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Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 1/27 Climate Emergency Team Coordinator: Claudia Keith Coordinator: Claudia Keith Efficient and Resilient Buildings: vacant Energy Policy: Claudia Keith Environmental Justice: vacant Natural Climate Solution Forestry: Josie Koehne Agriculture: vacant Community Resilience & Emergency Management: see Governance LR: Rebecca Gladstone Transportation: see NR LR Joint Ways and Means - Budgets, Lawsuits, Green/Public Banking, Divestment/ESG: Claudia Keith Find additional Climate Change Advocacy volunteers in Natural Resources Jump to a topic: Climate Priorities Natural and Working Lands Climate Emergency Legislative Environmental Caucus Climate Priorities There are now over 120 Environmental/Climate Legislative Bills posted or soon to be posted to OLIS in January and Early Feb. Some of these bills are just placeholders. At this point here are a few that have been identified as potential League policy and/or budget Climate priorities: Climate Priorities Public Hearing Posted – League will submit Testimony HB 2966 Establishes the State Public Bank Task Force (see 2023 HB2763 , vetoed by the governor) Representative Gamba, Senator Golden, Frederick, Representative Andersen, Evans 
, Jan 28 1PM, HC CCP, 2023 LWVOR Testimony Other Priorities Update to Greenhouse gas Emission Reduction Goals. Bringing back SB 1559 (2024)

 Natural and Working Lands ( OCAC NWL Report ) (see NWL LR below)
 SB 681 Treasury: Fossil Fuel investment moratorium 
 SB3170 Community Resilience Hubs and Networks 

 HB 2566 Stand-along Energy resilience Projects – Governor Tina Kotek
 SB583 Study/Task Force on public banking/financing ( 2024 HB 4155 )
- Sen Frederick
 SJR 28 Environmental Rights Constitutional Amendment Leg Referral
- Senator Golden, Representative Andersen, Gamba, Senator Manning Jr, Prozanski, Representative Tran 
 SB 682 Climate Super Fund, Sen Golden, Rep Andersen, Gamba, Sen Campos, Pham 
 SB 679 Climate Liability, Sen Golden SB 680 Climate Science / Greenwashing, Sen Golden and Manning SB 688 Public Utility Commission performance-based regulation of electric utilities, Sen Golden, Sen Pham, (Senate Energy and Environment - SEE) SB 827 Solar and Storage Rebate, Gov Kotek & DOE, SEE Carbon sequestration/storage see DOGAMI Agency Budget
(see NR LR) – Geologic Carbon Dioxide Sequestration Interactive Map | U.S. Geological Survey ( usgs.gov ) . Transportation package that prioritizes climate, equity, and wildlife: 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 will create a system that saves money over time and builds a more resilient, equitable, and healthy future for all Oregonians. (see OCN Press Rel ) Energy Affordability and Utility Accountability Package* ( HB 3081 , SB 88 , LC 1547): Oregonians are struggling to keep up with skyrocketing utility bills in the face of ever-worsening climate impacts. HB 3081 would create an active navigator to help Oregonians access energy efficiency incentives all in one place. SB 88 limits the ability of utility companies to charge ratepayers for lobbying, litigation costs, fines, marketing, industry fees, and political spending. SB 553 LC 1547 ensures that large energy users (i.e. data centers) do not unfairly burden Oregon households. (*see OCN Press Rel ) Natural and Working Lands By Josie Koehne On Tuesday, Jan 21, the first meeting of the 2025 session in Senate Natural Resources & Wildfire Committee kicked off with an informational hearing on Farm and Forest Land Loss in Oregon presented by Hilary Foote, Farm/Forest Specialist at Department of Land Conservation and Development. She reported that although our land use laws were successful in preserving 97% of zoned farm and forest land since 1987, the figures do not reflect the many changes on the landscape. Two hundred sixty-seven farms - most of them small - were lost, and over 600,000 acres were lost from production. Between 1984 to 1913, 172,000 acres of forest land and 182,000 acres of agricultural land were lost. There were some conversions to residential areas through the gradual expansion of the Urban Growth Boundary over the years, from farm to Forest land and vice versa, corporate land for energy production including solar, and mining. Some of the land zoned exclusively for farm and forest is being used for non-resource use but is still being protected. As of 1994, 10,200 homes were approved in wildland forest areas representing a 7% decline in forestland; most were one-off exception requests that the counties approved. Jim Johnson from 1000 Friends of Oregon discussed the importance of Oregon’s largely specialty crop production to the state’s economy, roughly $326,039,000, or 19% of the state’s total traded sector exports. One out of eight jobs in Oregon (12%) are agricultural-related. Population pressures on nearby land have jacked up per-acre prices for agricultural land, making it very hard for new farm start-ups and causing farmers to consolidate, buying up neighboring farms that can’t keep up with rising costs. There are loopholes in existing natural resource laws, such as replacement dwellings on land zoned exclusively for forest and farm use; large mansions are replacing small dwellings. Some owners have only a small portion of their land in production, such as keeping a small herd of sheep, or working at home full-time, and yet they still get a farm or forest special assessment. Several bills have been introduced this session to close these loopholes or ensure that new dwellings do not encroach into sensitive areas or areas with high wildfire risk. Look out for SB 73, SB 77, SB 78 among others. Other bills put restrictions on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in wildland urban Interface (WUI). Thursday, Jan 23 was the second meeting for this committee. The first presentation outlined four priority areas for groundwater and water right transfer policy reforms. Current processes are long outdated with a huge backlog of permits needing completion, and are not processed in a timely, consistent or orderly manner across the state. Chandra Ferrari and Geoff Huntington, Governor Kotek’s natural resource policy advisors presented. Next, the former Senator Dembrow and the Chair of the all-volunteer Oregon Climate Action Commission (OCAC) (formerly the Global Warming Commission), Catherine MacDonald, spoke about the intent of the Natural Working Lands Fund. Catherine presented a report on the implementation of the bill which was funded by the omnibus bill HB 3409 in 2023. See our previous testimony here . LWVOR works with the Natural Climate Solutions Coalition (NCS) monitoring the implementation of the Natural Working Lands Fund. The legislature approved $10 million to implement the Climate Change and Carbon Plan (CCCP) which was approved by the Oregon Department of Forestry in 2021. The funds are coordinated and channeled through the Oregon Water Enhancement Board (OWEB) to the other Natural Resource agencies, the Dept of Agriculture, Oregon Fish & Wildlife and the Dept of Forestry (ODF) and are earmarked for grants for climate smart incentives. Each agency reported on their progress to date. Andrea Kreiner, Executive Director of Oregon Association of Conservation Districts ended the day’s session. Local Soil and Water Conservation districts and water boards are responsible for seeing that the grants and incentives provided by the fund are allocated to local natural working landowners and managers for various climate-smart projects and practices. She stressed the importance of the legislature appropriating continuous funds that landowners can plan for and rely upon for their work. See this video for more information. Climate Emergency This week, key state agencies presented invited testimony to the House Climate, Energy & Environment Committee to explain their missions, programs, funding, and upcoming issues facing the legislature. Following are some highlights. Oregon Department of Energy (ODOE) View ODOE slide presentation ODOE by the Numbers This year is ODOE’s 50th anniversary – the agency was created in a time of energy transition not unlike the present. ODOE relishes its role as a “think tank,” publishes an annual recap of energy-related legislation and conducts studies to inform