focus of response to the 2020 wildfires and 2021 heat dome. Sen. Dembrow called it a “surprisingly positive” session in that we moved forward on issues we’ve been talking about for some time. He plans to bring back the GHG reduction targets (deleted from the Climate Package) in the next session with the goal of setting the targets in statute. Draft OGWC Work Plan presentation and discussion The commission’s draft work plan through 2024 was available for public and agency comment through Friday, September 1. Commission discussion focused on how to rationalize the plan for performing all of the new tasks assigned to ODOE. The next meeting was set for late Sept. or early Oct., topics including the Institute for Natural Resources report on Natural and Working Lands work undertaken during the past year. ----- OGWC Oct 9 Meeting Agenda and Meeting Materials OEA & Security Exchange Commission (SEC): The League Responds to SEC Proposal to Require Climate Risk Disclosure | League of Women Voters.(The June 2022 LWVUS testimony was proposed by LWVOR Action Committee). Related, The League is monitoring the OEA Oregon quarterly economic / revenue forecasts to the Legislature. These reports continue to ignore climate risk disclosure. Related NEWS: Oct 2023, Recent ESG developments point to progress despite polarized US political climate - Thomson Reuters Institute. Oct 2023, What CPAs Need to Know About the SEC Climate-Related Risk Proposal - The CPA Journal. Fossil Fuel Infrastructure Expansion – “Notably absent from the agenda Thursday morning was the proposed GTN Xpress project, which would increase the flow of natural gas through an existing pipeline system in parts of Idaho, Washington state and Oregon.“ “ Yesterday, Oregon Democratic Sens. Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden urged FERC to deny the project , arguing that it was incompatible with Oregon and Washington’s climate goals. EE Wire : “Oregon senators: Gas pipeline 'not in the public interest'. Note, In 2015 LWV Portland and LWVOR provided public testimonies opposing any major Oregon Fossil Fuel infrastructure expansion. Portland Oil Storage: Newly obtained records show Portland officials’ private interactions with Zenith Energy - Zenith Energy’s fossil fuel storage and transport facility faces criticism for potential environmental dangers, particularly in the event of an earthquake.| Street Roots. State Treasury: Counter to ESG / Climate Risk analysis recommendations the July 2023, Treasury has increased the Fossil Fuel investment portfolio. Multnomah County chose to sue Big Oil and McKinsey for climate damage … and the Oregon Treasury chose to invest in Big Oil and hire McKinsey . The OIC (Oregon Investment Council ) Sept 2023 meeting agenda and report . Oregon Attorney General DOJ Climate work: OFFICE OF THE AG, Spotlight: Warming Climate (list of a number of DOJ actions related to Climate issues) Climate County, State, Federal and Global Lawsuits Numerous lawsuits are challenging Oregon’s DEQ CPP regulations. Gas, oil companies argue against Oregon’s emission deadlines during Court of Appeals hearing -- Several dozen people gathered afterwards to support those rules, which require a 50% cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035. -– Oregon Capital Chronicle. Here is one example of how to track them. Basically, there are several active state federal lawsuits , (Sept 2023 update) some of which could assist in meeting Oregon's Net Zero GHG Emissions before 2050 targets and other lawsuits, that 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 67 lawsuits , mentioning OREGON. Youth vs Europe: 'Unprecedented' climate trial unfolds at rights court | Reuters. Climate Change in Court: New Trends and Legal Grounds - Center on Global Energy Policy at Columbia University SIPA | CGEP. (GUEST Michael B. Gerrard, Andrew Sabin Professor of Professional Practice, Director, Center for Climate Change Law, Columbia Law School) Climate Lawsuit News Montana appeals climate change ruling for youth plaintiffs - Los Angeles Times. Hawaii youth-led climate lawsuit advances in the background of Maui wildfires - As residents of Hawaii work to help their neighbors on Maui recover from the worst fire in the state’s history, young people are demanding more accountability from local leaders. - A group of youth, including many indigenous to Hawaii, are suing the state’s Department of Transportation over climate change. | Wbur : Here & Now Our Children’s Trust October 4, 2023 Human Rights Organizations, Children’s Rights Advocates, Legal Scholars File Amicus Briefs in Support of Utah Youth Climate Case September 20, 2023 Attorneys for Youth Plaintiffs in Natalie R. v. State of Utah Make Case for Constitutional Climate Case to Be Heard in Court September 19, 2023 Announcing “Overturning 1.5°C: Calling for the Science Turn in Rights-Based Climate Litigation” I-5 Portland/Vancouver Bridge: I-5 Bridge Bipartisan group of Washington lawmakers tours I-5 Bridge - Program administrator: It’s important for people to see project urgency, Sept 2023, The Columbian. Recommended Newsletters: Senator Dembrow Senator Golden Rep Pam Marsh Volunteers Needed 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 critical policy science/technology, finance, and law areas. We collaborate with Natural Resource Action members on many Climate Change mitigation and adaptation policy topics. Volunteers are needed: CE Coordinator. Orientation to Legislative and State Agency advocacy processes is available.

Back to All Legislative Reports Natural Resources Legislative Report - Week of 2/27 Natural Resources Team Coordinator: Peggy Lynch Agriculture/Goal 3 Land Use: Sandra U. Bishop 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: Lucie La Bonte Water: Peggy Lynch Wildfire: Carolyn Mayers Ways and Means Natural Resource Budgets/Revenue: Peggy Lynch Budgets/Revenue Climate Coastal Issues Land Use/Housing Recycling Water The League is watching major housing bills as they move forward. We will be interested in the rebalance of the 2021-23 budget this week as well. Will there be funding for the Governor’s housing emergency and for semiconductor manufacturing? The next important session date is March 17 when policy bills will need to be scheduled for a Work Session or they are dead for the session. Budgets/Revenue The Oregon Dept. of Energy (ODOE) budget ( HB 5016 ) was heard on Feb. 21-22. Here is the agency presentation . Public testimony was allowed on Mar. 2 due to snow closure on Feb. 23rd. The Oregon Marine Board budget ( SB 5521 ) agency presentation and public hearing was on Feb. 27. The League provided testimony in support. The Oregon Dept. of Forestry (ODF) budget ( HB 5020 ) was heard Feb. 28 & Mar. 1 & 2, with public testimony on March 2. Here is the ODF agency presentation . See the POPs on Page 72. The League will provide testimony requesting that the climate change budget requests that were not included in the Governor’s budget be added back to this budget. The Land Use Board of Appeals agency presentation and public testimony is Mar. 6. The Dept. of State Lands budget ( HB 5037 ) is Mar. 7-9 with public testimony on 9. DSL one-pager . The Columbia Gorge Commission budget will be heard March 13—both agency presentation and public testimony. The Oregon Dept. of Agriculture (ODA) budget ( HB 5002 and HB 5003 ) is tentatively scheduled for March 14-16. Oregon Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) budget ( SB 5509 ) week of March 20. Dept. of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) ( HB 5018 and HB 5019 ) week of March 27. Here’s the DEQ one-pager . Tentative date for the Oregon Water Resources Dept. (OWRD) budget ( HB 5043 ) is early April. Here is their one-pager . Have you heard of “the kicker”? Here’s an article for you. Kicker amounts won’t be finalized until the 2021-23 budget is closed in Sept. SB 5543 , Bond Authorization, SB 5544 , Capital Construction, SB 5545 , 2021-23 Allocations Bill and HB 5045 , 2021-23 Budget Rebalance were all heard in the Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Capital Construction March 3. Look for a Full Ways and Means Committee meeting this week. At the writing of this report we don’t know if the rebalance bills will include early funding for housing/homeless needs ( HB 2001 with the -11 Amendment and HB 5019 ) and SB 4 semiconductor funding requests. Oregon’s reserves are at $2 billion and those funds are not expected to be used, nor is the $3.9 billion kicker money that is expected to be returned to taxpayers. 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 Coastal League members have raised the alarm about a new bill recently filed. HB 3382 would provide certain Ports with an exception from our land use planning system to allow dredging and other activities around these Ports without the current public process and federal consistency requirements. The League has shared our concerns with others. Columbia River Treaty By Phillip Thor The League recently received an update on the negotiations around the U.S. and Canada on the Columbia River Treaty. This included: From 2018 to 2023, the two countries held 15 rounds of negotiations, with the last round of negotiations held on January 25-26, 2023. 27 According to the State Department, the U.S. negotiating position is guided by the U.S. Entity’s Regional Recommendation and includes participation on the negotiating team by the Department of State, BPA, the Corps, the Department of the Interior, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The State Department and the Province of British Columbia have also convened town halls and community meetings to discuss the status of negotiations with the public. Dept. of Environmental Quality The League has followed the story of the water quality/nitrate concentrations that for years, have been affecting the health of residents in the Morrow and Umatilla Counties. Leaguers might want to listen to two residents of Boardman on OPB’s Think Out Loud program. Dept. of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) By Peggy Lynch The League follows the work of this agency and provided testimony in support of SB 220 that would provide a fee to pay for implementation of a new e-permitting system for mining interests instead of using $2 million in General Funds. We also provided t estimony in support of SB 221 to provide ongoing funding for this new system and testimony on SB 222 to allow DOGAMI to accept credit cards and to add the credit card fee to the permittees if they choose to use a credit card. Land Use/Housing By Peggy Lynch We are dismayed by the fact that SB 4 includes “supersiting” authority by the Governor for many acres of farmland “just in case” the semiconductor industry might want to build a new facility in Oregon. There are a number of industrial sites in current urban growth boundaries that will be able to accommodate all but the largest facility. For instance, HP, in Corvallis, is looking at expanding—on its current land. While our housing volunteers follow housing policies, at natural resources, we follow the land use elements of any bills. HB 2001 with the -11 Amendment will include work by the Dept. of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD), including enforcement mechanisms for DLCD—to assure that cities are meeting the targets in the bill. It has been sent to Ways and Means. It is unclear if HB 2001 and HB 5019 will be part of the budget rebalance reported above in this report. A news release issued Feb. 22 announced that HB 5019 will be amended and will be the vehicle for funding the policies in HB 2001-11. See also the Housing Report in the Social Policy section of this Legislative Report. Recycling By Kathy Moyd A Work Session will be held March 7 in Senate Energy and Environment on SB 545 . A -1 Amendment has been posted for consideration. The bill directs the State Department of Agriculture and Oregon Health Authority to adopt rules allowing consumers to use their own containers for refilling with food at a food establishment. The League provided testimony on the base bill in Support. DEQ will be holding the fifth Recycling Modernization Act Rulemaking Advisory Committee meeting from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on March 10. DEQ will be presenting rule concepts related to Confidentiality, Entry of New PROs, Covered Product Estimates, and will be providing a proposal for an implementation transition period. There will also be further discussion related to the practicability benchmark, the responsible end market definition, and specific materials on the materials acceptance list. To attend the meeting please register through this link . To learn more about this rulemaking and the advisory committee, view the rulemaking web page at: Recycling Updates 2023 . Water By Peggy Lynch The League has strong positions on water quality and the importance of wetlands. For a number of years, the League has supported an increase in removal/fill fees so it was easy for us to support HB 2238 . Place-based Planning is a concept that the League has supported since its inception in 2014. We participated in the HB 5006 Work Group where members suggested updating that planning program. HB 3163 would create a special Fund for these regional planning efforts. The League testified in support of the Fund. We are working with others on the specific criteria listed for qualifying for access to the Fund. The Integrated Water Resources Strategy (IWRS) is being updated . Go to the website for opportunities to participate. The League is engaged in discussions on HB 3100 related to the IWRS. We were excited to see that Oregon will receive $19 million to address PFAS chemicals in water systems in small and low-income communities. This OPB article helps explain the award. We have just learned that HB 3207 will be up for a public hearing on March 7 related to domestic well water testing and HB 3208 that would expand the Environmental Quality Commission’s authority to annually adjust additional water quality fees up to 3% per year. The League has participated in a rules advisory committee related to 3% fees for other water quality permits and has been invited to do so again this year. 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. We have an on-going drought throughout Oregon and League members may want to check the U.S. Drought Monitor , a map that is updated every Thursday. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Above you can see the names of League volunteers who covered one or more issues. Volunteers are needed. Please contact Peggy Lynch, Natural Resources Coordinator, at peggylynchor@gmail.com . What is your passion related to Natural Resources? You can help. The 2023 legislative session is almost 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 All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 3/10 Climate Emergency Team Coordinator: Claudia Keith Efficient and Resilient Buildings: Bill Glassmire Environmental Justice: Nancy Rosenberger Environmental Rights Amendment: Claudia Keith Natural Climate Solution - Forestry: Josie Koehne Community Resilince & Emergency Management: Rebecca Gladstone Transportation: Claudia Keith Joint Ways and Means - Budgets, Lawsuits, Green/Public Banking, Divestment/ESG: Claudia Keith Find additional Climate Change Advocacy volunteers in Natural Resources Please see Climate Emergency Overview here . Jump to a topic: Climate Priorities with League Testimony Natural and Working Lands Other Priorities Energy Issues Transportation Priorities Fracking CE Budget Concerns At this point in the session, we have submitted a number of policy Climate Emergency testimonies For the first time, this year most of our priorities are included in the bipartisan 2025 Legislative Environmental Caucus Priorities , Citizens Utility Board (CUB) Priorities and/or Oregon Conservation Network (OCN) priorities . OCN is the only formal environmental lobby coalition group in the building. Consequently, for some of these bills (especially those in a package) the League may just join coalition sign-on letters rather than providing individual testimony. Climate Priorities with League Testimony HB 2966 -3 Establishes the State Public Financing Task Force, Work Session 3/6/2025 passed to JWM, Representative Gamba, Senator Golden, Frederick, Representative Andersen, Evans , House Commerce and Consumer Protection (H CCP) 
 League Testimony 
 HB 3170 , Community Resilience Hubs and networks: Work Session 3/4, passed to JWM, DHS, Sponsors, Rep. Marsh, Sen Pham and Rep Tan. 
 League testimony The following bills are part of a critical Energy Infrastructure (CEI) Emergency Management Package which was the subject of public hearings February 27 and March 6 in the House Energy Management, General Government, and Veterans Committee : HB 215 1: Testimony ; 2152 : Testimony ; 2949 : T estimony ; 3450 : Testimony , See also CEI Hub Seismic Risk Analysis , HB 3450 CEI energy storage transition plan, HEMGGV, League Comments Energy Affordability and Utility Accountability Package HB 3081 ( League testimony ) creates an active navigator to help access energy efficiency incentives all in one place . SB 88 ( League testimony ) limits the ability of utility companies to charge ratepayers for lobbying, litigation costs, fines, marketing, industry fees, and political spending. In addition to our testimony, LWVOR has signed on to letter support each of these bills. The Public Hearing was March 4th. Natural and Working Lands HB 5039 financial administration of the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board; JWM NR SC, PH 2/26, League testimony 
 HB 3103-1 - Overweight Timber Harvest, H ALUNRW, League Oppose Testimony , 3/3 PH. 
 Other Priorities HB 3477 : Update to Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Goals, PH 3/11, League testimony will be posted 3/10. Bringing back SB 1559 (2024) moved to H CEE, Sponsored by Rep GAMBA, Sen Frederick, Golden, Patterson, Pham K, Taylor HB 2566 : Stand-alone Energy resilience Projects – H Governor Tina Kotek
, Public Hearing held 2/11/2024, 2 amendments proposed (H CEE), DOE presentation 
 
 HB 3365 : climate change instruction /curriculum in public schools, Chief Sponsors: Rep Fragala, McDonald , House Education Committee Rep Andersen, Gamba, Lively, Neron, Senator Patterson, Pham, Taylor. House Cm Educ SJR 28 : Environmental Rights Constitutional – Referral, Senate Rules, Amendment Leg Referral - Senator Golden, Representatives Andersen, Gamba, Senators Manning Jr, Prozanski, Representative Tran 
. The League has tentative plans to write testimony (comments) on this bill later this month. 
 