proposed legislation. ODOE’s Biennial Energy Report published in November 2024 presents “ Energy 101 ” reports related to upcoming bills. Some popular grant programs will have no funding going forward in 2025; these include the Solar + Storage Rebate grants, the Energy Efficient Wildfire Rebuilding program, and the Community Heat Pump Deployment program. The governor’s budget proposes to continue the Community Renewable Energy Grant program that, as of December 2024, had reserved or disbursed $41 million and had $23.7 million remaining. ODOE has awarded 94 projects in 28 counties and estimates that more than 20% of grant funds to date are serving Environmental Justice communities. ODOE’s one-stop online resource for the state’s many available incentive programs has gone live and is in beta testing. Federal dollars are a key funding source. ODOE draws down and monitors federal funds that now total $280 million. First-round awards of Grid Resilience grants to electric utilities in March will total $18.9 million to 13 utilities in 17 counties; Home Energy Rebate grants totaling $113 million for high-efficiency home improvements, especially for low-income households, should be available later this year. County resilience planning grants, created by HB 3630, provide up to $50,000 per county to develop those plans— HB 3170 (Marsh) would change some program requirements and appropriate $10 million of the state general fund (GF). The legislature has given ODOE a lot of new assignments in the past few years, bolstered by federal funds. The governor recommends an overall budget of $174.5 million with an operating budget of $60 million, funded by state GF, federal funds, fees from site certificate holders, and the Energy Supplier Assessment (ESA), charged to fuel providers and utilities. In 2024, ODOE assessed $7.9 m illion of ESA charges on $8.5 b illion of gross operating revenues, equating to $1.87 per Oregonian per year. The governor’s budget would raise the ESA by 18%, driven by cost-of-living adjustments for staff and increases in state government service charges that all agencies face, but utility bills won’t necessarily go up that much because rates depend on a multitude of factors. ODOE estimates that most customers’ bills would be about 4 cents higher. Incoming federal funds could displace some state funding and serve to lower the ESA. Rep. Anderson asked about the outlook for future federal funding in light of President Trump’s executive order freezing the disbursement of Inflation Reduction Act and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funds, particularly for EV charging stations. ODOE Director Janine Benner said a large number of signed performance agreements are in place with investments targeted in many states both red and blue, making it difficult for the new administration to claw back that committed money. Benner said ODOE is cautiously optimistic that those investments will go forward as planned. Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) View ODEQ slide presentation ODEQ’s presentation did not address the agency’s budget request; the currently approved budget totals $753 million in all funds, 860 FTEs. Much of ODEQ’s activity is determined by the federal government (delegated by U.S. EPA) but the agency also administers state programs that predate federal environmental law. Federal funding for these activities has been stagnant or declining over the years. DEQ also generates a lot of data for other agencies’ environmental programs. Air quality monitoring is gaining importance due to increasingly severe wildfires and the resulting particulate matter in the air. ODEQ monitors greenhouse gas emissions and has implemented oversight programs that include the Clean Fuels Program and the Climate Protection Program (CPP). ODEQ reran the entire CPP rulemaking in 2024 to reestablish the program’s goals and mandates. New elements include a direct connection between ODEQ and the Oregon Public Utility Commission to mitigate natural gas price increases. Key manufacturing industries are now directly regulated by ODEQ, per their preference, but are exempt from CPP rules for the next 3 years as ODEQ develops rules to regulate the industries according to their carbon intensity. ODEQ has adopted two sets of rules to implement the Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act of 2021. The Producer Responsibility Organization program is expected to go live this year. Oregon Public Utility Commission (OPUC) View OPUC slide presentation OPUC has three full-time commissioners, no more than two of whom may be of the same political party. Chair Megan Decker’s second and final term ends March 31, 2025, so the Senate will need to confirm a new commissioner in February. Gov. Kotek has nominated her natural resources advisor, Karin Power. OPUC determines utility rates, presides over quasi-judicial proceedings, and implements policy. OPUC receives no GF, but is funded by an assessment of 0.45% of utilities’ gross operating revenues. The commission regulates rates of investor-owned electric, natural gas, water, and telecom utilities, considering more than a thousand individual issues per year with a variety of opposing positions. OPUC sets rates to balance the interests of the utilities and their customers. Rates must be just and reasonable but must provide sufficient revenue for operating expenses and the capital costs of the business—otherwise the state may be argued to have taken utility property without compensation. Utilities almost never get as large a rate increase as they request—typically less than half. OPUC staff (142 FTEs) make specific recommendations to commissioners on how to resolve issues and provide expert analysis of utility proposals and rate filings. OPUC evaluates utility filings in three major categories: Rates (general rate cases and annual cost adjustments), planning (utilities’ Integrated Resource Plans, clean energy, wildfire mitigation, and distribution system plans), and programs such as net metering, community solar, EV charging, and demand response. Besides the regulated utilities, participants in OPUC decision-making can include the Citizens’ Utility Board, environmental and community organizations, trade associations, energy developers and others. HB 2475 (2021) expanded OPUC’s ratemaking authority with regard to low-income customers. Groups that represent low-income and environmental justice (EJ) communities can receive intervenor funding assistance of up to $500,000 per year. OPUC’s new online comment portal makes it easier for the public to comment. Staff consolidates public comment into the record of each judicial proceeding. OPUC’s role in climate policy has changed dramatically—the commission is much more focused on this than in the past and has staffed up to address it. Wildfire readiness has become a huge part of utility operations, overseen by OPUC’s Safety Division. Equity and energy burden is a new and important role, legislatively directed. Rep. Osborne asked about the rate process. What’s keep utilities from gaming the system by asking for a lot more than they need? Nolan Moser, OPUC’s executive director, replied: OPUC’s rates team understands which costs are justified and which are not, and can separate the wheat from the chaff in rate filings. Rep. Helm: The House CE&E Committee will be considering some OPUC bills with complex issues, including where the utilities’ clean energy plans stand. The committee needs to dig more deeply into OPUC’s approach before those bills arrive. Rep. Wallan asked what is OPUC doing to ensure grid reliability? Moser said reliability is a core part of OPUC’s mission and a major focus of the Safety Division. Standards are extremely high–utilities are expected to operate all the time in all conditions. Wildfires are happening all over the country and threatening reliability and safety. Costs will go up a lot if we can’t get our hands around this problem. OPUC Commissioner Letha Tawney is well regarded as a regional wildfire expert. Rep. Gamba asked how the utilities are doing toward meeting their HB 2021 clean energy targets. Moser: They are moving forward as best they can but have different constraints. PGE has restraints around ensuring they can procure resources in a cost-effective way. PacifiCorp is a multistate utility pulled in different policy directions—has almost the same size of Oregon’s load compared to Utah, where coal is still being used. OPUC interprets HB 2021 language as creating a role for the commission in ensuring that the utilities review all procurement options to meet legislative intent. OPUC believes it has the authority to require a utility to issue an RFP for renewable resources—PacifiCorp has challenged that position in court. Rep. Marsh: Huge energy load demands are coming our way. Does OPUC have the tools it needs to help utilities manage those loads without a huge rate impact on customers? Moser: OPUC needs to reevaluate that—“We’re at a moment when our previous assumptions need to be completely reimagined.” Legislative Environmental Caucus Climate Priorities Performance Based Regulation for Utilities (SB 688) Transmission package aiding the expedited buildout of the electrical grid and increase efficiencies in existing infrastructure Enabling Changes to Electricity Rates of Large Power User Microgrids (HB 2064, HB 2065, HB 2066) Hydrogen Oversight at the PUC (SB 685) Transportation : The Caucus supports a transportation package that includes increased funding for public transit, Safe Routes to School, an emphasis on sustaining and expanding infrastructure for multimodal transportation, and policies that align with our climate action goals, along with creating a safer transportation network for people and wildlife. Schools : These policies make schools safer and more resilient by leveraging federal funds to improve infrastructure and environmental health. Transitioning to Electric School Buses (HB 2945) Positions at ODE to Support Climate Resilient Schools (HB 2941) Climate Protections and Policies : The climate package includes bills that have broad and long-ranging protections for Oregon’s environment and natural resources. Make Polluters Pay (SB 682) Updating Oregon’s Emissions Reductions Goals (LC 1440) Environmental Rights Amendment (SJR 28) Treasury Divestment from Fossil Fuels (SB 681) Legislative Environmental Caucus Climate Priorities

Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 2/9 Climate Emergency Team Coordinator: Claudia Keith Coordinator: Claudia Keith Efficient and Resilient Buildings: vacant Energy Policy: Claudia Keith Environmental Justice: vacant Natural Climate Solution Forestry: Josie Koehne Agriculture: vacant Community Resilience & Emergency Management: see Governance LR: Rebecca Gladstone Transportation: see NR LR Joint Ways and Means - Budgets, Lawsuits, Green/Public Banking, Divestment/ESG: Claudia Keith Find additional Climate Change Advocacy volunteers in Natural Resources Please see Climate Emergency Overview here. Jump to a topic: Climate Emergency Highlights Climate Priorities Senate Committee on Energy and Environment House Committee on Climate, Energy, and Environment Oregon Treasury Climate Lawsuits/Our Children's Trust Highlights READ Make Polluters Pay Climate Superfund ACTION ALERT An Opportunity to engage in advocacy: please consider the many ways to advocate for Climate Superfund Cost Recovery Program ( SB 1541 ) and Fund for Oregon’s Resilience, Growth, and Energy ( SB 1526 ), both affecting major multiple million dollar new funding mechanisms to address climate change mitigation and or adaptation. Good news: Many Climate Emergency priority bills the league supports are likely to move from the first chamber by Feb 16 deadline, find details below. The deadline to schedule a work session is Monday 2/9. Climate Priority Bills The League may have testimony and/or join coalition letters. Make Polluters Pay (MPP) SB 1541 , SEE PH 2/5 and work session 2/10 , LWVOR submitted testimony – Creates the Climate Superfund Cost Recovery Program to assess financial impacts of greenhouse gas emissions and recover costs from responsible entities. Designates the Department of Land Conservation and Development to lead an interagency team, directs the Department of Environmental Quality to issue cost-recovery notices, and establishes a dedicated account to receive funds. The League has joined the Make Polluters Pay Campaign . MARK your calendars: An Action Alert was issued 2/3 inviting members to contact their legislators, submit testimony, sign a petition, and/or attend a Feb 16th lobby day regarding the Make Polluters Pay bill. This climate legislation is a national effort covered today by the New York Times , reporting that a number of other states are in the process of passing and/or implementing. Fund for Oregon’s Resilience, Growth, and Energy SB 1526 , SEE PH 2/4, possible work session 2/9, league testimony Creates financing tools, including a revolving loan fund, to provide more affordable, accessible long-term financing for clean energy and resilience infrastructure projects in Oregon. This is modeled on a number of other states’ legislation , some as ‘green’ banking non profits. Community-Based Power: Distributed Power Plants SB 1582 , SEE PH 2/9, possible work session 2/11 . Distributed power plants (or DPPs) bring together customer resources like rooftop solar, battery systems and smart thermostats to provide energy when and where it’s needed most. This bill would require electric companies to incorporate DPPs into their resource mix. Nuclear Study Bill HB 4046 . CEE PH 2/10 and Possible work session 2/12. Unlikely to move out of committee . Directs the ODOE State Department of Energy, subject to the availability of funding, to conduct a study on nuclear energy, including advanced nuclear reactors HB 4031 : HCEE PH 2/3 , Work session 2/10. Exempts an energy facility from needing a site certificate from the Energy Facility Siting Council if the energy facility produces power from a renewable energy source, qualifies for certain federal renewable energy tax credits and construction begins on or before December 31, 2028. HB 1597 SEE PH 2/4 , WK possibly 2/11. Makes a power provider disclose the costs to store the waste made from making electric power. SMS Senate Committee on Energy and Environment The committee heard testimony February 4 on 3 of the 5 bills it has been assigned: SB 1525 would e stablish the Blue Economy Task Force to study and report on economic development plans or strategies for the “blue” (coastal) economy and opportunities for the state to nurture sustainable blue economy businesses while preserving and protecting Oregon’s coastal ecosystems. It would authorize the Oregon Ocean Science Trust to create a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) entity to advance the trust’s mission. Chair Sollman testified in favor, as did a trust representative. The trust has distributed $2 million in competitive grant funding for high-impact research projects, but more research is needed. The 501(c)(3) would serve as a dedicated fund-raising arm of the trust—“technically clean, fiscally noncontroversial, and urgently needed.” The task force would be sunsetted on 12/31/2027 . The bill is starred for subsequent referral to Joint W&M. SB 1526 , the FORGE Act, would require the Oregon Department of Energy (ODOE) to apply for grant moneys from the State Agency Program Fund to cover the costs and expenses of carrying out pre-startup activities and forming a nonprofit entity. Chair Sollman supported, saying the bill would create a carefully-phased framework for Oregon to explore this funding model while maintaining fiscal discipline and legislative oversight. Amendments are coming which would add a labor representative to the founding board, confirm that the board would be independent and not overseen by ODOE, massage language on behalf of MUDs and PUDs. The League supported the bill in written testimony . Support also came from OEC, S2 Strategies, Beneficial State Bank, League of Oregon Cities, NW Native Chamber, Renewable Hydrogen Alliance, Nature Conservancy; all stressed benefits for rural and underinvested communities. The BlueGreen Alliance is neutral now but will support with the proposed changes. The Cascade Policy Institute opposed the bill on grounds that it would duplicate private sector initiatives in Oregon. They are also concerned about allowing the board to use OBDD’s bonding authority. SB 1597 would require an electric utility to disclose to its customers the costs of storing the waste produced by an energy facility