 SB 679 : Climate Liability, (Sen. Golden, Senate Energy and Environment 
 
 SB 680 : Climate Science / Greenwashing, Sen. Golden and Manning, moved to Judiciary, no recommendation, (S J) PH was 2/26 Campos, Frederick, Gorsek, Patterson, Prozanski, Taylor 
 
 SB 681 : Treasury: Fossil Fuel investment moratorium
, Sen Golden, Senate Finance and Revenue 
 
 SB 682 : Climate Superfund Cost Recovery Program Sen. Golden, Rep. Andersen, Gamba, Sen. Campos, Pham , SEE SB 688 : Public Utility Commission performance-based regulation of electric utilities, PH 3/12, we are planning League testimony, Sen. Golden, Sen. Pham, SEE 
 SB 827 : Solar and Storage Rebate, SEE Work session 2/17, Gov. Kotek & DOE, Senate vote 21-7, moves to House 3/4 

 first reading. HB 3546 , the POWER Act , PR was 3/6, The bill requires the Public Utility Commission (PUC) to create a new rate class for the largest energy users in the state. (data centers and other high-volume users). These regulations would only apply to customers in the for-profit utility's service areas of PGE, Pacific Power, and Idaho Power. The League has approved being listed on a coalition sign on advocacy letter . Oregon lawmakers introduce legislation to rein in utility bills | KPTV : Citizens Utility Board CUB presentation here . See the discussion below under House CE&E 3/6 Public Hearing Carbon sequestration/storage: See DOGAMI Agency Budget (see Natural Resources Legislative Report) – Geologic Carbon Dioxide Sequestration Interactive Map | U.S. Geological Survey ( usgs.gov ) .
 
 Energy Issues House CE&E 3/6 Public Hearing on HB 3546 The committee heard testimony on HB 3546 , which would direct the PUC to create a separate classification of service for large energy user facilities (data centers and potentially crypto mining facilities) that draw >20 MW of electricity. PUC would require utilities to enter a 10-year contract obligating such users to pay a minimum amount or percentage for the term of the contract, which could include an excess demand charge. Rates for this customer class would have to be proportional to the costs of serving them, including for transmission, distribution, and capacity. Utilities would have to mitigate the risks to other customer classes of paying for the utility’s increased load requirements. The bill would apply only to large users that submit an application for service on or after the effective date of the act. Rep. Marsh and Sen. Sollman spoke for the bill, noting that growth in energy demand used to be balanced across all users, but data center growth has upset that. Without intervention, the high costs of growing demand will be borne by residential customers rather than large users. The bill is not asking large users to subsidize other users, nor challenging their tax benefits, but requiring them to pay their fair share of the infrastructure needed to serve them. Ten-year contracts would prevent stranded assets from being shifted to other ratepayers. Data centers have a specific massive impact on the grid that is not true of other large energy users. Small businesses as well as residential users are at risk. Bob Jenks of CUB also testified in support, saying we need a rate class for data centers because they put a unique and significant cost on the system. Over the past 10 years, PGE’s load would have actually shrunk if not for this new large load—unprecedented for a single customer class. AI data centers that are coming will draw more load than the city of Eugene. We already have rate classes based on specific usage – irrigation, street lighting, etc. PGE charges residential customers more than twice as much per kWh as it charges data centers. Assigning rates for the data centers will not be unilateral—they can make their case in specific rate cases before PUC. Rep. Osborne objected that Oregon needs more business, and these large users provide a lot of construction jobs, so we don’t want to overburden them or discourage other businesses from locating here. Marsh pointed to generous tax credits that are available to encourage this form of economic development. Green Energy Institute noted that data center owners are among the largest, richest corporations in the world and should not be subsidized by residential users. Google spokespeople took a neutral stance, saying they can support many elements of the bill but want to work with the committee to "improve" it by bringing other large energy users under its requirements. They said load growth reflects economic opportunities as well as challenges, and recent growth points to the need to reverse our underinvestment in critical infrastructure. In other states, Google has been able to strike agreement with multiple constituencies to come up with a framework that can work elsewhere. Key pillars: (1) Require all new large loads to sign long-term contracts so the new load is committed. (2) Commit the large users to pay minimum infrastructure charges to “de-risk” investments. (3) New large loads need to back up their load requests with "significant collateral"—e.g., multiple years of minimum payments have to be posted as a letter of credit so the utility can pay for these investments if the large user leaves the system. They would like to see a similar model adopted in Oregon. Senate E&E heard testimony 3/5 on Sen. Brock Smith's three nuclear bills SB 215 – Repeals the requirement that there be a licensed repository for the disposal of high-level radioactive waste before a site certificate for a nuclear-fueled thermal power plant may be issued in Oregon. If the bill is enacted, the repeal would have to be submitted to a referendum of Oregonians at the next regular general election. SB 216 – Repeals the above requirement by legislation alone. SB 635 – Directs OSU to conduct a feasibility study on nuclear energy generation in Oregon—advantages and disadvantages, maximizing jobs for Oregonians, technical issues. The meeting began with invited testimony from ODOE's Max Woods, mainly on nuclear safety and storage methods; an upbeat sales pitch by Kati Augsten, Nuclear Energy Institute, for nuclear plants in general and small nuclear reactors in particular; and a more sober assessment by Chris Hansen, Institute for Western Energy, who despite being a self-proclaimed nuclear enthusiast, poured some cold water on the previous presentation. According to Hansen, we are not seeing cost reductions in the marketplace for nuclear as we've seen for renewables. Unless we can lower the cost by more than a third, "nuclear power will have only a marginal role in the U.S. energy portfolio going forward." Clean options such as geothermal and hydro provide stiff competition for new nuclear units in the West. Grid enhancing technologies and grid expansions are likely to be more cost-effective in the near- to mid-term. Brock Smith and Rep. Diehl spoke for the bills, saying Oregonians need to have another vote on this (SB 215) as a lot has changed in the past 45 years. According to them, without nuclear, we won't have the baseload capacity to achieve all the electrification we need in order to decarbonize. Brock Smith said amendments are coming, some conforming and others to authorize our agencies to start looking at regulatory changes. Sen. Frederick spoke in opposition, saying he is skeptical of glorifying and overhyping nuclear power, as we were told 50 years ago that the waste issue would be solved by now. He noted that the outlook from Washington (DC) is unsettling, as the Project 2025 team has decided we can live with a larger amount of radiation, and they have fired some federal employees with nuclear expertise. Testimony followed from Sierra Club, Columbia Riverkeeper and some pro-nuclear advocates with predictable claims and counterclaims. Chair Sollman carried over the hearings until next Monday 3/10 so more people can testify House CE&E reported out the following bills with do-pass recommendations CE&E reported out the following bills with do-pass recendations: HB 2567-1 would adjust the rules and reporting requirements of the Heat Pump Deployment Program . ODOE could establish an allowable percentage by rule for administrative expenses and marketing costs for eligible entities, removing the existing statutory cap of 15%. The -1 amendment would allow ODOE to provide an additional incentive of up to $1,000 for contractors to install residential heat pumps in rural and frontier communities. The bill would replace the phrase “environmental justice community” with the phrase “disadvantaged community” throughout the statute, defined as “a community that has a socioeconomic burden and an environmental, climate or other burden.” It would extend the program’s sunset date from 2026 to 2032. The bill has minimal fiscal impact as it provides no additional funding for the program. Moved as amended to the House floor, rescinding subsequent referral to Joint W&M. HB 3170 would modify the grant requirements for Resilience Hubs and Resilience Networks and appropriate an additional $10.2M from the General Fund and $227K from federal funds to DHS for the grant program in 2025-27. It would clarify that the purpose of the grants is to pay for equipment, technical assistance, contracted services, and any other type of support needed to create or sustain a Resilience Hub or Network. DHS received more than 700 applications with $176M in grant requests during the first award cycle, and expects similar interest in the coming biennium. Referred to Joint W&M by prior reference. The committee also heard testimony on HB 3081 (One-Stop Shop 2.0), which would require ODOE to create a statewide clearinghouse for household energy efficiency incentive programs. It would create an active navigator to provide Oregonians with easier access to the hundreds of different incentives and cash rebates available for upgrades like heat pumps, weatherization, and sturdier doors and windows. HB 3081 would build on the One Stop Shop 1.0 search tool by offering live phone support to help Oregonians navigate their options and connect with trusted contractors. It would also require the information and assistance to be provided in the five most prevalent non-English languages spoken in Oregon. Oral testimony in support came from Climate Solutions, OLCV, Earth Advantage, Home Performance Guild of Oregon, and others. OMEU and ORECA posted written testimony in opposition, noting that consumer-owned utilities and coops already provide expert advice to their customers on BPA-funded and utility-specific rebates, and already invest heavily in developing their own rebate websites and marketing strategies, making HB 3081 a duplicative effort. Senate E&E 3/3 and 3/6 Hearings on SB88 Senate E&E heard testimony on SB 88 on 3/3 and 3/6. The bill would prohibit an electric or gas company from recovering from ratepayers’ expenses associated with advertising, political influence activity, litigation, penalties or fines and certain compensation. PUC would have to limit by rule the amount that a utility could recover from ratepayers to defend such expenses in a contested rate case. Each utility would have to file an annual report with PUC identifying such expenses. PUC would have to establish a fine for noncompliance and could order a utility to refund any amounts recovered for violating the act. Chair Sollman opened by saying this bill won’t save ratepayers a lot of money – it’s first and foremost about transparency – what business expenses should be considered the responsibility of utility customers. CUB, Climate Solutions, Rogue Climate, OSSIA and other organizations testified in support, as did LWVOR in written testimony . They said utilities have the upper hand in rate proceedings and SB 88 is a step toward balancing the scales. Customers should pay for infrastructure improvements and investments in reliability, but not for the utilities’ public image building, lobbying, executive bonuses, etc. Utilities shouldn’t be allowed to "throw items at the wall to see if they’ll stick." The bill would authorize penalties, beyond standard disallowances, for utilities who try to get away with that. Other states have adopted similar legislation. Cascade Natural Gas, NW Natural, and NW Gas Association opposed the bill, saying utilities already have to justify all their costs before the PUC and they ultimately have the burden of proof. NW Natural denied that it seeks to recover expenses for lobbying, public relations, etc. The current PUC process is transparent and fair. Reporting requirements in the bill are onerous and could wind up costing customers more. Legislative Council has suggested that the bill could violate the 1st, 5th, and 14th amendments with regard to free speech and equal protection. PGE and PacifiCorp offered no testimony. Following the hearing, PUC furnished a helpful table showing their interpretation of what SB 88 would change with regard to recoverable utility expenses. Transportation Priorities Transportation package that prioritizes climate, equity, and wildlife According to OCN Press Rel ease, “This package would build on the historic gains of HB 2017 (which included investments in public transit, safe routes to School, and vehicle electrification), to shift the focus to multimodal, safety, and climate-forward investments. This promises to create a system that saves money over time and builds a more resilient, equitable, and healthy future for all Oregonians.” Fracking The League continues to be concerned about Fracking issues. The fracking moratorium in Oregon, expired on January 2, 2025. [ 1 , 2 ] Here's a more detailed explanation: [ 1 , 2 , 3 ] Moratorium End Date: The temporary ban on fracking for oil and gas production and exploration in Oregon, established by House Bill 2623, was set to end on January 2, 2025. [ 1 , 2 , 3 ] Governor's Signature: Oregon Governor Kate Brown signed the legislation on June 17, 2019. [ 1 ] Legislative Action: The Oregon Senate passed the bill on May 29, 2019, with a 17-11 vote. [ 3 , 4 ] Exemptions: The bill included exemptions for natural gas storage wells, geothermal activities, and existing coalbed methane extraction wells. [ 3 ] Current Status: The moratorium has expired, and fracking is no longer prohibited in Oregon. [ 1 , 2 ] [1] https://aglaw.psu.edu/shale-law-in-the-spotlight/oregon-and-washington-enact-hydraulic-fracturing-bans/ [2] https://climate-xchange.org/2024/08/policy-explainer-drilling-down-on-state-efforts-to-ban-fracking/ [3] https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/senatedemocrats/Documents/HB2623Fracking.pdf [4] https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/2019/05/29/oregon-senate-passes-5-year-fracking-moratorium/1271400001/ CE Budget Concerns In order to stay on track, the Legislature must prioritize investments for vital climate and community protection programs. Without additional appropriations this session, the following existing successful programs may run out of funding: Community Renewable Energy Grant Program (ODOE) Rental Home Heat Pump Program (ODOE) Community Heat Pump Program (ODOE) Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program/Charge Ahead (DEQ) Medium and Heavy-Duty Vehicles Rebates + Infrastructure Grants (DEQ) Community Resilience Hubs and Networks (ODHS) Climate Change Worker Relief Fund (DAS) Oregon Solar + Storage Rebate Program (ODOE) Natural & Working Lands Fund (OWEB) (excerpt from OCEN network message) Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Governance , Natural Resources , 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):

Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 3/13 Climate Emergency Team Coordinator: Claudia Keith Efficient and Resilient Buildings: Bill Glassmire Environmental Justice: Nancy Rosenberger Environmental Rights Amendment: Claudia Keith Natural Climate Solution - Forestry: Josie Koehne Community Resilince & Emergency Management: Rebecca Gladstone Transportation: Claudia Keith 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 Resilient Building Equity and Environmental Justice Interstate 5 Bridge Project Oregon Economic Analysis Oregon Treasury Climate Related Lawsuits: Oregon and… Climate Emergency Priorities By Claudia Keith, Climate Emergency Coordinator The League has identified six priority CE policy and budget topics. Find in previous LR reports additional background on each priority. All these priority bills were likely to have work sessions scheduled by 3/17, the session First Chamber Policy Committee Deadline. Following are updates on those six topics: 1. Natural and Working Lands : SB 530 LWVOR Alert : 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 . The fiscal has not been posted. 2. Resilient Buildings (RB): LWVOR Alert : The League is an active RB coalition partner. BR campaign guiding principles . Informational Hearing was 3/14 , PH is 3/16 . Link to League testimonies: SB 868 , 869 , 870 and 871 . The fiscals have not yet been posted. 3. Environmental Justice (EJ): 2023 Leg bills. The League joined the Worker Advocate Coalition on 2/13 and SB 593 is one of two bills the League will follow and support. The ‘Right to Refuse dangerous work’ SB 907 , PH 3/16 . SB 907 League Testimony. See below for more details. 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 . PH was 2/21, highlights: Sen Dembrow’s “ OGWC Modernization Presentation “ and American Planning Association testimony. 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. We provided testimony on the Oregon Dept. of Energy (ODOE) budget ( HB 5016 ), requesting additional agency requests that were not included in the Governor’s budget. Other CE Bills - Supporting By Claudia Keith HB 2763 Creates a State public bank Task Force, Chief sponsors: Rep Gamba, Sen Golden, Rep Walters. The League provided testimony . Work Session was scheduled for March 9 w -1 amendment . Partisan 4-3 vote moves the bill to JWM . HB 2087 . Forest Products Harvest Tax League Testimony . See Keep Oregon Cool, Natural Working Lands. Other CE Bills – Following - May Support By Claudia Keith HB 3016 community green infrastructure, Rep Pham K, Senator Dembrow, Rep Gamba. Work Session 3/15 Clean Energy By Kathy Moyd HB 2530 -1 Directs State Department of Energy to, where appropriate, seek and apply for federal funds, and support other applications for federal funds, to be used to support development and deployment of renewable hydrogen and green electrolytic hydrogen. Directs department to provide education and increase awareness regarding renewable hydrogen and green electrolytic hydrogen. Defines "renewable hydrogen" and "green electrolytic hydrogen." Passed the House Climate, Energy, and Environment Committee with a 6 -3 bipartisan vote. HB 3196 Authorizes the Environmental Quality Commission to establish by rule fee to be paid by community climate investment entities (part of the Climate Protection Program). Establishes Community Climate Investment Oversight Account. The League provided verbal and written Testimony . HB 2534 -1 Requires the State Department of Energy to develop a comprehensive state energy strategy that identifies optimized pathways to achieving state's energy policy objectives. Requires department to engage with state agencies, federally recognized Indian tribes and stakeholders in developing state energy strategy. Permits the department to convene an advisory work group. Requires department to periodically update state energy strategy. Directs the department to produce a report regarding state energy strategy and submit a report to the Governor and appropriate interim committees of the Legislative Assembly no later than November 1, 2025. Passed the House Climate, Energy, and Environment Committee with a unanimous vote. Resilient Buildings By Arlene Sherrett We’re in the process of gathering support for the Resilient Buildings legislation hearings. Amended text was rolled out for SB 868-1 , 869-1 , and 870-1 (SB 871-1 still lags behind the others) this week and an informational hearing was held March 14, 2023. Members of the task force that worked on the foundation of the bill appeared to testify for it and other members attended in support. Committee members had questions about costs; one answer was that it is still unknown exactly how much federal money will be coming, but it is lots. Generally, support was expressed for passing the bills with one notable exception: Northwest Natural expressed some ongoing concerns with the bills but did not elaborate on what they were at the hearing. At this point nearly all written testimony supports the bills. Refer to the adopted Legislative Joint Task Force on Resilient Efficient Buildings (REB) Dec 13 Report for more background. Information from the Oregon Conservation Network on each bill is available at the Building Resilience website . Access to the task force mailing list is through Nora Apter at noraa@oeconline.org . HB 3166, a whole-home energy savings program offering rebates for installing various electric energy high-efficiency devices and establishing a one stop for much needed information on incentives and technical assistance, was heard and is now waiting for referral to W&Ms. This bill dovetails with SB 869-1 (above). The only amendment was language declaring an emergency. HB 3056-3 extending funding for the heat pump grant and rebate program, was adopted by the House Climate, Energy and Environment Committee. The Fiscal Impact Statement shows a cost of $20.8M to be spent in the 2023-25 biennium. HB 3152 - 2 relates to residential gas utility ratepayers’ responsibility to pay or not pay for gas utility line extensions. The bill seeks to make sure that PUC regulations align with greenhouse gas emissions reduction requirements, do not delay timely implementation of greenhouse gas emissions reduction, and mitigate energy burden and risks of stranded assets for residential utility customers. A panel of speakers presented arguments for and against and over 50 pieces of written testimony came in, with approximately two thirds opposing. Two Public Hearings 3/1 and 3/13 . CE Equity and Environmental Justice By Arlene Sherrett SB 852 was up for a work session in the Senate Energy and Environment 3/7 and moved to JW&M. The bill directs the Department of Energy to establish a program especially for EJ communities to provide assistance with energy projects and activities. Fiscal $315K. HB 3196 PH 3/8 includes special provisions for Environmental Justice Communities but may not be exclusively targeted to the needs of those communities. How to navigate the online legislative website: Start here: Citizen Engagement Home (oregonlegislature.gov) Just about everything you need to know is on this page: attend a virtual committee meeting, attend a meeting at the capitol, look up a bill, follow updates on bill progress or receive email news from a Legislator. And much more, with more topics to click on down the left-hand sid. Interstate 5 (I5) Bridge Project By Liz Stewart and Arlene Sherrett Still in the analytical stages of the project. Stakeholders have been identified and engaged in the process of understanding the need to replace the bridge and options for what could responsibly replace it, as well as financial, environmental, cultural and community costs and risks of the project to ensure we get the best solution possible in bridge replacement. Washington state has committed to $1 billion for the project. The first appropriation is expected by July 2023. The remaining allocations to take place in progress appropriate amounts every two years until bridge completion. Oregon congressional and senate stakeholders are being lobbied to obtain their firm commitment to $1 billion. Draft Environmental Impact Statement to be released early this fall. It will have a 45–60-day comment period once that is released. Final environmental impact decision anticipated in 2024. Finance plan will be released in March and updated annually. Section 106 impacts (historical, cultural, archeological) are in process of being identified and stakeholders engaged. An online public open house is planned for April. The project team has held meetings to discuss the cost estimate, including scope, funding, and economic impacts. They are working with local and national equity leaders to create a framework for development of the tolling projects that result in benefits for communities that have traditionally been disproportionately negatively impacted by transportation decisions. The Equity and Mobility Advisory Committee (EMAC) has worked to help identify strategies to improve outcomes and access to travel choices for all demographics. They continue to explore equitable strategies used in other parts of the country, including reduced or free transponders, cash payment options for unbanked individuals, rebates or discounts for different income levels, and integrating benefits between travel modes, such as transit passes that accumulate toll credits. Oregon Economic Analysis By Claudia Keith The Oregon Economic and Revenue Forecast was released Feb 22. The next forecast is due May 17. JW&M recommended budget will use the May forecast to balance the budget. The Oregon Office of Economic Analysis has continued to ignore the recommended SEC Climate Risk disclosure rule. Recent Bank Failures May Indicate Problems with Going Concern Standards, Liquidity Risk Disclosure Rules| Reuters. “… Focus on Traditional Financials: In addition, Baumann had some criticisms that the SEC may be too focused on non-traditional disclosures, such as environmental, social and governance (ESG) matters. “The SEC is very interested in new climate disclosures, but fundamental things like risks in the financial statements of a bank, and understanding those financial statements, maybe some of the fundamentals, and blocking and tackling, some of those things may have been ignored,” he said. “I’m not opposed to ESG; I’m just saying maybe there is excessive focus on climate related disclosures versus issues like bank liquidity and asset liability duration risk. ESG isn’t going to take down our country, but inadequate disclosure of banking liquidity risks may.”.…” SEC Chair Responds to Questions on Potential Lawsuit on Climate Disclosure , Fast Paced Rulemaking | Reuters. 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, contingent on formation of an Oregon Green Bank Up To $27B Available for NPO Clean Energy Activities . Green Bank's Public-Private Partnership Secures Carbon Credits for EV Charging Systems. The Economic Tides Just Turned for States | RMI. Treasurer Tobias Read Releases First -Ever Oregon Financial Wellness Scorecard| OST. 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. Bill Calls for Oregon to Divest From Fossil Fuels | Chief Investment Officer CIO. ESG Battlegrounds: How the States Are Shaping the Regulatory Landscape in the U.S. | Harvard 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 , (March 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 62 lawsuits with OREGON mentioned. Climate lawsuits: Hawaii Supreme Court Unanimously Rejects Big Island's Hu Honua Power Project - Honolulu Civil Beat. Older Swiss women take government to court over climate | Climate News | Al Jazeera Our Children’s Trust: March 15, 2023: Judge Denies 18 Republican Attorneys’ General Request to Intervene in Constitutional Climate Case Juliana v. United States . Oregon and PNW News Oregon eyes mandate for climate change lessons in schools | AP News. Oregon’s uncertain electric future - oregonlive. NW Natural in existential fight as Oregon eyes electrification - oregonlive.. What Oregon lawmakers propose to make buildings more energy-efficient | Northwest | ncwlife. U.S. Senate panel probes how crypto mining increases energy consumption – Oregon Capital Chronicle National & Global Here are the most and least disaster-prone states | The Hill. Alaska's Willow oil project is controversial. Here's why . | AP. Climate bright spot: Building sector decarbonization is well underway | The Hill. Opinion : What if climate change meant not doom — but abundance? By Rebecca Solnit | WP. Larry Fink (BlackRock Chairman and CEO) finds way to dodge ESG crosshairs | Reuters. Biden Wants Climate Change, Approves Willow Oil Drilling Project – Rolling Stone. FACT SHEET: President Biden’s Budget Lowers Energy Costs, Combats the Climate Crisis, and Advances Environmental Justice | 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.

Follow revenue related items with the League of Women Voters of Oregon. Revenue Reports December 1, 2025 Legislative Report - Week of December 1 On Nov. 19, legislators received the latest Revenue Forecast. (An in-depth version is here.) Oregonlive covered the forecast helpfully. They provide an in-depth Revenue Outlook. The Oregon Capital Insider also provided a good article. However, we still have two economies: One for the wealthy and one for low-income Oregonians—the “k” economy. Read More October 13, 2025 Legislative Report - Week of October 13 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. Read More October 13, 2025 Legislative Report - Week of October 13 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. Read More June 16, 2025 Legislative Report - Week of 6/16 Oregon House Bill 2321 seeks to study Oregon’s property tax system, with a focus on Ballot Measures 5 and 50. Ballot measure 5, passed in 1990, set limits on property taxes through a hybrid levy- and rate-based system originally intended to control rapidly increasing property tax costs. This was a departure from the previous property tax system, which relied on tax levies set by each district as a function of specific budget needs. Read More May 19, 2025 Legislative Report - Week of 5/19 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. Read More May 12, 2025 Legislative Report - Week of 5/12 We are all waiting for the May 14th Revenue Forecast from our State Economist Carl Riccadonna at the Office of Economic Analysis to be presented to the Senate Committee on Finance and Revenue at 8 a.m. The Economist will provide a verbal presentation with slides as well as providing a more complete in-depth report on his view of the world, the U.S. and Oregon’s economic outlook for 2025-27. Read More April 21, 2025 Legislative Report - Week of 4/21 House Bill 3049 (introduced) seeks to modify provisions for corporate excise tax exemptions for businesses operating in economically lagging areas. This bill was discussed during an informational session with the House Revenue Committee on 4/15/25 in response to a request for an interim report on the bill from LRO. Read More April 14, 2025 Legislative Report - Week of 4/14 House Bill 3049 was introduced at the request of Governor Tina Kotek for Oregon Business Development Department. It seeks to modify provisions for corporate excise tax exemptions for businesses operating in economically lagging areas. While this exemption exists in Oregon currently, the program is believed to be underutilized due to complex eligibility calculations. The new bill provides simplified methods to determine eligibility and employee wage requirements, and limits the amount of exemptions that a single business may claim. Read More April 9, 2025 Legislative Report - Week of 4/7 House Bill 2362 aims to implement tiered estate tax exemptions based on the size of the taxable estate. The exemption amount would vary based on the estate's value, and would phase out for larger estates. As a result, this bill would modernize Oregon’s estate tax exemption policy with respect to inflation and appreciation of assets over time. Read More Revenue Overview The League of Women Voters of Oregon is actively working toward a more accessible government, better educational resources, statewide privacy protections and more. Read More

Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 3/31 Climate Emergency Team Coordinator: Claudia Keith Efficient and Resilient Buildings: Bill Glassmire Environmental Justice: Nancy Rosenberger Environmental Rights Amendment: Claudia Keith Natural Climate Solution - Forestry: Josie Koehne Community Resilince & Emergency Management: Rebecca Gladstone Transportation: Claudia Keith Joint Ways and Means - Budgets, Lawsuits, Green/Public Banking, Divestment/ESG: Claudia Keith Find additional Climate Change Advocacy volunteers in Natural Resources Please see Climate Emergency Overview here. Jump to a topic: Environmental Justice Bills Climate Priority Advocacy Groups Climate Priorities with League Testimony , League Endorsement Critical Energy Infrastructure (CEI) Emergency Management Package Energy Affordability and Utility Accountability Package Climate Treasury Investment Bills Natural and Working Lands Other Priorities Priority Bills That Died In Policy Committee Climate Emergency JWM Budget Concerns Senate E&E Committee - March 24 House CE&E - March 25 House CE&E - March 27 Environmental Caucus Session Update - Bipartisan News and Commission Meetings SJR 28 -1 , Environmental Rights Constitutional amendment Senate Joint resolution - with referral to the 2026 ballot, public hearing was 3/26 . The League provided support with comments testimony . The bill is in Sen Rules, so the Legislative deadlines are not applicable. A Work Session is not yet scheduled. The a mendment is a partial rewrite. LWV has provided guidance given over 26 states have or are in the process of having green / environmental rights constitutional topics or initiatives usually a legislation – referral to the people. New Mexico green amendment campaign focuses on racial justice. Environmental Justice Bills SB 54 : Work Session 3/31. The bill requires landlords provide cooling for residential units . The League endorsed and added our name to a Oregon Justice Transition Alliance (OJTA), sign-on letter . 
 HB2548 : establishes an agriculture workforce labor standards board, League Testimony . Work Session is 4/2. 
 Climate Priority Advocacy Groups For the first time, this year most of our priorities are included in the bipartisan 2025 Legislative Environmental Caucus Priorities , Citizens Utility Board (CUB) Priorities and/or Oregon Conservation Network (OCN) priorities . OCN is the only formal environmental lobby coalition group in the capitol. Consequently, for some of these bills (especially those in a package) the League may just join coalition sign-on letters rather than providing individual testimony. Climate Priorities with League Testimony with League Endorsement and Still Alive HB 3170 : Community Resilience Hubs and networks : Work Session 3/4, passed to JWM, DHS, Sponsors, Rep. Marsh, Sen Pham and Rep Tan. League testimony 
 
 
 Critical Energy Infrastructure (CEI) Emergency Management Package The follo The following four bills are part of a package which was the subject of public hearings February 27 and March 6 in the House Energy Management, General Government, and Veterans Committee: HB 215 1: Testimony ; appears dead HB 2152 : Testimony ; work session 4/1 HB 2949 : T estimony ; work session 4/1 HB 3450 : Testimony , work session 3/27, see also CEI Hub Seismic Risk Analysis 
 HB 3450 CEI energy storage transition plan, HEMGGV, League Comments 
 
 work session 4/1 Energy Affordability and Utility Accountability Package HB 3081 ( League testimony ) work session 4/8, creates an active navigator to help access energy efficiency incentives all in one place 
 SB 88 ( League testimony ) work session was 3/24, limits the ability of utility companies to charge ratepayers for lobbying, litigation costs, fines, marketing, industry fees, and political spending. 
 Moved to Sen Rules. In addition to our testimony, LWVOR joined the Oregon Conservation Network, coordinated through the Oregon League of Conservation Voters, in sign-on letters supporting both HB 3081 and SB 88. PH 3 / 4 Climate Treasury Investment Bills SB 681 : Dead: Treasury: Fossil Fuel investment moratorium, Senate Finance and Revenue, PH 3/19. testimony. Sen Golden. 
 HB 2200 work session 4/1: requested by Treasury Sec Tobias ESG investing, identified as the compromise bill. League – NO Comment, HC EMGGV, PH was 3/13. 
 HB 2966 A: Establishes the State Public Financing Task Force, Work Session 3/6/2025 passed to Joint Ways and Means (JWM), Representative Gamba, Senator Golden, Frederick, Representative Andersen, Evans , House Commerce and Consumer Protection (H CCP) 
 League Testimony 
 
 
 
 Natural and Working Lands HB 5039 financial administration of the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board; JWM NR SC, League testimony 
 
 
 
 HB 3103-1 – work session 3/31. Overweight Timber Harvest , H ALUNRW, League Oppose Testimony , -1 amendment . 
 Other Priorities HB 2566 -3 Stand-alone Energy resilience Projects , Work Session was 3/20, moved to JWM, Rep Gamba was the only nay, Governor Tina Kotek, (H CEE), DOE presentation 
 
 
 
 
 HB 3365 : work session 4/7, climate change instruction /curriculum in public schools, House Cm Educ, PH was 3/12, League Testimony Chief Sponsors: Rep Fragala, Rep McDonald , Rep Andersen, Gamba, Lively, Neron, Senator Patterson, Pham, Taylor. 
 
 
 SB 1187 new Climate cost recovery Liability interagency bill , PH 4/7, possible work session 4/9, Sen. Golden, Senate Energy and Environment 
 
(Replaces SB 679 and SB 682 : 
 SB 688 : -5 Public Utility Commission performance-based regulation of electric utilities, PH 3/12,& 3/19, work session was 3/24, moved to JWM , League testimony , Sen. Golden, Sen. Pham, SEE 
 
 
 SB 827 : Solar and Storage Rebate , SEE Work session 2/17, Gov. Kotek & DOE, Senate voted 21-7, moves to House 3/4 

 first reading. 
 referred to H CEE 3/10 
 HB 3546 , the POWER Act , work session 4/8, PR was 3/6, The bill requires the Public Utility Commission (PUC) to create a new rate class for the largest energy users in the state. (data centers and other high-volume users). These regulations would only apply to customers in the for-profit utility's service areas of PGE, Pacific Power, and Idaho Power. The League has approved being listed on a coalition sign on advocacy letter . 
 