in generating electricity. Sen. Frederick: Amendments are coming to specify that this bill targets nuclear waste, not renewable energy waste. Oregon voters have said they don’t want to approve another nuclear plant until they know where the waste will go and how much it will cost. Renewable Northwest will support with the promised amendments. House Committee on Climate, Energy and Environment Work sessions scheduled for HB 4029 and HB 4031 were moved to Tuesday 2/10 . Other bills we are following: Possible Work sessions: • HB 4029 - Requires a solar energy contractor or person that installs a solar energy system to have a license appropriate for the scope of work the solar energy contractor or person will perform. (Carried over from 2/5) • HB 4031 - Exempts an energy facility from needing a site certificate from the Energy Facility Siting Council if the energy facility produces power from a renewable energy source, qualifies for certain federal renewable energy tax credits and construction begins on or before December 31, 2028 . (Carried over from 2/5) • HB 4144 - Requires producers of batteries or battery-containing products to join a battery producer responsibility organization and implement a battery producer responsibility program for the collection and recycling of batteries. • HB 4080 - Allows a retail electricity consumer to install and use portable solar photovoltaic energy devices with up to a total maximum generating capacity of 1,200 watts. Public hearings: • HB 4077 - Authorizes a public utility, upon approval by PUC, to issue bonds and securitize debt for costs and expenses incurred or to be incurred by the public utility associated with a self-insurance or captive insurance program. (Carried over from 2/5) • HB 4046 - Directs ODOE, subject to the availability of funding, to conduct a study on nuclear energy, including advanced nuclear reactors. • HB 4030 - Exempts packaging for certain berries and meat, poultry, fish and seafood from producer responsibility requirements for packaging, paper and food serviceware. • HB 4060 - Exempts sales to purchasers with facilities totaling more than one million square feet from a prohibition on sales of certain fluorescent lamps until 1/1/2030 . Oregon Treasury & Oregon Divest New 2025 Treasury : Climate-Positive Investing : Invested for Oregon Report Tracking Net zero climate positive investment strategies . Oregon State Treasury should engage or divest from companies fueling a new era of resource conflicts. (Divest Oregon ORG) Climate Lawsuits/Our Children’s Trust There are a number of active federal lawsuits. Climate Litigation Jan 30 Updates Another source: Columbia University Law - Sabin Climate DB lists 97 lawsuits , (active and dismissed) mentioning Oregon. Other Cornell: NEW REPORT : a bold vision fo r climate jobs In Oregon Oregon Gov. Kotek to create statewide data center advisory committe e - OPB 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 Governance Internships Legislative Report - 3/4 Governance Team Coordinator: Becky Gladstone and Chris Cobey Artificial Intelligence: Lindsey Washburn Campaign Finance Reform: Norman Turrill Conflicts of Interest/Legislative Ethics: Chris Cobey CEI - Critical Energy Infrastructure : Nikki Mandell and Laura Rogers Cybersecurity Privacy, Election Issues, Electronic Portal Advisory Board: Becky Gladstone Election Systems: Barbara Klein Emergency Preparedness: Cate Arnold Immigration, Refugee, and Asylum: Claudia Keith Redistricting: Norman Turrill, Chris Cobey State Audit Working Group: Sheila Golden Voting Rights of Incarcerated People: Marge Easley Jump to a topic: Campaign Finance Other Governance Bills Privacy & AI, Elections, & In Memoriam for Alice Bartelt Campaign Finance By Norman Turrill An amazingly historic thing happened with campaign finance reform as explained here in the Capital Chronicle . The League initially opposed HB 4024 ; see the League’s written testimony . After over a week of private negotiations, a new -5 amendment and then a -8 amendment were posted for the Wednesday 3/6 House Rules work session . The good government groups were able to negotiate some 40 changes to the previously-proposed amendments, enough to make the bill acceptable and to avoid a huge ballot measure fight in the November election. The agreement included IP 9 and IP 42 being withdrawn and HB 4024 not being referred to the ballot. The bill then quickly passed the House floor 52 to 5, a Senate Rules hearing and work session, and the Senate floor 22 to 6 on the last day of the session. Only Gov. Kotek’s signature is now required. We should be clear: Campaign finance reform is not finished in Oregon. There will undoubtedly be adjustments attempted in the 2025 long legislative session. The contributions limits in HB 2024 are way too high, and the disclosure of donors and dark money that pay for advertising, needs more work. The Secretary of State will need funding to implement the bill by its 2027 effective date. And we still need public funding of campaigns as in other states. Other Governance Bills HB 4021 A , which requires the Governor to fill a vacancy in the office of U.S. Senator by appointment within 30 days until a special election can fill the vacancy, passed the House floor 35 to 22. However, it stalled after a 3/5 hearing in Senate Rules and was still in committee on adjournment. HB 4026 Enrolled, was amended in House Rules to retroactively prohibit the use of a referendum on any urban growth boundary expansion. This blocks a referendum in the City of North Plains in Washington County. The LWVOR submitted written testimony opposing the amendment and saying the bill is likely unconstitutional and may invite a lawsuit. The bill passed the House 49 to 5 and then the Senate 25 to 3. See also the Land Use Section of the Natural Resources Legislative Report. HB 4031 Enrolled was amended in House Revenue to protect any local government tax payer information from disclosure. It passed the House 57 to 0 and then the Senate 26 to 3. HB 4032 , which would remove the requirement that the word “incumbent” appear on the ballot with the name of incumbent candidates for the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, Oregon Tax Court, and circuit court, had a public hearing but no further action in House Rules. HB 4117 Enrolled, which authorizes the Oregon Government Ethics Commission to issue advisory opinions on the application of the public meetings law, and which is a correction to a bill passed in 2023 session, passed the House immediately and unanimously. The bill then passed the Senate 30 to 0. SB 1502 Enrolled requires public schools and college boards to live stream their meetings and post the meeting recordings on their websites and social media sites. It allows remote testimony for most school and college board meetings. The bill passed the Senate 29 to 1. The bill then passed the House 55 to 1. SB 1538 A , an election law clean-up bill that makes many changes, was passed by the Senate as amended on 20 to 10 vote. House Rules then amended the bill to allow the Legislature to write the ballot title and explanatory statement for any constitutional amendment referred to the ballot during this session. The House then passed the bill 45 to 6, and the Senate quickly concurred with the House amendment 22 to 7. Privacy & AI, Elections, & In Memoriam for Alice Bartelt By Rebecca Gladstone The 2024 short session adjourned congenially before the final deadline. These bills passed, supported with League testimony: Campaign Finance Reform, HB 4024 , see above. AI, to disclose synthetic media use in campaign SB 1571 A . The Senate concurred with House amendments passing the bill on partisan lines. We look forward to pressing for attention to protect our elections and for other cybersecurity and privacy concerns. The Senate Memorial Commemoration for Alice Bartelt, SCR 203 passed unanimously from the House floor, some excused, and it has been filed with the Secretary of State. RIP Alice. Increase Voters’ Pamphlet languages SB 1533 passed in the House with some excused. Not passing out of committee: Automatic Voter Registration for students SB 1577 -3 due to widely shared concerns for practical implementation, including from the League, despite generally supporting expanding automatic voter registration.