 
 Oregon lawmakers introduce legislation to rein in utility bills | KPTV 
 
 
 Citizens Utility Board CUB presentation here . 
 
 
 SB 1143 : NEW bill , PH was 3/19 and Work session 4/2, SEE , PUC established a pilot program that allows each NG Co to develop a utility-scale thermal energy network (TEN) pilot project to provide heating and cooling services to customers. Senator Lieber, Sollman, Representative Levy B, Senator Smith DB, Representative Andersen, Marsh. Example: Introduction to the MIT Thermal Energy Networks (MITTEN) Plan for Rapid and Cost-Effective Campus Decarbonization. 
 Climate Solutions : Thermal Energy Networks win win : 
 Carbon sequestration/storage: See DOGAMI Agency Budget (see Natural Resources Legislative Report) – Geologic Carbon Dioxide Sequestration Interactive Map | U.S. Geological Survey ( usgs.gov ) .
 
 
 
 Priority Bills that died in policy committee Some of these related to funding may appear in the end of session reconciliation (Xmas tree) bill. HB 3477 : Update to Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Goals. League testimony . House Climate, Energy, and Environment (CEE), Sponsored by Rep GAMBA, Sen Frederick, Golden, Patterson, Pham K, Taylor 
 
 
 SB 680 : Climate Science/Greenwashing, Sen. Golden and Manning, moved to Judiciary , no recommendation, (SJ) PH was 2/26 Campos, Frederick, Gorsek, Patterson, Prozanski, Taylor 
 
 
 
 Climate Emergency JWM Budget Concerns In order to stay on track, the Legislature must prioritize investments for vital environmental justice, climate and community protection programs (CPP). Without additional appropriations this session, the following existing successful climate, CPP and environmental justice programs may run out of funding: Community Renewable Energy Grant Program (ODOE) 
 
 Rental Home Heat Pump Program (ODOE) 
 
 Community Heat Pump Program (ODOE) 
 
 Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program/Charge Ahead (DEQ) 
 
 Medium and Heavy-Duty Vehicles Rebates + Infrastructure Grants (DEQ) 
 
 Community Resilience Hubs and Networks (ODHS) 
 
 Climate Change Worker Relief Fund (DAS) 
 
 Oregon Solar + Storage Rebate Program (ODOE) 
 
 Natural & Working Lands Fund (OWEB) Senate E&E Committee SB 88 (Get the Junk Out of Rates) – Prohibits an electric or gas utility from recovering from ratepayers’ costs or expenses associated with advertising, political influence activity, litigation, penalties or fines and certain compensation. The committee voted unanimously to refer the bill to Rules without recommendation. SB 688-5 – Allows the PUC to adopt a framework for carrying out performance-based regulation of electric utilities, and appropriates $500,000 to PUC for that purpose. The fiscal note estimates an all-funds impact of $974,013 and 0.75 FTE in 2025-27, including $750K GF and the rest funded through the PUC’s annual fee on regulated utilities. The committee voted to move the bill to Joint W&M with a do-pass recommendation (Robinson nay). The committee also heard testimony on SB 1178 , which would require that 10% of electricity sold in Oregon by each IOU be generated by small-scale renewable energy facilities (capacity of 20 Mw or less) or biomass facilities that are not owned by the IOU. Current law provides that at least 10% of the aggregate electrical capacity of all IOUs in Oregon be generated by small-scale renewable energy or biomass facilities. As explained by James Williams, Community Renewable Energy Assn., electrical capacity is only one-third of actual generation, so this bill would triple the amount of independently produced small-scale power the utilities would have to sell. He said these small projects are important for rural economies and more palatable than large projects. PGE and PacifiCorp oppose the bill, saying it greatly expands the small-scale renewable mandate in HB 2021, "moves the goalpost" and cuts against the legislature’s intent to address utility bill increases. House CE&E - March 25 HB 3823 Revenue without recommendation. The bill would provide a property tax break for personal property used by a business to generate or store energy for consumption by the business on its premises. Rep. Gamba asked for the record that Revenue clarify whether diesel generators installed at data centers would also be included in the exemption – he believes they are real property and thus would still be taxed -- and whether the exemption would apply to actual battery storage systems. Chair Lively carried over work sessions on the following bills because expected amendments are not ready yet: HB 3336 – Declares state policy for electric utilities to a. Meet the required clean energy targets set forth in ORS 469A.410; b. Develop sufficient resources to meet load growth; c. Create efficiencies and resilience in the transmission system; and d. Maintain energy affordability. Utilities would have to file strategic plans with the PUC for using grid enhancing technologies (defined in the bill) where doing so is cost-effective and update the plans every two years. A utility would have to carry out its first filed strategic plan by January 1, 2030. HB 2961 – Increases the percentage of electrical service capacity for EV charging that must be installed in parking garages or other parking areas of new multifamily and mixed-use buildings with privately owned commercial space and five or more residential dwelling units HB 2063-1 to Joint W&M with a do-pass recommendation. It would create the Agrivoltaics Task Force staffed by DLCD. Fiscal impact estimate is $238,978 for 0.75 FTE to manage the project. The committee held a work session on HB 2961 , which would raise the percentage of EV charging capacity that must be installed in parking garages or other parking areas of new multifamily and mixed-use buildings with privately owned commercial space and five or more residential units. The proposed -4 amendment would raise the threshold for installation from 5 residential units to 10, a concession to rural communities. Rep. Osborne strongly opposed the bill, saying it will raise the cost of housing, and pushed the -2 amendment, which would delay the mandate until criteria for new housing construction, housing costs, homelessness, and electricity rates are met for four consecutive years. The committee could not agree on whether to vote on the amendments. Chair Lively said more amendments are not feasible as “we’ve overloaded Lege Council.” He carried over the WS to allow more discussion offline. The chair also carried over another half dozen work sessions on bills for which amendments and/or fiscal impact statements were not available. These included HB 3336 , requiring electric utilities to file strategic plans with the PUC for using grid enhancing technologies (GETs), which had been carried over previously. House CE&E - March 27 HB 3868 – Requires ODOE to study avoided costs paid to qualifying facilities under the federal Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act (PURPA) compared with the costs incurred by IOUs to acquire or maintain renewable energy generation facilities. Rep. Helm said the data used to calculate avoided costs for rate setting are in a “black box” that the IOUs bring to PUC. The bill would bring transparency to avoided-cost calculations. CREA and OSSIA supported while PGE opposed, noting that PUC has a regulatory docket open on this process and the bill might conflict with that determination. HB 3874 – Increases from 50 MW to 100 MW the minimum size that a wind energy facility needs to be before the facility must obtain a site certificate from the Energy Facility Siting Council. CREA and Renewable Northwest supported; no opposition. HB 3927 – Requires ODOE to study the need to expand electric transmission infrastructure in Oregon. It would create the Oregon Electric Transmission Expansion Fund and appropriate $8 billion over the next five biennia for deposit in the fund. The -1 amendment would lower the long-term appropriation to $1.6 billion. More amendments are coming to expand the scope of the required study. Rep. Edwards argued for the bill saying energy transmission is economic development, and our outdated infrastructure causes lost jobs and lost revenue for local governments Environmental Caucus Session Update - Bipartisan Environmental Caucus Session Update - bipartisan (abridged) March 24, 2025 April 9 is the upcoming deadline for most bills to have a work session and get voted out of their committees and onto the floor of the first chamber. You'll see a lot of activity in committees over the next few weeks in efforts to keep bills alive. Bills in Joint committees, in Rules, Revenue, and Conduct are exempt from this timeline. Environmental Caucus Priority Bills We're Watching This Week SJR 28 is a ballot referral for the 2026 general election that asks Oregonians to vote on whether or not to enshrine the right to a healthy environment in the Oregon constitution. You might be familiar with this concept from last year's ruling in Montana that sided in favor of Our Children's Trust, who were suing the state over their right to a clean and healthful environment. You can find out more about the Oregon effort here . The Oregon Legislature’s Environmental Caucus is composed of members who believe that our state requires bold environmental action and are dedicated to furthering policy that benefits the natural resources, wildlife, economy, and communities of Oregon. Current Members Sen. Jeff Golden Rep. Mark Gamba Rep. Courtney Neron Sen. Khanh Pham Rep. Tom Andersen Rep. Ben Bowman Sen. Anthony Broadman Rep. Farrah Chaichi Rep. Willy Chotzen Rep. David Gomberg Sen. Chris Gorsek Rep. Ken Helm Rep. Zach Hudson Rep. John Lively Rep. Pam Marsh Rep. Travis Nelson Rep. Mark Owens Sen. Deb Patterson Sen. Kathleen Taylor Rep. Jules Walters Please find additional info in Natural Resource Legislative reports including reports addressing carbon sequestration / storage, geothermal energy geological / fracking issues, wildfire and energy facility siting / land use issues. News and Commission Meetings Oregon Climate Action Commission to Meet Virtually on April 11, 2025 — Energy Info Gov. Kotek seeks answers from state utility commission amid public outcry over rising utility rates : In a letter to the Public Utility Commission, Kotek asked for more information about how the commission would keep rates low following 50% rate hikes in last five years |OCC US Supreme Court will not hear novel youth-led climate change case | Reuters Trump admin considers killing big energy projects in Dem states - POLITICO Trump funding uncertainty threatens rapid bus plan , other Portland climate projects - oregonlive.com Electric vehicle owners don't buy gas. States look for other ways to pay for roads and bridges. - AP Oregon, nine other states hit 2013 goal of getting 3.3 million electric vehicles on roads by 2025 - Oregon Capital Chronicle Portland councilors discuss safety of storing oil in an industrial hub sitting on a quake zone - OPB Oregon fire officials say PacifiCorp didn't cause Santiam Fire, contradicting federal reports, jury decision - OPB Oregon farmers say they're losing land to luxury homes and $800-a-night B & Bs. Hotly debated bills aim to fix that - The Oregonian Hundreds support pausing Oregon's investment in private fossil fuel holdings but Treasury opposed - Oregon Capital Chronicle Oregon lawmakers propose wildfire funding solutions bill - OPB Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Governance , Natural Resources , and Social Policy report sections.

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/ Join / Member Handbook / Member Handbook This resource will acquaint new and existing members with League principles and processes so you can take full advantage of the opportunities of membership. Contents are linked below. MISSION STATEMENT HISTORY NONPARTISANSHIP VOTING MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS CONVENTIONS AND COUNCILS FINANCE VOTER EDUCATION ACTION COMMUNITY INFORMATION PROGRAM PUBLICATIONS LEAGUE LANGUAGE INDEX Membership Organization Principles and Action Program Finance MISSION STATEMENT The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. HISTO RY Carrie Chapman Catt and others organized the League of Women Voters of the United States in 1920. The League of Women Voters of Oregon was also founded in 1920. The League’s first goal was to teach women how to exercise their new right to vote; the scope was soon enlarged to include service to all citizens. Political action based on knowledge gained from study became the cornerstone of the League’s diverse agenda. NONPARTISANSHIP The League never supports or opposes any political party or candidate for elective office. Because of scrupulous adherence to this nonpartisan political policy, the League takes action only in the public interest and only on issues on which members have reached agreement after conducting studies. However, as individuals, League members are encouraged to join fully in the political process. VOTING MEMBERSHIP Membership in the League of Women Voters is open to people of all genders, age 16 and up. The League of Women Voters works on local, state and national levels. At all levels, members have a voice in what will be studied, what action will be taken, how League money will be spent, and who League leaders will be. The League is a grassroots organization, and members are dedicated to local Leagues as the foundation for local, state and national impact. The League of Women Voters Education Fund, created to strengthen League activities in education and voter service, functions under the auspices of the League of Women Voters, but legally exists as a discrete organization. Contributions to the Education Fund can be considered tax‐deductible. The Education Fund never advocates and never lobbies. MEETINGS Each local League determines its own schedule and meets typically nine times a year. A meeting for all members is usually called a General Meeting. The membership may divide into smaller groups, called units, which meet for discussion. Units are effective for different interest groups or when members are scattered over a large geographic area. Members meet to study and to discuss issues such as voting rights, land use, taxes, water resources, human needs, international trade and issues of local concern. All League meetings are open to the public. Each local League holds an Annual Meeting to elect officers, set local dues, and adopt local programs, bylaws and budget. All members can and should attend the Annual Meeting. CONVENTIONS AND COUNCILS The national Convention—for the League of Women Voters of the United States—is held biennially in even‐numbered years, with Washington D.C. the location every other national Convention. Delegates are elected by local Leagues in numbers proportionate to their membership. Any voting member of the League is eligible to serve as a Convention delegate. Observers and guests may attend but not vote. Delegates debate and vote on program, budget, financial support, and bylaws. They elect officers for the next biennium. The national Council is held in odd‐numbered years. Voting members include two delegates from each state plus the national Board of Directors. The League of Women Voters of Oregon holds its Convention in odd‐numbered years and Council in even‐numbered years, using similar rules. FINANCE League is a nonprofit organization that must have adequate financing to operate and to achieve its goals. Local Leagues adopt budgets to support local, state and national activities. Financial support comes from members, non‐members and the community at large. Dues are a major income factor in local League budgets. Each local League decides the amount of dues and the method for collecting them. Dues can be paid on the membership anniversary or at the beginning of the fiscal year. A large portion of the dues, called Per Member Payment or PMP, supports state and national League mission. The League conducts fundraising campaigns at every level to augment income from dues. Dues are only tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law for League nonprofit status determined by the IRS. VOTER EDUCATION The League of Women Voters of Oregon qualifies as a 501(c)(3) organization under the Internal Revenue Code and may accept tax‐deductible contributions. In part, these funds are used for Voter Service activities and balanced, impartial information on governmental issues, study guides, surveys, research projects and litigation in the public interest. The League of Women Voters believes in representative government and in the individual liberties established in the Constitution of the United States. The League of Women Voters believes that efficient and economical government requires competent personnel, the clear assignment of responsibility, adequate financing and coordination among the different agencies and levels of government. The League of Women Voters believes government should be responsive to the will of the people in the following ways. Government should: ● maintain an equitable and flexible system of taxation; ● promote the conservation and development of natural resources in the public interest; ● share in the solution of economic and social problems which affect the general welfare; ● promote a sound economy; ● adopt domestic policies that facilitate the solution of international problems. The League encourages citizens to register, vote, and take part in government and politics. League members register voters, sponsor candidates and issue forums or debates, and provide information about voting. The LWVOR Voters’ Guide is an important resource for state elections. It provides objective, balanced election information and does not state League positions. The Voters’ Guide is available in many formats including easy‐to‐read, Spanish, Internet, large‐print and audio. We also coordinate a statewide mock election for K‐ 12 schools to help students learn the importance of participating in democracy. Rights of US Residents The League of Women Voters believes that: ● every citizen should be protected in the right to vote; ● every person should have access to free public education which provides equal opportunity for all; ● no person or group should suffer legal, economic or administrative discrimination. The League of Women Voters believes that democratic government depends upon the informed and active participation of its citizens and requires that governmental bodies protect the citizen’s right to know by giving adequate notice of the proposed actions, holding open meetings and making public records accessible. World Citizenship The League of Women Voters believes that cooperation with other nations is essential in the search for solutions to world problems, and that the development of international organizations and international law is imperative in the promotion of world peace. ACTION After reaching an agreement and announcing a position, local, state, or national Leagues take action by: ● working with other organizations (coalitions); ● speaking out through letter‐writing and e‐mail campaigns and through visits to legislators and public officials (based on our positions, we support or oppose legislation, ballot measures, etc.); ● testifying at legislative and administrative hearings; ● monitoring elections and other government activities; ● litigating to help clarify laws in the public interest. The League sends observers to meetings of local, regional, state and national government bodies. Observers do not speak for the League but attend meetings to listen, to learn, and to make factual reports. COMMUNITY INFORMATION Educating Oregonians about government and relevant state and local issues is a major League activity. Through community handbooks, political directories, and factual studies of issues, the League provides unbiased information necessary for an informed electorate. Community organizations often call upon the League for speakers on selected topics about government. PROGRAM Annual Program Planning League program at every level consists of those issues members choose for concentrated study and action. At each year’s program planning meeting, members discuss ideas for local and state or national program topics or studies. Deciding What to Study Proposals are submitted to the appropriate Board of Directors. The Board then considers the proposals, formulates a recommended program, and presents it to the membership at the Annual Meeting of the local League or to the delegates at the state or national Convention. Not‐recommended items can also be considered at each level. Such issues must fall within League principles and must be ones on which government action can be taken. Final decisions on state and national programs are made by a vote of the delegates to the respective Convention. The Study Process Once a study has been adopted, the Board appoints a chairperson of the “resource” or study committee and other members are solicited to serve on the committee. The resource committee gathers information on the study item, analyzes information, clarifies issues, and identifies problems. The committee presents all sides of the issue to members. The study may include tours, guest speakers, interviews and other activities. When the study has been completed, a report is published. Formulating a League Position Before the League can act, members must agree in broad terms on various aspects of the issue. To formulate a position, or statement of action, the League takes consensus. Consensus, or agreement, is reached through group discussion. Mem‐ bers come to an overall “sense of the group” as expressed through the exchange of ideas and opinions. It is from this agreement that the League formulates a position statement for action. League positions can also be reached through concurrence, or agreeing with a proposed statement. League members or Boards can concur with recommendations or a statement from a task force, a resource committee, a unit group, or any League Board. PUBLICATIONS League publications are important tools for carrying out our purpose. They are researched, written and distributed by members at every level. The League provides its materials free of charge to members, and in most cases, to the public. Aside from program study reports and Voters’ Guides mentioned earlier, other publications include member newsletters published locally, nationally, and at the state level (usually titled The Voter, although some local Leagues have their own titles), the Legislative Report (a statewide e‐ newsletter published during legislative sessions), and the National League’s email member newsletters. Other publications include annual reports, study report summaries, presentations, websites, and more. In order to accommodate a diversity of needs, items are published in multiple formats, including audio, and online. LEAGUE LANGUAGE INDEX Arranged alphabetically by topic Membership Voting Members US citizens at least 16 years old who have paid dues or who are Life Members. Members At State Members who do not reside within the geographic area of a local League, and choose to pay League dues for membership at the state level. Household Membership Two or more members at the same address; one person pays full dues and each additional person pays half the amount. Life Members Those who have belonged to League for 50 or more years and no longer pay dues. Associate Members Members under 16 or non-citizens who have paid dues. Organization Board Administrative body consisting of officers plus elected and appointed directors. Education Fund A separate organization established by the League to accept tax-deductible contributions, the funds of which can be used only for educational or Voter Service activities, such as a League study or Voters’ Guide. Nonpartisan Describes the League’s policy of not supporting or opposing political parties or candidates. Portfolio The specific program or administrative responsibility of a Board member, such as international relations, land use or public relations. Many League Boards are moving away from the portfolio system, with Board members assuming responsibilities as necessary. Units Small discussion groups. Not all Leagues use units. They work well in larger Leagues or those spread over a large geographic area. Principles and Action Governance One of the four areas in which the League studies and acts. Governance refers to the workings of the three branches of government, especially state legislatures and Congress, where laws are made. It includes taxation and other financial matters of the state or nation. International Relations The relationship of our country to other nations in trade, peacekeeping, the United Nations, etc. This is the second major area of League concern. Local Item A topic of concern and possible action in the city or county of a local League. Natural Resources A third major area of League interest. It includes air and water quality, land use, energy, transportation, and waste disposal. Social Policy The fourth area of concern to League members. Social policy covers education, health, housing, corrections, issues affecting women and children, human rights and civil liberties. Program Concurrence General agreement of League members to a statement of position written by the Board or other group at any level of League. Concurrence is often used to update an existing position. Consensus General agreement of League members following thorough study and discussion. League positions are based on member consensus. Observers League members who attend and monitor meetings of government councils, boards and commissions. Position A statement of beliefs of League members on a particular issue, reached by consensus or concurrence of members after thorough study and discussion. The position is adopted by the appropriate board, according to the level at which the study was done (local, state, or national). Action, pro or con, is carried out on the basis of positions from any level of League. Study The process of researching and analyzing an issue from all sides. Finance PMP Per Member Payment—monetary support for the state and national Leagues as decided by Convention delegates. mission history nonpartisan votingmembers meetings conventioncouncil finance votereducation action communityinfo program publications leaguelingo memberhip organization action program finance2