Back to All Legislative Reports Governance Internships Legislative Report - Sine Die 2024 Governance Team Coordinator: Becky Gladstone and Chris Cobey Artificial Intelligence: Lindsey Washburn Campaign Finance Reform: Norman Turrill Conflicts of Interest/Legislative Ethics: Chris Cobey CEI - Critical Energy Infrastructure : Nikki Mandell and Laura Rogers Cybersecurity Privacy, Election Issues, Electronic Portal Advisory Board: Becky Gladstone Election Systems: Barbara Klein Emergency Preparedness: Cate Arnold Immigration, Refugee, and Asylum: Claudia Keith Redistricting: Norman Turrill, Chris Cobey State Audit Working Group: Sheila Golden Voting Rights of Incarcerated People: Marge Easley Jump to a topic: Access Campaign Finance Redistricting Other Governance Bills Privacy & AI, Elections, & In Memoriam for Alice Bartelt Access By Paula Krane Since this was a short session things seemed to move quickly. In the beginning there seemed to be adequate notice on hearings and bills to be heard, changing as the session progressed. This was a more civil session. Members worked together, the public was involved with the process and welcomed to participate. League members had access to their Legislators as well as other Legislators. Because of Covid and the building being closed for updates, virtual access has been expanded; it has become very easy to observe and be part of the Legislative process remotely. There were very few access concerns this session: some members had problems with the pertaining clauses not telling them what the subject of the bill was (misinformation). In the past we put a lot of time and effort into making sure we all have access to the legislative political process and we continue to benefit from those efforts. Campaign Finance An amazingly historic thing happened with campaign finance reform as explained here in the Capital Chronicle. The League initially opposed HB 4024 ; see the League’s written testimony . After over a week of private negotiations, a new -5 amendment and then an -8 amendment were posted for the Wednesday 3/6 House Rules work session . The good government groups were able to negotiate some 20 major changes to the proposed bill, enough to make the bill acceptable and to avoid a huge ballot measure fight at the November election. The bill has something to please and displease everyone, reflected in the final floor discourse and votes. The bill represents decades of grassroots work. The agreement included IP 9 (Honest Elections, including a LWVOR chief petitioner) and IP 42 (unions) being withdrawn and HB 4024 not being referred to the ballot. The bill quickly passed the House floor, a Senate Rules hearing and work session, and the Senate floor on the last day of the session after a suspension of Senate rules. Gov. Kotek signed the bill March 20. We should be clear: Campaign finance reform is not finished in Oregon. The next E-board will be asked to allocate funding for the Secretary of State to draft administrative rules for the bill’s 2027 effective date. There will undoubtedly be adjustments attempted in the 2025 long legislative session. Rep. Fahey is forming a work group to consider changes. The contributions limits in HB 2024 are way too high, and the disclosure of donors and dark money that pay for advertising, needs more work. And we still need public funding of campaigns as in other states. Redistricting People Not Politicians announced that it is pausing the initiative signature campaign for IP 14 and will refile an initiative for the 2028 general election. The campaign did not have enough money to be successful by the July 5 deadline. However, the Oregon Court of Appeals decided March 27 in favor of PNP that IP 14 does not include two subjects; this will be important for future versions of the initiative; the case may yet be appealed to the Oregon Supreme Court. Other Governance Bills HB 4026 Enrolled, was passed to retroactively prohibit the use of a referendum on any urban growth boundary expansion. This was intended to block a referendum in the City of North Plains in Washington County. The LWVOR submitted written testimony opposing the bill and saying it is likely unconstitutional and may invite a lawsuit. However, a Washington County judge granted a temporary restraining order that allows the North Plains referendum, Measure 34-327, to remain on the ballot this May. Whether the referendum is defeated or not, then the whole matter will end up the courts again. HB 4031 Enrolled was amended in House Revenue to protect any local government tax payer information from disclosure. HB 4117 Enrolled, which authorizes the Oregon Government Ethics Commission to issue advisory opinions on the application of the public meetings law, and which is a correction to a bill passed in 2023 session, passed both legislative chambers immediately and unanimously. SB 1502 Enrolled requires public schools and college boards to live stream their meetings and post the meeting recordings on their websites and social media sites. It allows remote testimony for most school and college board meetings. SB 1538 Enrolled is an election law clean-up bill that makes many changes. SB 1577 A , automatic voter registration for higher ed students through the Dept of Revenue, was amended to require the Legislative Policy and Research Director to study its viability, benefits and challenges. It was still in Joint W&Ms as the session ended. Privacy & AI, Elections, & In Memoriam for Alice Bartelt SB 1571 Enrolled The Senate concurred with House amendments passing the bill on partisan lines. We look forward to pressing for attention to protect our elections and for other cybersecurity and privacy concerns. SB 1533 Enrolled increases the number of languages into which the secretary must translate voters' pamphlets. The Senate Memorial Commemoration for Alice Bartelt, SCR 203 Enrolled , passed unanimously in both houses and has been filed with the Secretary of State. RIP, Alice.