Cybersecurity In Oregon We are working to defend democracy from escalating cyber-attacks and disinformation. Policy debates are determining the future of our democracy, the internet, and privacy. See our successful legislative advocacy for the Oregon Cybersecurity Center of Excellence and emergency preparedness to protect critical infrastructures, including elections—the cornerstone of democracy. We are working to improve individuals’ cyber hygiene. LWVOR PRIVACY & CYBERSECURITY STUDY: Read our 2020 study for an overview, analysis and comprehensive references to contemporary technology, global policy development, the history of privacy, and our key findings. LWVOR Privacy and Cybersecurity POSITIONS were adopted in January 2020, in LWVOR Issues for Action, on p. 16 . U.S. state and national policymakers have joined the global debate over digital protection of personal information, mined for multi-billion dollar advertising revenues. Experts now characterize media manipulation as ‘information disorder.' The impact of artificial intelligence on MDM, mis-, dis, and mal- information deserves intense scrutiny going forward. Questions? Please email lwvor@lwvor.org . Many bills passed in final 2023 legislative session days after the 43-day Senate walkout. See our Sine Die Legislative Report for links to our testimony, including references to our work over several sessions and future ongoing effort; all reflect privacy and cybersecurity. Elections SCR 1 : Condemning Election violence. SB 166 : Election Worker Protections. HB 3073 : Candidate and Incumbent Data Privacy Protection. HB 2107 : Automatic Voter Registration expansion. HB 2585 : Oppose ending “Motor Voter” voter registration. HB 5035 : Software, Risk-Limiting Audits and Election Security in the SoS’s Budget. Cybersecurity HB 2049 : Establish the Cybersecurity Center of Excellence. HB 2490 : Defend our cybersecurity plans from Public Disclosure. HB 2806 : update cybersecurity and privacy statute for critical infrastructures, etc. Privacy SB 619 : Protect Consumers’ Personal Data. HB 2052 : Data Broker Registry, First in the Nation. SB 5512 : the Judicial Department budget, for Citizen Participation and Access. HB 3201 : Broadband Assistance. Public Records HB 3111 : State Employees, Volunteers, and Retirees Information Privacy SB 510 : Public Records Advisory Budget. HB 5032 : Public Records Advocate funding. Questions? Please email lwvor@lwvor.org .

Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 4/28 Climate Emergency Team Coordinator: Claudia Keith Efficient and Resilient Buildings: Bill Glassmire Environmental Justice: Nancy Rosenberger Environmental Rights Amendment: Claudia Keith Natural Climate Solution - Forestry: Josie Koehne Community Resilince & Emergency Management: Rebecca Gladstone Transportation: Claudia Keith Joint Ways and Means - Budgets, Lawsuits, Green/Public Banking, Divestment/ESG: Claudia Keith Find additional Climate Change Advocacy volunteers in Natural Resources ! Widget Didn’t Load Check your internet and refresh this page. If that doesn’t work, contact us.

Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 5/5 Climate Emergency Team Coordinator: Claudia Keith Efficient and Resilient Buildings: Bill Glassmire Environmental Justice: Nancy Rosenberger Environmental Rights Amendment: Claudia Keith Natural Climate Solution - Forestry: Josie Koehne Community Resilince & Emergency Management: Rebecca Gladstone Transportation: Claudia Keith Joint Ways and Means - Budgets, Lawsuits, Green/Public Banking, Divestment/ESG: Claudia Keith Find additional Climate Change Advocacy volunteers in Natural Resources Please see Climate Emergency Overview here. Jump to a topic: Federal National Science Policy Oregon Legislative Environmental Caucus Update Other Caucus Priority Bills Advanced Clean Trucks Testimony Environmental Justice Bills Other Climate Priorities with League Testimony or public Endorsement and Still Alive Environmental Rights Constitutional Amendment Climate Treasury Investment Bills Natural and Working Lands Other Climate Bills Priority Bills That Died In Policy Committee Highlights of House and Senate Policy Committee Chamber Votes Climate Lawsuits/Our Children’s Trust While the primary focus of the LWVOR Action Committee is on Legislation in Oregon, what is happening at the national level is likely to affect budgeting and other decisions in our state. These climate/energy related Trump admin policy and budget executive orders and congressional caucus requests if implemented would drastically affect : global efforts , UN COP efforts and all fifty states including Oregon’s (climate related legislation, state agencies and community climate action plans / state statutes / outcomes. Federal May 2, 2025 : What Trump's budget cuts could mean for the environment and climate change | AP News May 2, 2025: Trump budget proposes slashes to renewable energy, farms, EPA | Reuters May 2, 2025: 38 Republicans call for ‘full repeal’ of Democrats ’ energy tax credits | TheHill Apr 29, 2025: US dismisses all authors of N ational Climate Assessment , | Reuters May 2, 2025: Trump, GOP confront state climate plans on two fronts | Axios May 1, 2025 Justice Department sues Hawaii, Michigan, Vermont and New York over state climate actions - OPB Trump administration, NOAA minimized climate findings of record CO2 growth - CNN At Bonneville, DOGE cuts are having a ‘compounding effect’ on staffing the grid - Latitude Media National Science Policy A number of federal government science policy and budget decisions are and will continue to affect Oregon’s Climate / Carbon Policy Programs. See this resource for UpToDate changes: National Science policy this week : April 28, 2025 - American Institute of Physics AIP.ORG (FYI / Newsletter is an authoritative source for science policy news and analysis trusted by policymakers and scientists nationwide.) Oregon Apr 29 2025: “Oregon Climate Action Commission (was OGWC) , press release: Environmental Quality Commission approves delay to Clean Fuels Program CPP deadlines . Related Greenhouse Gas Reporting and Climate Protection Program extensions, The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality ODEQ has confirmed that the 2024 annual report deadline for the state's Clean Fuels Program will be delayed until May 30 due to a cyberattack which resulted in an extended outage of the Oregon Fuels Reporting System.” May 1, 2025; Climate advocates push for passage of Energy Affordability and Resilience legislative package – OPB “A coalition of more than 50 climate, environmental and energy affordability groups (including LWVOR) is asking Oregon legislators to pass a handful of bills that aim to lower energy costs and continue funding state programs that provide affordable access to energy efficient heating and cooling systems. “The Energy Affordability and Resilience legislative package is a compilation of seven bills that seeks to increase accountability, affordability and transparency from utilities. The bills seek to create more transparency about how rate payer’s funds are spent, revamp when rate increases take effect and prohibit utilities from using ratepayer funding for certain activities like marketing or political activity. They’ve met with a mix of pushback and support from utility companies. “The package also focuses on keeping afloat energy efficiency state programs that have run out of state funding due to their popularity. ‘The goal is twofold — lower energy bills in the short term while increasing energy efficiency in homes in the long term,’ nonprofit advocacy group Climate Solutions’ Oregon Buildings Policy Manager Claire Prihoda said. “ ‘It’s an opportunity for the state to take seriously the concerns that Oregonians are raising about cost of living, the cost of energy and the real need, as we’re facing climate disasters, climate change impacts in our communities, to help folks in their homes and in their communities be resilient to climate harms,’ she said. “Over the past five years, most Oregonians have seen their energy bills climb by more than 50%. According to Oregon Citizens’ Utility Board, a utility watchdog group, in 2024 nearly 70,000 households were disconnected by for-profit utilities for nonpayment. This year, NW Natural is asking for a 7% increase . Since 2021, its customers’ rate has increased 40%. “‘Folks are struggling under the weight of these rising costs, especially when they’re added to other rising costs across our economy,’ Prihoda said.’They’re also struggling to adjust to harsh extremes in weather and disasters that are being driven by climate change.’ “The bills in the Energy Affordability and Resilience legislative package are: House Bill 3179, the FAIR Energy Act, which moves when rates are increased until after winter, require more disclosure about how ratepayer money is spent, and would require state regulators and utilities to consider how customers are affected when raising rates. Senate Bill 688, Performances Based Ratemaking, updates how rates are set, and tells state regulators to create incentives for utilities to focus on energy efficiency and reliability. House Bill 3546, the POWER Act , would create a new customer category for large industrial users like data centers, so they can be charged for the amount of power they use. Senate Bill 88, Get the Junk Out of Rates , would require utilities to justify their spending, and prohibit them from using ratepayer money for marketing, political and other purposes. Instead, those expenses would have to be paid from the share of rates that companies can otherwise use for profits. House Bill 3081, One Stop Shop 2.0, would expand efforts to create a streamlined page or direct assistance program to help Oregonians know what energy efficiency incentives they qualify for. House Bill 3792, Oregon Energy Assistance Program, would double the amount ratepayers are charged to help low-income customers avoid losing power for nonpayment, a cost of an additional 60 cents per month. House Bill 3170, Community Resilience Hub, would allocate $10 million to the Oregon Department of Human Services to provide grants to create safe spaces for residents during an extreme weather event. The coalition backing this legislation is also asking for additional funding for two state programs*.” | OPB. (* Reinvesting the same amount as last biennium in two program Rental Home Heat Pump Program (ODOE), $30m, and Community Heat Pump Deployment Program (ODOE), $15m) Legislative Environmental Caucus Update (It is unclear to the League if any of the OCN suggested Climate friendly Transportation topics will be included. Legislature leadership may be considering a minimized stripped-down version as a negotiated compromise with the minority party. ) Environmental Caucus Transportation Package Proposal This year, the Oregon Legislature will be considering a transportation package that will provide ongoing funding for the Oregon Department of Transportation. (ODOT). Emissions from transportation make up over one-third of Oregon's total emissions . This session provides an opportunity for the Legislature to increase access to multi-modal transportation and expand options for all Oregonians to get around without a car. The Environmental Caucus is championing a package that prioritizes transit, safety, and climate accountability. Transit services are facing potential service cuts without increased funding. Nearly one third of Oregonians don’t drive , and a majority of Oregonians said they would take transit if it were added or improved in the area where they live. Increased transit improves our transportation system for everyone. It allows for more independence for older Oregonians, reduces road congestion for all users, and improves public health outcomes. The Environmental Caucus is requesting an increase in funding for public transit that will maintain current services levels and increase access to transit statewide. Funding for safety programs like Safe Routes to School, Great Streets, the jurisdictional transfer program, and Community Paths regularly face demand up to 2-5 times more than the funds that are available. These programs improve safety on Oregon's roads for all types of users, but especially for pedestrians, bikes, micro-mobility, and public transit users. The Environmental Caucus is requesting at least $400 million dedicated to these existing safety programs. Climate accountability for ODOT projects must be a consideration for any new projects ODOT undertakes. Similar to what states like Colorado and Minnesota have done, the Environmental Caucus is supporting a policy that requires ODOT to model expected changes to greenhouse gas emissions and vehicle miles traveled for each new project. Any project that increases either of those must mitigate them with alternative transportation or other buildouts. This policy benefits Oregonians by curbing spending on needless expansions and providing the public with information on project impacts. Other Caucus Priority Bills SB 726 requires landfill operators to use advanced monitoring of methane and report their results to DEQ. (refer to NR LR) Advanced Clean Trucks Testimony The Department of Environmental Quality is holding another public hearing on the state's adoption of Advanced Clean Trucks rules. Written comment will be accepted through Wednesday, May 7. For some background on the proposed policy, check out this OPB article from earlier this month. Additional Environmental Justice Bills HB2548 : establishes an agriculture workforce labor standards board, League Testimony . Work Session was held 4/9 passed 4/3, with no amendments, no recommendation and referred to House Rules. It is unclear why this bill is inactive. Other Climate Priorities with League Testimony or public Endorsement and Still Alive By Claudia Keith Critical Energy Infrastructure (CEI) Emergency Management Package Update HB 215 1: Testimony ; appears dead HB 2152 : Testimony ; work session held 4/8 , passed, moved to Joint Ways and Means (JWM) -2 amendments , Staff Measure Summary (SMS). $1M+ fiscal HB 2949 : T estimony ; work session held 4/8 , passed to JWM w -5 amendment new SMS .fiscal is not available, will be completed if the bill gets a hearing in JWM NR SC. HB 3450 A Testimony , work session held, 4/8 passed adopted amendment -1 . fiscal >1M$. referred to JWM 4/11 See CEI Hub Seismic Risk Analysis (The study, Impacts of Fuel Releases from the CEI Hub, is intended to characterize and quantify the anticipated damages from the CEI Hub in the event of the Cascadia Subduction Zone (CSZ) Earthquake.) See Climate Emergency April 28: CEI emergency management package update. The Bigger Picture: ASCE's ( American Society of Civil Engineers , founded in 1852), Oregon C- grade Infrastructure Report Card . Environmental Rights Constitutional Amendment At this point in the session, it is unclear if SJR 28 has enough support to move out of Sen Rules. SJR 28 proposed -1 amendment , Environmental Rights Constitutional amendment (ERA) S enate Joint Resolution - with referral to the 2026 ballot, public hearing was 3/26 . The League provided support with comments testimony . The bill is in Senate Rules , so the Legislative first chamber deadlines are not applicable. A Work Session is not yet scheduled. The -1 a mendment is a partial rewrite and may address the League’s concerns. Climate Treasury Investment Bills SB 681 : May be still active: Treasury: Fossil Fuel investment moratorium, in Sen F&R, PH 3/19. testimony. Sen Golden. HB 2200 -1 , work session was 4/8, bill was requested by previous Treasury Sec Tobias and supported by Treasurer Steiner, related to ESG investing , identified as the compromise bill. League chose not to comment, could move to the floor, no JWM required. (still in H EMGGV, still awaiting transfer to desk) HB 2966 A: Establishes the State Public Financing / public bank Task Force , Work Session 3/6/2025 passed to Joint Ways and Means (JWM), fiscal: $1.3M , League Testimony , Rep Gamba, Senator,Golden, Frederick, Rep Andersen, Evans . Historically, since 2009 Public banking policy topic has been included in many Leg sessions, (go here and then use Control F to search for ‘bank’. ) 22 bills mentioning Public and Bank have died in committee over the past 16 years. Natural and Working Lands HB 3489 Timber Severance Tax. House Committee on Revenue. League Testimony for original bill and for -1 Amendment . HB 5039 financial administration of the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board; JWM NR SC, League testimony HB 3103A – work session was 3/31. Moved to JWM, Overweight Timber Harvest , , League Testimony , new adopted -5 amendment . Other Climate Bills HB 2566A : Stand-alone Energy resilience Projects , Work Session was 3/20, moved to JWM, Rep Gamba was the only nay. At the request of Governor Tina Kotek (H CEE), DOE presentation HB 3365 A: climate change instruction /curriculum in public schools, 4/21 moved to Sen Ed, 4/17 passed House 32/23, work session was 4/9, moved to floor with adopted amendment -4 . House Cm Educ, PH was 3/12, League Testimony , NO Fiscal noted , Chief Sponsors: Rep Fragala, Rep McDonald , SB 688 A: -5 , Public Utility Commission performance-based regulation of electric utilities, PH 3/12,& 3/19, work session was 3/24, updated $974K fiscal , moved to JWM , League testimony , Sen. Golden, Sen. Pham, SB 827A : Solar and Storage Rebate , SEE Work session 2/17, Gov. Kotek & DOE, Senate voted 21-7, moves to House 3/4 first reading. referred to H CEE 3/10, PH 4/22 , work session 5/1. HB 3546A , -3 the POWER Act , in Sen E&E , House vote was 4/21. The bill requires the Public Utility Commission (PUC) to create a new rate class for the largest energy users in the state. (data centers and other high-volume users). These regulations would only apply to customers in the for-profit utility's service areas of PGE, Pacific Power, and Idaho Power. NO Fiscal, on its way to the floor. The League has approved being listed on a coalition sign on advocacy letter . HB 3189 Oregon lawmakers introduce legislation to rein in utility bills | KPTV , Citizens Utility Board CUB presentation here . SB 1143A : -3 , moved to JWM, with bipartisan vote, PH was 3/19, Work session was 4/7 SEE, PUC established a pilot program that allows each natural gas Co to develop a utility-scale thermal energy network (TEN) pilot project to provide heating and cooling services to customers. Senator Lieber, Sollman, Representative Levy B, Senator Smith DB, Representative Andersen, Marsh. Example: Introduction to the MIT Thermal Energy Networks (MITTEN) Plan for Rapid and Cost-Effective Campus Decarbonization. HB 3609 work session 4/8, moved to JWM. The measure requires electric companies to develop and file with the Oregon Public Utility Commission a distributed power plant program for the procurement of grid services from customers of the electric company who enroll in the program. H CEE, PH 3/11 HB 3653 in Sen E&E, PH 4/28, House vote 51 - 9. Allows authorized state agencies to enter into energy performance contracts without requiring a competitive procurement if the authorized state agency follows rules that the Attorney General adopts, negotiates a performance guarantee, and enters into the contract with a qualified energy service company that the ODOE prequalifies and approves. Highlights of House and Senate Policy Committee and Chamber Votes Senate E&E moves wind facility siting bill. The committee voted unanimously to move HB 3874-1 to the Senate floor with a do pass recommendation. It would increase the threshold for siting and approval of a wind energy facility at the county level from 50 MW to 100 MW of average electric generating capacity, before the facility must obtain a site certificate from EFSC. Either the county or the developer could elect to defer regulatory authority to EFSC. The committee amendment would state that a county seeking to issue a permit for a facility of the specified size must require the applicant to provide a decommissioning plan to restore the site to a useful, nonhazardous condition. The plan would have to include bonding or other security as financial assurance. By a vote of 26-2 (Linthicum, Robinson), the Senate passed HB 2567 B , modifying the Heat Pump Deployment Program's eligibility criteria, funding distribution, and rebate structures. It would change “EJ” community to “disadvantaged” community; remove the 15% cap on administrative and marketing expenses and allow ODOE to set the cap by rule; provide for an additional incentive of up to $1,000 for contractors who install rental heat pumps in rural or frontier communities, limited to 5% of available funds; and extend the sunset date to 2032. It would provide no additional funds for the rebate program. The Senate amendment to the House engrossed bill (passed unanimously in March) states that if additional funds become available, ODOE may award additional grant moneys to an eligible entity using an existing performance agreement. PUC would have to require investor-owned utilities to enter into a 10-year contract with those users to pay a minimum amount or percentage for the term of the contract, which could include a charge for excess demand. Rates for this customer class would have to be proportional to the costs of serving them, including for transmission, distribution, and capacity. IOUs would have to mitigate the risks to other customer classes of paying for the utility’s increased load requirements. The bill would apply only to large users that apply for service on or after the effective date of the act, or to existing users that make significant investments or incur costs after the effective date that could result in increased costs or risks to the IOU's other retail electricity consumers. April 22 Senate By a vote of 20-9, the Senate passed SB 685 A , a bill of support on the OCN hot list. It would require a natural gas utility to provide notice to affected customers and the PUC if the utility plans to increase the amount of hydrogen that is blended with natural gas so that the ratio of H2 to natural gas exceeds 2.5%. At least 60 days before beginning to blend H2, the utility would have to notify each affected customer and file notice with PUC explaining the reason for the increased amount of H2. The utility would have to maintain information about the blending program on its website and enable customers to communicate with the utility about it. The Senate engrossed bill is scaled back from the introduced bill, which would have prohibited a utility from developing or carrying out a project involving H2 production or use without first obtaining PUC approval. Climate Lawsuits/Our Children’s Trust Here is one example of how to track ODEQ Climate Protection Program cases. Basically, there are a number of active federal lawsuits , Climate Litigation Updates (April 10, 2025) Another source: Columbia University Law - Sabin Climate DB lists 85 lawsuits , (active and dismissed) mentioning Oregon. There are no recent press releases from Our Children’s Trust . Oregon Treasury: Oregon Divest/ Environmental, Social, and Governance Updates 2025 Climate Risk Review: No Place to Hide - May 2025 Published by Divest Oregon: Executive Summary and Praise for Report (see SB 681) Addressing the Risk of Climate Change: A Comparison of US Pension Funds' Net Zero Plans – Jan 2025 VOLUNTEERS NEEDED : What is your passion related to Climate Emergency ? You can help. V olunteers are needed. The short legislative session begins in January of 2026. Many State Agency Boards and Commissions meet regularly year-round and need monitoring. If any area of climate or natural resources is of interest to you, please contact Peggy Lynch, Natural Resources Coordinator, or Claudia Keith Climate Emergency at peggylynchor@gmail.com Or climatepolicy@lwvor.org . Training will be offered. Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Governance , Revenue , Natural Resources , and Social Policy report section

Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 2/27 Climate Emergency Team Coordinator: Claudia Keith Efficient and Resilient Buildings: Bill Glassmire Environmental Justice: Nancy Rosenberger Environmental Rights Amendment: Claudia Keith Natural Climate Solution - Forestry: Josie Koehne Community Resilince & Emergency Management: Rebecca Gladstone Transportation: Claudia Keith Joint Ways and Means - Budgets, Lawsuits, Green/Public Banking, Divestment/ESG: Claudia Keith Find additional Climate Change Advocacy volunteers in Natural Resources Carbon Investments Clean Energy Carbon Investments By Anne Nesse Informative hearings were held concerning our State Treasury, and a proposed plan to decrease carbon-intensive investments in favor of a cleaner energy economy. On Thursday, 2/16, LWVOR submitted written testimony on HB 2601 . I delayed posting this, as our virtual testimony was delayed, due to the number of persons testifying, and then delayed due to the winter storms. The committee chair has promised to hear all previously registered virtual testimony. A copy of our written testimony is linked here . Rep. Pham, a Chief Sponsor of the Bill, presented a convincing case for support, recorded here . Her testimony included graphs on the increased performance of non-fossil fuel related stocks, creating increased returns for our State Treasury, and increased PERS benefits. Rep. Pham ended with the statement that current fossil free investments are showing returns on investment 5X greater than more carbon intensive investments. Rep. Golden, and Rep. Gamba testified in support, as well as a coalition of representatives from the organizing group, Divest Oregon, which includes the OEA and 100 other state groups. Only a few testifiers were not in support, or suggested amendments. This bill also brought support from the former New York Controller, Tom Sazillo, testifying on how well New York State was proceeding in its transition towards a fossil free economy, within its investment portfolio. Clean Energy By Kathy Moyd HB 3196 -1 a uthorizes the Environmental Quality Commission to establish by rule a fee to be paid by community climate investment entities. The funds come from the purchase of Community Climate Investments by the covered fuel suppliers. It establishes a Community Climate Investment Oversight Account. The League provided written and verbal Testimony .