LILY YAO (she/her) LILY YAO (she/her) Youth Council President Lily attends South Eugene High School where she is actively involved in student government, competes in Speech and Debate, and plays varsity tennis and club Ultimate. As an environmental advocate, Lily has served as a regional leader intern with Our Future, a project of Partners for Sustainable Schools that has aimed to create a statewide, student-led climate justice network since 2022. At the same time, in roles as a City of Eugene Sustainability Commissioner and member of the Eugene Youth Advisory Council, she seeks to educate herself and others about the climate while becoming more civically aware. Similarly, as a founding member of the Lane County delegation of the Oregon YMCA Youth and Government program, she has had the unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience advocating for policy solutions and participating in government simulations of the legislative process, which has further sparked her interest in civics education. Alongside her commitment to environmental issues, Lily is passionate about disaster preparedness. In her role as a member of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 10 Youth Preparedness Council, she has educated youth in her local community and collaborated with the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) to promote disaster resilience. Her experience includes presenting at the 2024 Oregon Prepared: Emergency Preparedness Workshop, hosted by OEM, and as a panelist with Resource Tap Disaster Support Services at the 2024 Public Interest Environmental Law Conference, the largest and oldest conference of its kind. In addition to her advocacy work, Lily believes in promoting cultural diversity and understanding. In addition to English, she speaks both Spanish and Mandarin Chinese and is involved in various efforts to foster inclusivity and celebrate cultural heritage. This has included acting as a Mainstage Production Assistant for the Oregon Asian Celebration. Her commitment to bridging cultural gaps, as well as her passion for S.T.E.M., are demonstrated by her selection as a 2024 TechGirls Finalist. This year, Lily is taking on the role of Co-Voter Strategist with the League of Women Voters of Oregon Youth Council. She is dedicated to empowering young voters and increasing voter turnout among young people. In serving on the Youth Council, Lily hopes to learn more about the civic process, reach out to her community, and advocate for voters across Oregon. youthpresident@lwvor.org

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. Privacy and Cybersecurity 2020 About the Study 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. 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. 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 . Privacy and Cybersecurity Position- Adopted: January 2021; Amended January 2021 Cybersecurity is the prevention of damage to, protection of, and restoration of computers, electronic communications systems, electronic communications services, wire communication, and electronic communication, including information contained therein, to ensure its availability, integrity, authentication, confidentiality, and nonrepudiation. This position statement addresses Elections, Information Security, Personal Information Protection, and Electronic Business and Social Media. Elections Security The election process is the foundation of our representative form of government. Election integrity, accuracy, transparency, and trustworthiness require vigilance to ensure security protections. Security requirements include and are not limited to: verifiable ballots; ballots that can be recounted and audited; up-to-date hardware and software, supported by vendors, tested, and secure; protected voter registration databases; election staff/volunteers with cybersecurity expertise; cyber-damage contingency plans; risk-limiting audits; attention to disinformation and misleading ads. Protect voters’ ability to exercise an informed opinion on electoral matters. Explore limiting the unfettered electronic circulation and amplification of election misinformation (e.g., targeted disinformation campaigns, manipulated media, anonymous disinformation, and algorithmic and robotic disinformation campaigns). Information Security Government, individuals, and organizations (including the private sector and critical infrastructure), all require strong cybersecurity protections and effective deterrents to assure national security, economic and social stability, and personal information integrity. Create consistent information privacy laws and regulations across all organizations (government, private, for-profit, and non-profit) that eliminate gaps, inconsistencies, and overlaps. Regulate all technology-enabled organizations (e.g., internet platforms, online intermediaries, business-to-consumer platforms), not shifting sectors, so that organizations are subject to a uniform set of laws and regulations. Regulate all categories of information in the same way, regardless of the type of organization or sector that collects that information. Apply a baseline set of regulations to all types of information, regardless of the type of organization or sector collecting that information. Apply regulatory requirements to organizations according to their size and complexity, the nature of data covered, and the risk posed by exposing private information. All information (including third-party data transfers) needs sufficiently flexible protections to address emerging technologies and scientific evidence while serving the common good by balancing the demands of stakeholders and vested interests. The ubiquitous information and communication technologies (ICT) of today’s pervasive digital services, platforms, and marketplaces require a global governance perspective to address their societal and economic impacts: Harmonize laws and regulations across jurisdictions to protect individuals and assure the trustworthy flow of information across all boundaries—government, organizations, industry sectors, states, and countries. Aim to develop flexible regulatory structures that can quickly adapt to social and scientific realities and technical and economic policy challenges. Use forward-looking, collaborative mechanisms such as experimentation and learning, test-and-evolve, and post-doc effectiveness reviews. Incentivize specific outcomes that facilitate anticipating and adapting to rapid changes. State laws that become inconsistent with future comprehensive federal privacy standards may be preempted, while more stringent laws may remain. At a minimum, citizens' information protection rights should be comparable to those of citizens around the world—both current and future protections that may be established. Current European Council personal information protections include the ability to: be informed of what personal information is held and why access information held by an entity request updating or correcting of information request manual processing in lieu of automated or algorithmic processing request transfer of information to another entity withdraw prior consent to process data or object to specific situation consent request deleting personal information. Personal Information Protection Uniform privacy rights need to protect personal privacy and prevent known harm. Establish uniform information protections for personal and behavioral data that can be linked to an individual or devices. Prevent harmful uses of personal information by all information processors who collect, store, analyze, transfer, sell, etc. Expand the legal definition of “harm” to include physical, monetary, reputational, intangible, future, or other substantial injuries and to provide individuals the right to legal remedy. Assure that personal information collection, use, transfer, and disclosure for economic or societal purposes is consistent with the purpose for which individuals provide their data, and does not cause them harm. Shift the focus of information protection from individual self-management when submitting data (e.g., opt-in, obscure notice, and choice disclosures) to organizational stewardship in protecting individuals’ personal privacy. Expand personal information privacy definition to address rapidly changing information and communication technologies, accelerated networking between businesses, and automated collection and dissemination of data, which together subvert personally identifiable information, de-identification, re-identification, and data anonymization. Electronic Business and Social Media: Cybersecurity Responsibilities Organizations conducting electronic business and social media commercializing personal information both bear the responsibility for protecting information and must be liable for failure to protect individuals from harm. All organizations--including third-party receivers: Must protect individuals’ transferred information across multiple organizations to ensure end-use accountability. Have a duty to safely collect, use, and share personal, sensitive information. Should use comprehensive information risk assessments, take proactive measures to implement information security measures, and be held accountable for fulfilling these risk management obligations. Are held accountable for misuse of personal information by strengthening both state and federal laws, rule-making, and enforcement powers. We support the right of free speech for all. The digital tools of information and communication technology (such as algorithms and artificial intelligence) can selectively distort or amplify user-generated content. The resulting disinformation, digital manipulation, false claims, and/or privacy violations may endanger society or harm others. Compel private internet communication platforms (applications, social media, websites, etc.) to be responsible for moderating content. Define liability for damages and provide for enforcement for failure to moderate content. Privacy and Cybersecurity Today LWVOR Privacy & Cybersecurity Study , PDF, 61 pages 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. Previous Next

Jim joined the League of Women Voters of Oregon as Voter Newsletter Editor in 2023. Jim Buck Voter Newsletter Editor Jim joined the League of Women Voters of Oregon as Voter Newsletter Editor in 2023.

Back to All Legislative Reports Governance Internships Legislative Report - Week of 5/1 Governance Team Coordinator: Becky Gladstone and Chris Cobey Artificial Intelligence: Lindsey Washburn Campaign Finance Reform: Norman Turrill Conflicts of Interest/Legislative Ethics: Chris Cobey CEI - Critical Energy Infrastructure : Nikki Mandell and Laura Rogers Cybersecurity Privacy, Election Issues, Electronic Portal Advisory Board: Becky Gladstone Election Systems: Barbara Klein Emergency Preparedness: Cate Arnold Immigration, Refugee, and Asylum: Claudia Keith Redistricting: Norman Turrill, Chris Cobey State Audit Working Group: Sheila Golden Voting Rights of Incarcerated People: Marge Easley Jump to a topic: Walkouts, Resignation, and Bills Waiting Rights of Incarcerated People Walkouts, Resignation, and Bills Waiting By Rebecca Gladstone Republican Senators walked out (press ), citing bill summary readability; see the Flesch Kincaid Calculator . The walkout prevents a required quorum and delays progress for divisive gun safety and healthcare bills. It could provide litigation grounds against Measure 113 ( press ), a constitutional amendment voters passed last fall by a wide majority to prevent legislative work halts from walkouts. League election bill positions are not affected by the SoS resignation. Here’s a status update on bills we’re watching: HB 5032 Enrolled : We supported this Public Records Advocate funding bill ( our testimony ). Work sessions scheduled: HB 2490 work session was rescheduled for May 9 in Senate committee for this cybersecurity vulnerability bill. The League urges for maximum protection of public health, safety, and the environment. Defense of our critical infrastructures is at stake ( our testimony ). Still awaiting work sessions: The May 5 agenda posting deadline for second chamber committee work sessions does not apply to bills followed here, since most are in Rules and Joint committees. SB 11 : This access and transparency bill has strong bipartisan support, requiring virtual public state meetings to record and promptly publicize recordings. We will look for data retention rules. SB 417 : This public records bill is important to the League for timely access to candidate filing information for Vote411.org and for concerns of excessive elections records requests ( press ). We have attended the Task Force since March 7, now focused on agencies bearing the burden of proof for defending staff review assignments, for choosing the most cost-effective staff records review before public release. The bill aims for the lowest records delivery cost by the lowest salaried employee. High-level legal review is necessary for 90% of requested records. Staff could redact basic data like SSNs and birth dates. But experienced attorneys could quickly include those in a single review with complex issues that could help avert much more expensive appellate litigation referrals. See our testimony , predating this work. SB 166 : We hope the scheduling delay, referred to House Rules March 7, implies amending to address privacy and harassment concerns. See our testimony and previous extensive reports. SB 167 : See League testimony in support of this elections bill to replace candidate filing software, add efficiency improvements, address some privacy and cybersecurity issues, with efficiency tweaks. SJM 6 : This DC statehood action has not moved since the April 13 unanimous referral from the Senate floor on April 13. Taxation without representation is a fundamental democratic value we support. SB 614 : We’re watching this police body cam, personal data retention / disclosure bill, after passing the Senate, 18 to 10, on not entirely partisan votes. See details, April 17 LR. Awaiting further scheduling (mostly W&Ms): HB 2049 A : This cybersecurity omnibus bill was referred to W&Ms March 3 with unanimous do pass recommendation. The League strongly supports in previous reports ( our testimony ). HB 2052 relates to SB 619 and was referred JW&Ms on Feb 13. We support the AG’s data broker registry bill ( League testimony ). HB 2806 A : This bill passed unanimously May 2 with a Do Pass to update statute for open meetings, public safety and cybersecurity. It awaits transfer to the Senate President’s desk. See our testimony . HB 3127 A : An April 27 work session for this “TikTok bill” awaits transfer to the Senate President’s desk, with a Do Pass recommendation. SB 619 : Sent to W&Ms April 12, with Do pass with amendments by prior reference. LWVOR strongly supports this AG’s consumer privacy bill ( our testimony ), now with a coalition letter. SB 510 : This SB 417 companion funding bill passed unanimously to W&Ms on May 1 without recommendation, to improve efficiency, cost estimates and budgeting, and sustainable funding for the PRAC. See our testimony in support . SB 1073 A : Referred to W&Ms April 10, to establish a state Chief Privacy Officer (CPO). See our supportive testimony including related bills and the hearing video , details in previous reports. Rights of Incarcerated People By Marge Easley A House floor vote on SB 529 was scheduled to take place on May 4. The bill, a priority bill of the Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC), acknowledges that addiction is a chronic disease affecting many incarcerated individuals and creates more comprehensive drug treatment programs in correctional institutions. Another DOC priority this session is a close examination of the use of segregated housing units in Oregon’s correctional facilities. There will be a Senate Judiciary work session on May 8 for HB 2345 A , which mandates the establishment of a publicly accessible data dashboard detailing race, age, misconduct status, duration in the unit, level of misconduct causing a return to the unit, and the allowable amount of time outside of a cell. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED. Worthy causes go unaddressed for lack of League volunteers. If you see a need and can offer your expertise, please contact our staff at lwvor@lwvor.org .