Back to All Legislative Reports Natural Resources Legislative Report - Week of 2/17 Natural Resources Team Coordinator: Peggy Lynch Agriculture/Goal 3 Land Use: Sandra U. Bishop 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: Lucie La Bonte Water: Peggy Lynch Wildfire: Carolyn Mayers Ways and Means Natural Resource Budgets/Revenue: Peggy Lynch Jump to a topic: Air Quality Agriculture Bottle Bills Budgets/Revenue Climate Coastal Dept. of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Dept. Of State Lands (DSL) Elliott State Research Forest (ESRF) Emergency Services Forestry (ODF) Governance Land Use & Housing Natural Resources Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) State Land Board Water Weather Wetlands Wildfire AIR QUALITY Bills we are watching: SB 726 : Requires the owner or operator of a municipal solid waste landfill to conduct surface emissions monitoring and report data as specified in the Act. LWVOR to support. HB 3244 : Replaces the requirement that an owner or operator of a municipal solid waste incinerator conduct continuous monitoring or sampling of specified air contaminants with a requirement that the monitoring or sampling be conducted annually. LWVOR would oppose. The bill relates to the Reworld facility out of Keizer and League members have testified of their concerns in past years. AGRICULTURE By Sandra Bishop Chair Jeff Golden announced four specific Senate bills that will be considered by the committee: SB 78 – Replacement dwelling bill SB 77 – Home occupation reform bill SB 73 – Spot zoning reform SB 79 – Prohibits certain dwellings on resource lands LWVOR will watch and may support with our strong positions on protection of Oregon’s valuable agricultural lands. Also, we are watching HB 3158 relating to photovoltaic solar power generation facilities on lands zoned for exclusive farm use. Allows certain photovoltaic solar power generation facilities on lands zoned for exclusive farm use to operate alongside farm or allowed nonfarm uses on a tract. LWVOR is watching this one before taking a position. BOTTLE BILLS By Sandra Bishop So far this session six bills have been introduced that would make changes to the Oregon beverage container return system; the iconic Oregon bottle bill that was passed in 1971. The League has been a consistent supporter of this program. SB 992 calls for an Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) study on how to modernize the Oregon bottle bill system. A hearing is scheduled on Feb 17th in the Senate Committee On Energy and Environment . The emergence of this committee bill may be an indication that legislators do not expect to pass any major changes this session to the current system for collecting, accounting for, and recycling beverage containers in Oregon. Requiring a study that is not due to be reported to the Legislature until late in 2026 is kicking the can down the road (pun intended). There are major opportunities and challenges with the current bottle bill system and recycling in the state. Distributors, who benefit most from the current beverage container collection system, may be supporting such a study to ensure no substantive changes will be made to Oregon’s bottle bill for at least another three or four years. SB 963 would require beverage container redemption centers in cities with a population of more than 10,000. HB 2921 would change the criteria for location of redemption centers. SB 869 would allow restricting the hours during which retailers and other dealers are required to take back returned beverage containers. HB 3433 would add wine bottles to the deposit return system. SB 329 is intended to increase the use of reusable beverage containers. BUDGETS/REVENUE By Peggy Lynch Following are the budget bills we are watching in Natural Resources: Dept. of Agriculture: SB 5502 tentative 3rd week of March Dept. of Agriculture Fees: SB 5503 tentative 3rd week of March Columbia River Gorge Commission: SB 5508 DEQ: SB 5520 . Governor’s budget DEQ Fact Sheet Public hearing tentative set for mid-March Oregon Dept. of Energy: SB 5518 info hearing 2/10, Meeting Materials , public hearing 2/11 Oregon Dept. of Energy Fees: SB 5519 info hearing 2/10, public hearing 2/11 Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife: HB 5009 , tentative public hearings Mar. 31 & Apr. 1-2 Oregon Dept. of Forestry: SB 5521 . Tentative public hearings March 10-12; Department of Forestry / Department of the State Fire Marshal - Wildfire Funding Workgroup Work Session/report to be a part of the ODF budget presentation Dept. of Geology and Mineral Industries: HB 5010 Public hearing Feb. 5-6; Meeting materials ; LWVOR testimony ; Aggregate industry testified against the staffing and fee increases. LWVOR points out that KPM #4 , mine inspections, has consistently NOT met the small 20% target so, if staffing is needed to meet that target AND fees increased to pay for them, we will continue to support Dept. of Land Conservation and Development: SB 5528 ; Governor’s budget; DLCD Fact Sheet ; Public hearing Feb. 3-4; LCDC 1/24 presentation ; Meeting Materials ; LWVOR testimony Land Use Board of Appeals: SB 5529 Oregon State Marine Board: HB 5021 ; Public hearing Feb. 17 Oregon State Parks and Recreation Dept.: HB 5026 ; Public hearing tentative set for March 8 Dept. of State Lands: SB 5539 Water Resources Dept.: SB 5543 Governor’s budget WRD Fact Shee t ; Here is a summary of the Governor’s budget. Governor's Budget and Agency Request Budget documents are available online here . Public hearing Feb. 18-20 Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board: HB 5039 . Public hearing Feb. 25-26 Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board 6-Year Limitation: HB 5040 (Limits expenditures of lottery funds from the Watershed Conservation Grant Fund for local grant expenditures by the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board for a six-year period beginning July 1, 2025.) Public hearing Feb. 25-26 Oregon Business Development Dept.: HB 5024 Oregon Dept. of Emergency Management: SB 5517 Office of the Governor: SB 5523 Oregon State Fire Marshal: SB 5538 info hearing 2/19, public hearing 2/20 Dept. of Transportation: SB 5541 Dept. of Administrative Services: HB 5002 Legislative Administration Committee, Legislative Assembly, Legislative Counsel Committee, Legislative Fiscal Officer, Legislative Revenue Officer, Commission on Indian Services and Legislative Policy and Research Committee: HB 5016 Lottery Bonds: SB 5531 : an average debt capacity of $564 million in each Biennium Emergency Board: HB 5006 General Obligation Bonds, etc.: SB 5505 : an average debt capacity of $2.22 billion per Biennium Six-Year Limitation/Bonds: SB 5506 (Limits for the six-year period beginning July 1, 2025, expenses from fees, moneys or other revenues, including Miscellaneous Receipts, but excluding lottery funds and federal funds, collected or received by various state agencies for capital construction.) The next Revenue Forecast will be Feb. 26th. The legislature will use that forecast to do a final rebalance of the 2023-25 budget. Then the May 14th forecast will be the basis for the legislature to determine the 2025-27 state budget. Oregon receives substantial funding from the federal government, so the legislature is watching closely as the March 14th deadline for a federal budget to be passed again looms. Congress also needs to address raising the federal debt limit to authorize paying for bills we’ve already incurred. The federal budget is annual and runs Oct. 1-Sept. 30. Currently there is only a federal budget until end of day March 14. CLIMATE By Claudia Keith and Team See the Climate Emergency section of this Legislative Report. T here are overlaps with this Natural Resources Report. We encourage you to read both sections. COASTAL A bill League is following is SB 504 related to shoreline stabilization. Our coastal partners have been working with the sponsor, and we are hoping for a positive amendment to talk about “non-structural nature-based solutions” instead of “bioengineering”. A work session is scheduled for Feb. 18 in the Senate Committee On Natural Resources and Wildfire . We now have bill numbers for kelp and eel grass conservation (HB 3580) and protection of Rocky Habitat (HB 3587) —both bills the League will support. We asked for funding for a staffer in the Dept. of Land Development and Conservation budget to continue to address rocky habitat, an element of the Territorial Sea Plan which the League has supported. The Oregon Coastal Management Program (OCMP) is currently developing its 2026-2030 Program Enhancement Assessment and Strategy ( Link to draft 2026-2030 Program Enhancement Assessment and Strategy ). A Draft Assessment and Strategy has been published, and the public was invited to provide feedback. The draft 2026-2030 Program Enhancement Assessment and Strategy can be found on their Public Comment webpage . UPDATE : The program received updated guidance from its federal funders – the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on February 10. As a result, OCMP needs to revise the draft developed between October 2024 and January 2025. See the announcement on Offshore Wind Energy Roundtable Feb. 20-21 in Lincoln City or you can watch on Zoom. DEPT. OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (DEQ) By Peggy Lynch The League supports SB 830 , a bill that modifies provisions of the on-site septic system loan program to allow for grants. It also allows for the program to consider mobile home parks in need of septic upgrades. A work session is scheduled for Feb. 18 in the Senate Committee On Natural Resources and Wildfire . HB 2947 had a public hearing in the House Committee On Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water on Feb. 10th related to treated sewage being used on farms. OP B provided great coverage of the concerns related to this usage. Here is the Onsite Wastewater Management Program 2025 Rulemaking webpage . Because of the League’s work on SB 391 (2021) and additional bills in 2023, a League member is serving on the rules advisory committee to address sewer availability and accessory dwelling unit (ADU) issues. There is a meeting set for Feb. 26. You are welcome to s ign up for email updates about this rulemaking via GovDelivery . The League will again serve on an annual rulemaking advisory committee on water quality fee increases. A meeting is scheduled for Feb. 25th. To learn more about this rulemaking and the advisory committee you can view the rulemaking web page at: Water Quality Fees 2025 . DEPT. OF STATE LANDS (DSL) By Peggy Lynch The next State Land Board meeting is a special meeting in March (date still unknown), followed by a regular meeting April 8. See below for more information on the State Land Board. ELLIOTT STATE RESEARCH FOREST (ESRF) You can read the latest about the Elliott State Research Forest in their latest press release. Included is that t he Oregon Department of State Lands (DSL) is seeking comments on administrative rules for the Elliott State Research Forest. The comment period is open from February 3 - March 5 (closes at 5 p.m. Pacific). Then DSL is seeking comments on the proposed Elliott State Research Forest Operations Plan. Click here to view or download the proposed plan, project overview map, and appendices. Click here to view only the proposed plan (PDF) The 45-day comment period is open until 5 p.m. on March 31. Here is a more complete notice of the plan with opportunities for virtual public meetings. At the State Land Board meeting on Feb. 11, Kaitlin Lovell was appointed to the Elliott State Research Forest Board to fill the vacancy created by the loss of Bob Sallinger. EMERGENCY SERVICES By Rebecca Gladstone HB 2581 : The League spoke and filed testimony in support of a statute change, substituting the word “seismic” with “hazards”, to coordinate coverage efforts through the State Resiliency Officer. A work session was held on Feb 6 in H Comm On Emergency Management, Gen Gov, and Veterans where the bill passed unanimously. It now goes to the House Floor for a vote. FORESTRY (ODF) Curry County Commissioners are discussing the possibility of taking over management of federal lands in their jurisdiction See also the Wildfire section of this report below and the separate Climate section. GOVERNANCE Because the League is often engaged in rulemaking, we frequently comment on legislation that would affect changes in Oregon’s current Administrative Rules. We have provided testimony in opposition to HB 2692 , a bill that would create complicated and burdensome processes for agencies to implement legislation with their rulemaking procedures. We were pleased to see an attorney who has represented businesses also provided opposition testimony . The sponsor of the bill shared an instance where OHSA may have exceeded their authority when adopting rules related to farmworker housing. The League believes that agencies should adopt rules to implement legislation but should NOT exceed their authority by creating policies not passed by the legislature. LAND USE & HOUSING By Peggy Lynch On Feb. 10th the House Committee on Housing heard testimony on the following bills that the League believes would allow housing outside of cities and some could violate Goals 3 and 4 of our land use system so we will follow these bills and may provide testimony with our concerns: HB 2316 : Allows designation of Home Start Lands to be used for housing. These lands are currently a variety of state-owned lands scattered around the state. HB 2400 : Allows the owner of property outside an urban growth boundary to site an additional dwelling on the property for occupancy by a relative of the owner. HB 2422 : Requires that lands zoned to allow density of one or fewer dwellings per acre to be considered a rural use. We are pleased to learn that Business Oregon’s Infrastructure bill, HB 3031 , with an amendment to clarify the criteria to be used to access the proposed $100 million fund has been filed. The League looks forward to supporting this important bill. The amendment to the bill will be filed shortly. Other bills we are following: HB 3013 : Details the process by which a permit or zone change that is based on provisions of a comprehensive plan or land use regulation that fail to gain. acknowledgment is voided and any resulting improvements or uses are removed or revoked. LWVOR supports with -1 amendment. HB 3062 : Requires local governments to map sensitive uses as part of a comprehensive plan. LWVOR may support. HB 2138 : Expands allowable middle housing and expands middle housing requirements to include urban unincorporated lands. LWVOR may have comments. Some provisions we support; others not so much. We expect a -1 and then a -2 amendment. Will wait to read them before making a decision on the bill. HB 3145 : Allows the Housing and Community Services Department to use Local Innovation and Fast Track Housing Program Fund monies for factory-built housing. LWVOR should support. HB 2347 : Authorizes the Department of Land Conservation and Development to provide planning assistance for housing production to federally-recognized Indian tribes and makes other technical changes to laws relating to land use planning. A public hearing was held on Feb. 5th in House Housing. A Work Session is scheduled on Feb. 19th where a -2 amendment may be considered. HB 2950 : A bill to update Goal One and Public Participation is being sponsored by Oregon’s American Planning Association. The League is interested in the bill, but has some concerns. We understand there will be an amendment proffered. A public hearing was held Feb. 12th in the House Committee On Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water . Because of the requirement to do rulemaking, the bill, if passing the Committee, will be sent to Ways and Means. SB 462 : Requires the Oregon Business Development Department to establish an education course for land use planners for local governments, special districts and state agencies. LWVOR supports educational efforts but there are other training opportunities so this proposal might be redundant. SB 525 : Amends expedited land division criteria and processes. LWVOR has concerns. May need to oppose. See also the Housing Report in the Social Policy section of this Legislative Report. NATURAL RESOURCES HB 3173 – Establishing OregonFlora in statute passed committee with a -3 amendment on Feb. 12th and it was sent to Ways and Means. OregonFlora provides comprehensive information about ~4,700 vascular plants in Oregon to the public; state and federal agencies; educational institutions; businesses; consumers; and scientists, providing significant economic, social, and educational benefits. HB 3173 info sheet . The bill has widespread support statewide and the League hopes to see this program that supports many natural resource areas funded this session. OREGON WATERSHED ENHANCEMENT BOARD (OWEB) By Lucie La Bonte Our League volunteer interviewed an OWEB staffer related to OWEB’s funding for 2025: The staffer shared that the lottery funding is a stable source of funding for OWEB. In the Governor’s Budget recommendation there is adequate funding for the new programs OWEB has been tasked to take on. This includes enough funding for staffing the new programs. Some funding will be for a limited duration, and some is permanent funding. The Natural Resources Ways and Means Subcommittee will meet to discuss OWEB on February 25th and 26th . On the 25th there will be discussion with staff, on the 26th there will be public comment. OWEB has many partners and much support on both sides of the aisle. The outlook is positive. A recommendation will go to the full Ways and Means Committee after the revenue forecast in May. STATE LAND BOARD (SLB) By Peggy Lynch The Governor, Secretary of State and State Treasurer (SLB members) held a quarterly meeting on Feb. 11th that you can watch on their YouTube channel. Here . They shared a great report on their Real Property Program, sharing the lands owned by the state, their market potential and actions taken to increase revenue. The meeting materials packet is here . The Board adopted rules on Rocky Habitat Designations and approved initiating a potential land sale o f a portion of West Hayden Island to ODOT. The purpose of the proposed sale is to provide mitigation land for the proposed new I-5 bridge project. They appointed Kaitlin Lovell to the Elliott State Research Forest Board to fill the loss of Bob Sallinger to that Board. The Common School Fund passed its audit. The Director reported that the state may have completed negotiations for 80 acres of Bureau of Land Management land near La Pine (and Roslyn Elementary School) to be deeded to the state as part of its still-needed statehood-owed lands. Lastly, Director Walker has announced her retirement plans as of June so an open public recruitment process for a new Dept. of State Lands Director has begun with the intent for the SLB to select their choice at their June 10th meeting. For many this is an obscure agency, but the League believes this agency, with its mission to protect the waters of the state (including our wetlands), to assure stewardship of the Common School Fund, oversight of the South Slough National Estuarine Reserve and now the Elliott State Research Forest are all critical. LWVOR has positions related to support of each of these programs. WATER By Peggy Lynch On Feb. 17 in the House Committee On Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water two bills of interest to the League will have a public hearing: HB 3525 related to tenants’ right to well water testing and HB 3526 that would require well water test reporting in property sales. The League has provided support in past sessions and may do so again this session. Water bills we are following: HB 2988 : Instructs the Water Resources Department to take certain actions related to aquifer recharge and aquifer storage and recovery. A public hearing was held Feb. 12th. HB 3108 : Requires the Water Resources Department to implement additional rules and requirements for the review of limited license applications for an aquifer storage and recovery permit HB 2803 : Increases certain fees related to water. LWVOR will support. Expect amendments. Fees are needed to provide current service level staffing at WRD. The Co-Chairs of the House Committee On Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water are working on a broad package of water-related bills. There is a Water Caucus raising the awareness of the urgency to address Oregon’s water needs. Oregon Water Data Portal debuted Jan. 31st. The multi-agency effort to release a beta version of the pilot portal for the Oregon Water Data Portal project debuted on January 31. The pilot portal is accessible here . Users can provide feedback about the beta version of the pilot portal by completing a survey or emailing OWDP@deq.oregon.gov . League members may want to check the U. S. Drought Monitor , a map that is updated every Thursday. Here is a more complete website about drought in Oregon. We all need to pay attention to the potential for harmful algal blooms. “When in doubt, stay out.” V isit 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. WEATHER Oregon’s state climatologist provides a view of Oregon’s January and our warm, cold and snowfall changes. As Americans depend on weather forecasts of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Oregon has a NOAA facility in Newport, here is a concerning statement as reported by the New York Times Climate: NOAA staff members have been told to search their existing grants for terms that include “climate science,” “climate crisis,” “clean energy,” “environmental quality” and “pollution.” WETLANDS The League testified in opposition to SB 511 , a perennial salmon tax credit bill filed by Sen. David Brock Smith that would create a new program to allow private property owners to get a tax credit for salmon habitat on their property if allowed to be used by a developer to destroy wetlands in another area of Coos and Curry County. This session’s version of the bill narrows the use of the credit from statewide to the two coastal counties. But the concept is complicated and this area of the coast is a critical salmon habitat. A bill of concern to the League related to our removal/fill program has been filed: SB 400 . As proposed, the League will oppose. Another wetlands-related bill we will be watching: HB 2054 . WILDFIRE By Carolyn Mayers It was a slow week for wildfire legislation, but there has been press coverage of issues that the League feels are worth mentioning. This February 10th article from the Oregon Capital Chronicle, describes how Senator Golden, in response to negative feedback from constituents, is proposing revisiting how the recently- released second version of the Oregon Wildfire Hazard (previously “Risk”) Map has areas of hazard broken down. Where the previous map had assigned risk on a broader area scale, an approach that was determined to be a problem, the new map assigned risk at the parcel level. Now, it appears there is some question as to the wisdom of that decision in accomplishing the goals set out for the map. Time will tell if this idea gains momentum. There was news of another $50 million in settlements paid out by Pacificorp for the role of its subsidiary, Pacific Power, in the devastating 2020 wildfires. This February 7th piece from Oregon Public Broadcasting provides details. According to the article, “At least eight more trials are scheduled, and the company could be on the hook for billions in damages.” It also states that rates for Pacific Power customers are up 50% since 2021, a trend that will continue as our wildfire seasons worsen, and mitigation efforts by electric utilities increase their operating costs. Finally, the Wildfire Funding Workgroup established by the Governor at the end of the 2023 short session, to look for a solution to the wildfire funding problem, will be presenting its recommendations to the Legislature soon. No firm date is available as of this writing. This much- anticipated report, the culmination of months of effort by 35 individuals, will set the stage for the Legislature’s work to find a long term, durable and equitable solution to the growing wildfire funding shortfall. Stay tuned! Volunteers Needed What is your passion related to Natural Resources? You can help. Volunteers are needed. The long legislative session begins in January of 2025. Natural Resource Agency Boards and Commissions meet regularly year-round and need monitoring. If any area of natural resources is of interest to you, please contact Peggy Lynch, Natural Resources Coordinator, at peggylynchor@gmail.com . Training will be offered.

Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 4/3 Climate Emergency Team Coordinator: Claudia Keith Efficient and Resilient Buildings: Bill Glassmire Environmental Justice: Nancy Rosenberger Environmental Rights Amendment: Claudia Keith Natural Climate Solution - Forestry: Josie Koehne Community Resilince & Emergency Management: Rebecca Gladstone Transportation: Claudia Keith Joint Ways and Means - Budgets, Lawsuits, Green/Public Banking, Divestment/ESG: Claudia Keith Find additional Climate Change Advocacy volunteers in Natural Resources Jump to a topic: Climate Emergency Priorities Other CE Bills Interstate 5 Bridge Project Oregon Economic Analysis Oregon Treasury Climate Related Lawsuits: Oregon and… Climate Emergency Priorities By Claudia Keith, Climate Emergency Coordinator CE priority bills continue to move forward. All have moved to the floor or to JW&Ms. Find in previous LR reports additional background on each CE priority. 1. SB 530 -7: Natural and Working Lands : On 4/4 the bill moved to JW&Ms with Do pass with -7 amendment, a 3/2 partisan vote. The League continues to be an active coalition member. Fiscal . Staff Measure Summary . 2. Resilient Buildings (RB) policy package: Work sessions were held on 4/4. All four bills moved to JW&Ms, with a partisan vote. The League is an active RB coalition partner. Link to League testimonies: SB 868 , 869 , 870 and 871 . Recently posted to OLIS: SB 868 -3 staff measure summary , Fiscal and Follow-up Questions SB 869 -2 staff measure summary , Fiscal and Follow-up Questions SB 870 -4 Staff measure summary , Fiscal and Follow-up Questions SB 871 -3 staff measure summary , Fiscal and Follow-up Questions *** Mark your Calendars: The Resilient Buildings Coalition is having an in-person LOBBY Day at the Capital April 20. More details via an Alert will be published later this month. Pre-register for this Lobby Day.*** 3. Environmental Justice (EJ) 2023 bills: The League joined the Worker Advocate Coalition on 2/13. SB 593 is one of two bills the League will follow and support. The ‘Right to Refuse dangerous work’ SB 907-6 , League testimony . New on OLIS: SB 907 amendment -6 staff measure summary. 4/4 work session, moved to the floor with do pass with amendments, a unanimous vote. SB907 Coalition Sign-on Letter - LWVOR one of many organizations… 4. Oregon Climate Action Commission (currently Oregon Global Warming Commission): Roadmap , SB 522 -3 staff measure summary , fisca l, 4/4 Work Session moved, with 4/1 vote to JW&Ms. 5. Other Governor Climate / Carbon Policy Topics: See 20-04 Executive Order topics . This area includes other GHG emission mitigation/reductions (DEQ) and new clean renewable energy (DEQ & 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 in both chambers to pass this proposed change. We provided testimony on the Oregon Dept. of Energy (ODOE) budget ( HB 5016 ) and will be adding climate items to (DEQ) HB 5018 League 3/30 testimony . In both cases, our testimony will request additional agency requests not included in the Governor’s Jan budget. Another major issue, the upcoming mid-May Forecast, will likely provide new required budget balancing guidelines. Find in last week’s Social Policy LR a summary of the Governor’s recommended budget for the OHA Public Health Div. It includes Healthcare, Natural Resources, and Climate Emergency related topics. Other CE Bills By Claudia Keith HB 2763 -1: League Testimony . Creates a State public bank Task Force. Like the RB task force, the 23-member Task Force is required to recommend no later than Jan 2024. “ The report must include a recommendation for a governing structure for a public bank.” This policy topic will likely have a bill in the 2024 session -1 staff measure summary . Moved on 3/14 with recommendation to JW&Ms with - 1 amendment. Fiscal HB 3016 -2 community green infrastructure, Rep Pham K, Senator Dembrow, Rep Gamba. Work Session was 3/15 . Fiscal Moved to JW&Ms unanimously. Legislative -2 Staff Measure Summary . House CE&E 4/5/23 By Greg Martin House CE&E heard favorable testimony on April 5 for SB 545 A from Sen. Sollman and environmental witnesses. The Senate engrossed bill greatly simplifies the original, removing the detailed prescription of what the OHA rules must contain. The amended bill simply requires OHA to "adopt rules allowing for a restaurant to allow a consumer to fill a consumer-owned container with food." It also gives OHA an additional 6 months to adopt the rules, by June 30, 2024. ODA was removed from the rulemaking mandate. Senate E&E Work Session 4/4/23 Update: In addition to SB 868-871, Senate E&E reported: SB 542-7 : Right to Repair bill, minimal expenditure impact so presumably sent to the floor. SB 522-3 : Renames OGWC as the Oregon Climate Action Commission; increases membership from 25 to 35 members (13 voting), including an EJ member, a “youth representative” and a member with “significant experience in the fishing industry”; declares Oregon’s “aspiration” to reduce GHG emissions in stages, to achieve 2050 levels that are at least 95% below 1990 levels, and net zero emissions by 2050; requires the commission to track progress toward those goals; and requires DEQ to study and report on opportunities to reduce consumption-based GHG emissions through materials management or other state programs. Fiscal note projects expenditure of $776K in 2023-25 and $632K in 2025-27 for two new full-time ODOE staff and contracting for the required emissions forecast. Presumably referred to Joint W&M. SB 803-6 : Original bill would have established a CI standard for diesel fuel sold in Oregon for use in on-road vehicles, beginning in 2026. Opposition from trucking, ag, construction, et al, pared it back to a “study” bill for DEQ. Fiscal note estimates the study cost at $90K, subsequent referral to JW&Ms. House C E & E 3/29 By Greg Martin HB 3459-5 : Adjustments to the low-income electric bill payment assistance program for PGE and PP customers. Moved to the JW&Ms (6-4 vote). Fiscal note explains: Under current law, HCSD receives $20 million/yr as a base amount for bill payment assistance. In 2021, an additional $10 million was authorized for collection and deposit through December 2023. This bill reduces the supplemental amount collected to $5 million and extends the sunset through December 2025. Projected to require an additional $2.5 million for bill payment assistance in both 23-25 and 25-27. HB 3590 : Requires study of developing fuel pathways for low carbon fuels derived from woody biomass residues from forestry operations. Moved to JW&Ms by unanimous vote. Includes $3 million GF appropriation for HECC in 23-25. HB 3004-3 : Tax credit for “non-emitting” electricity generation or storage facility placed in service post 2024. Moved w/out recommendation, with referral to Tax Exp., then to W&M. Fiscal impact is indeterminate, depending on how many facilities might be eligible. HB 2571-2 : Rebates for electric bicycle purchases. Moved to the floor with prior referral to W&M. It would appropriate $6 million (!) GF for the Electric Bicycle Incentive Fund; fiscal note estimates nearly a million more needed for DEQ program administration. HB 3464-3 , the beaver protection act, had a 4/3 work session, unanimous vote, moved to floor, with do pass. No fiscal impact, and apparently, we'll still be able to call beavers "rodents" even though we can't "take" one unless it "imminently threatens infrastructure." Ducks are still fair game in season. Senate E&E 3/30 SB 582-3 : training and certification requirements for installers of EV charging systems, creating a training grant program under BOLI. Moved to floor w/ do pass recommendation, w/ referral to W&M for further fiscal analysis. SB 123-2 , study of digital labeling to convey info about recyclability claims. Moved to floor as amended w/ do pass recommendation. No fiscal impact. All other bills on the agenda, including SB 488 , 522 , 542 , 803 and 868-871, were carried over to Tuesday 4/4 for one reason or another. House CE&E 4/3 The committee moved these bills among others to the floor with do-pass recommendation and referral to Joint W&M: HB 3378-2 : As amended, sets up a $2 million grant program under ODOE to cover counties’ cost of developing optional energy resilience plans to respond to major grid disruptions. Counties could receive grants of up to $50,000 and could pool their grant money. Fiscal impact statement of $2.1 million GF includes one full-time program analyst to design and oversee the grant program. HB 2714-4 : Establishes a $15 million fund under DEQ to support rebates for purchase or lease of zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. Marsh put on the record, saying she hopes it will become a budget note, that if $15m isn’t available, whatever state funds do come through should go to medium-duty rather than heavy-duty trucks. Fiscal impact statement of $15.3m includes hiring two permanent full-time program analysts. HB 2170-3 : Sen. Brock Smith bill requiring ODOE to study and report to legislature on feasibility of establishing a renewable hydrogen hub at Port of Coos Bay. Rep. Pham opposed the motion. Fiscal note estimates a study cost of $200K. The committee also voted to move HB 2614 w/out recommendation as to passage, for referral to Joint Transp. The introduced bill would require transportation network companies to meet or exceed specified targets for percentage of service miles provided by ZEVs. Chair Marsh moved to punt the bill since the committee had not discussed it or the amendments since the public hearing two months ago. The committee voted to do so though Rep. Osborne objected, saying if we don’t know enough about the topic, why not just kill it. Interstate 5 (I-5) Bridge Project By Liz Stewart and Arlene Sherrett The League has identified the I-5 Bridge Replacement as a key project impacting Oregonians and anyone traveling the I-5 corridor. This extensive, multi-year, project is projected to cost between $5-7.5 billion and take until 2028 to complete. Washington and Oregon state transportation departments are jointly leading the project . • Accountability Dashboard has extensive information and resources on financial and community accomplishments in an easily digested format. • A monthly newsletter is available to track progress on the project. • The Executive Steering Group last met on March 21 and discussed funding in detail. The financial plan report was scheduled to be released at the end of March and updated around major program milestones. • Equity Advisory Group and the Community Advisory Group host regular meetings designed to educate and obtain input from the community on issues related to the IBR. • The Joint Committee on The Interstate 5 Bridge currently has no scheduled meetings. • Several bills related to tolling have been referred to Transportation and are moving forward during this session. • There are no new meetings scheduled on this project until the middle of the month. See the regular meeting calendar link (4th bullet above) for more information. Oregon Economic Analysis By Claudia Keith The Oregon Economic and Revenue Forecast was released Feb 22. The next forecast is due May 17. JW&M recommended budget will use the May forecast to balance the budget. The Oregon Office of Economic Analysis has continued to ignore the recommended SEC Climate Risk disclosure rule. The Need for Climate Risk Disclosures: Emerging trends in ESG governance for 2023 | Harvard. The Need For Climate Risk Disclosures : A Case Study Of Physical Risk Of Two REITS, EQR And ARE | Forbes. See supportive SEC disclosure LWVOR-initiated LWVUS Testimony , June 2022. Oregon Treasury By Claudia Keith It is unclear how Oregon Treasury/Treasurer Tobias Read will assist with addressing the IRA $27B Federal funds, contingent on formation of an Oregon Green Bank. Up To $27B Available for NPO Clean Energy Activities . | TNPT. Oregon State Treasury Completes Nearly $1 Billion Bond Sale , Offers State Residents Opportunity to Invest In Oregon. Oregon bill to divest from coal, oil and gas peters out | National News | kpvi.com The Oregon Investment Council will meet April 19. The Council met March 8; see the meeting packet . ESG is mentioned on page 7. The formal meeting minutes still have not been posted yet. The agenda included ESG Regulatory Update Sarah Bernstein 7 Managing Principal, Meketa and Steven Marlowe, Assistant Attorney General, Oregon Department of Justice. Treasurer Tobias Read Releases First -Ever Oregon Financial Wellness Scorecard | OST. The Feb Pers Statement has yet to be posted. J an 2023 Pers Statement . Moody’s recent Oregon Bond rating rational: ‘Moody's assigns Aa1 to the State of Oregon's GO bonds; outlook stable’. 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 , (March 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 64 lawsuits with OREGON mentioned. Climate lawsuits: Oregon and NW regional News Offshore Wind Energy: Council wants current plans rescinded | News | currypilot.com . Amazon tried to kill emissions bill in Oregon despite climate pledge | The Washington Post. Oregon utility files IRP, inaugural clean energy plan | pv magazine USA. PacifiCorp wants more time to file first Oregon clean energy plan - Portland Business Journal. PGE Files for Largest Bill Increase in 20 Years | CUB Blog 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.

Voter Education forums from the League of Women Voters. / Voter Education Forums / Voter Education Forums General Election 2024 Planning for candidate and ballot measure forums is underway! New events are added here daily. Click on a tab below to view both upcoming events and recorded candidate interviews for your area. Clackamas Coos Co. Corvallis Curry Deschutes Co. Lane Co. Marion/Polk Co. Portland Rogue Valley Umpqua Valley Washington County More at https://my.lwv.org/oregon/coos-county Candidate and Ballot Measure forums More at https://lwvcurry.org/ October 7, 2024 7:00 pm. Port Orford Candidate Forum City Hall Council Chambers 555 West 20th Street, Port Orford October 8, 2024 7:00 pm. Gold Beach Candidate Forum Curry Public Library 94341 3rd St, Gold Beach October 9, 2024 7:00 pm. Brookings Candidate Forum Chetco Community Public Library 405 Alder St., Brookings More at https://leaguewomenvotersmarionpolk.org/ City of Keizer Mayor https://youtu.be/QRo9Wm18eJo Candidate Cathy Clark (NP) https://youtu.be/ueO-tF2_sC8 Candidate Lore Christopher (NP) Keizer City Council Position 1 https://youtu.be/U3QSGOe4d4M Candidate Marlene Parsons (NP) https://youtu.be/bbAamYD2YTg Candidate Tammy Kunz (NP) Marion County Sheriff https://youtu.be/G5mN_JfP1hg Candidate Stacy Rejaian Oregon House District 17 https://youtu.be/yWt70xEBH0k Candidate Ed Diehl (R) Oregon House District 18 https://youtu.be/RXqQeYUpauo Candidate Karyssa Dow (D) Oregon House District 19 https://youtu.be/OcgUNC1nx8s Candidate Tom Andersen (D, I) Oregon House District 20 https://youtu.be/EXvBhucJz8M Candidate Paul Evans (D, I) https://youtu.be/VUqnkFpxSz8 Candidate Kevin Chambers (R) Oregon House District 21 https://youtu.be/0w2lVL-11Uc Candidate Kevin Mannix (R) https://youtu.be/mUxVCrO_YbU Candidate Virginia Stapleton (D, I, WFP) Oregon House District 22 https://youtu.be/8ym9W7fP0oo Candidate Lesly Muñoz (D, WFP) Oregon Senate District 9 https://youtu.be/923ol6L_VC4 Candidate Mike Ashland (D) U.S. Congressional District 6 https://youtu.be/90AX_VycI8Y Candidate Andrea Salinas (D,I) https://youtu.be/TokvdL1rsus Candidate Mike Erickson (R) U.S. Congressional District 5 https://youtu.be/DzKWRFya4FU Candidate Brett Smith (I, WFP) 2024 General Election Oregon Ballot Measures Program https://youtu.be/v4U9v9RMWDo More at https://lwvpdx.org/ Find over 99 Portland area forum recordings on the LWVPDX Youtube Channel . More at: https://www.lwvdeschutes.org/ Watch Deschutes LWV YouTube channel Deschutes' Candidate Forum recordings More at: https://my.lwv.org/oregon/clackamas-county Clackamas County Candidates-Interviews and Forums More at https://lwvuv.org/events/ Roseburg City Council on Wed, Oct. 23 at the Roseburg Public Library Learn more at https://lwv-washco.org/ Video Voters' Guide More at https://lwvrv.org/ October 9, 12:00-2pm Voter registration Rogue Community College October 10, 6:00pm Candidate Forum Oct. 10 – Oregon Senate District 2 Noah Robinson of Cave Junction (incumbent) and Tracy Thompson, moderated by LWVRV Voter Services Chair Kathleen Donham Redwood Grange, #760 1830 Redwood Ave., Grants Pass October 13, 12:30pm Ranked Choice Voting presentation Mountain Avenue Theater, Ashland High School, 201 S Mountain Ave, Ashland, OR 97520 October 13, 2:00pm Ashland City Council Election Forum Mountain Avenue Theater, Ashland High School, 201 S Mountain Ave, Ashland, OR 97520 October 22, 7:00pm Medford Mayor and City Council Forum First Presbyterian Church, Medford More at https://lwvcorvallis.org/ Corvallis City Council Ward 3 Candidate Forum Corvallis City Council Ward 7 Candidate Forum Corvallis City Council Ward 9 Candidate Forum Benton County Commissioner Candidate Forum House District 16 Candidate Forum Corvallis City Council Ward 1 Candidate Forum Corvallis City Council Ward 2 Candidate Forum Corvallis City Council Ward 6 Candidate Forum More at: https://lwvlc.org/voter-information/ Watch Candidate Videos and Ballot Measure Presentations

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