Back to All Legislative Reports Governance Internships Legislative Report - Week of 3/27 Governance Team Coordinator: Becky Gladstone and Chris Cobey Artificial Intelligence: Lindsey Washburn Campaign Finance Reform: Norman Turrill Conflicts of Interest/Legislative Ethics: Chris Cobey CEI - Critical Energy Infrastructure : Nikki Mandell and Laura Rogers Cybersecurity Privacy, Election Issues, Electronic Portal Advisory Board: Becky Gladstone Election Systems: Barbara Klein Emergency Preparedness: Cate Arnold Immigration, Refugee, and Asylum: Claudia Keith Redistricting: Norman Turrill, Chris Cobey State Audit Working Group: Sheila Golden Voting Rights of Incarcerated People: Marge Easley Jump to a topic: Election Methods Cybersecurity and Public Records Rights of Incarcerated People Government Ethics Governance By Norman Turrill, Governance Coordinator, and Team Election Methods By Barbara Klein The League was able to give verbal testimony (at minute 33) for HB 2004, regarding Ranked Choice Voting. We had previously submitted written testimony , but covered different points in each testimony. Due to so much interest in these bills, two hearings were held on different dates; but still not everyone was able to testify. We were unable to present our planned verbal testimony for HB 3509 , but you can see our written report here (this submission was similar to the verbal testimony for the other bill). The RCV coalition continues to meet with individual legislators to promote HB 2004; the LWVOR has been invited to these. Advocates of another election reform, STAR (Score then Automatic Runoff) consistently testified in opposition against HB 2004. They suggest that a study group be established while they seek signatures for the ballot initiative promoting STAR statewide. Cybersecurity and Public Records By Rebecca Gladstone These bills are moving across the spectrum from fully enrolled (SCR 1), to not yet assigned a bill number. Some are in W&Ms, one is in an amendment work group, others are progressing to second chamber and are being heard in committee. Cybersecurity remains a focus. We appreciated getting a thank you letter for supporting the OJD budget bill SB 5512 ( our testimony ) from the Chief Justice and State Court Administrator. A JW&Ms General Governance subcommittee forwarded these two PRAC (Public Records Advocacy Council and Advocate) bills with a do pass recommendation to full W&Ms, in a March 28 work session. SB 510 would fund SB 417, to improve efficiency, cost estimates and budgeting, and sustainable funding for the PRAC. See our testimony in support . SB 417 on Public Records Requests. We support this detailed PRAC bill to increase efficiency in processing public records requests, considering fee waivers, defining “media”, waiving records request fees when made in the public interest, and considering malicious intent in placing requests. See our testimony . HB 5032 will fund the PRAC (Public Records Advisory Council) and its Advocate. See League testimony in support, citing League work since 1993 and linking to our public records advocacy in 2017 and 2020. Bills coming up Geospatial Information: We are watching for a geospatial information bill after a JCLIMT informational hearing. We have “a tremendous amount of technical debt”. Oregon needs to update and automate systems built in the 1990’s. The League believes this means a data security vulnerability that must be addressed. Agencies are being good partners, working toward improving, and honest about their capacity to share, with some trepidation. 2021 resources have been applied for data engineers and scientists, so this will be better going forward. The League has participated with the Elections and Geospatial Data group convened by the state Geospatial Data Officer in 2022, the Oregon Tax Districts Workgroup convened by the Dept of Revenue in 2020, and as a guest, to the JCLIMT State CIO Data Sharing Workgroup , convening in 2015, to advocate for our Vote411.org and They Represent You geospatial information needs. HB 3127 A : We are researching this state data security bill, being heard in the second chamber. It relates to protecting agencies from foreign social media access. Moving Forward SB 619 : LWVOR strongly supports this AG’s consumer privacy bill, now with a - 1 amendment . ( our testimony ). A work session scheduled for March 28 in Sen. Judiciary was carried over. HB 2490 progressed with no opposition from the House, to be read in the Senate on March 27. It addresses Oregon’s growing cybersecurity vulnerability, by protecting our defense plans, devices, and systems from public disclosure, also echoing our call to balance public records disclosure transparency and privacy. The League urges for maximum protection of public health, safety, and the environment. Defending our critical infrastructures is at stake ( our testimony ). SCR 1 Enrolled lacks any action in statute and has been filed with the Secretary of State. It calls for election worker support and applause. We urged for a larger perspective protection in statute. See our 2023 testimony for expanding election privacy and harassment protection, citing our League 2022 testimony from HB 4144 Enrolled (2022) . Rights of Incarcerated People By Marge Easley HB 2345-1 , which mandates that reasonable efforts will be made to limit the length of time an incarcerated person can remain in segregated housing (solitary confinement), is scheduled for a work session on April 3. The bill also establishes a committee to study the implementation of this new mandate. Here is League testimony in support of the bill. After passing out of Senate Rules on March 9 with a do pass recommendation, SB 579 A remains in Ways and Means. According to the Fiscal Analysis, the Secretary of State anticipates the fiscal impact of this measure to be $749,007 from the General Fund for two positions (1.00 FTE) and associated costs for the 2025-27 biennium. Government Ethics By Chris Cobey HB 5021 : Joint General Government, work session scheduled 3/29. Limits biennial expenditures from fees, moneys or other revenues, including miscellaneous receipts and reimbursements from federal service agreements, but excluding lottery funds and other federal funds, collected or received by Oregon Government Ethics Commission. SB 168 : Senate Rules passed this bill 3/28 with -1 amendment that would expressly prohibit public employees, while on job during working hours or while otherwise working in official capacity, from promoting or opposing appointment, nomination or election of public officials. SB 207 : Senate floor passed this bill 21 to 8 and it is now in House Rules. This bill was at the request of Oregon Government Ethics Commission and would authorize it to proceed on its own motion to review and investigate, if the commission has reason to believe that a public body conducted meetings in an executive session that were not in compliance with laws authorizing executive sessions. SB 292 A : Senate Rules held a public hearing 3/23 with A2 and A5 amendments on OLIS. This bill would narrow the applicability of the requirement that members of district school boards must file verified statements of economic interest (SEI) to only those members of districts with a specified number of students or districts that are sponsors of virtual public charter schools. The League believes that all public officials should file an SEI and that smaller jurisdictions are where the most conflicts of interest occur, which could be revealed in SEI filings. SB 661 A : Senate Rules adopted a -2 amendment and sent it to the floor with a do pass as amended recommendation. This bill would prohibit a lobbyist from serving as chair of an interim committee, legislative work group or legislative task force. Campaign Finance No bills on campaign finance have yet been scheduled for a hearing. Redistricting There has been no movement on redistricting in the legislature. People Not Politicians has started collecting signatures on IP 19 petitions downloadable from its website. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED. Worthy causes go unaddressed for lack of League volunteers. If you see a Governance legislation need and can offer your expertise, please contact our staff at lwvor@lwvor.org .

Back to All Legislative Reports Governance Internships Legislative Report - Week of 4/3 Governance Team Coordinator: Becky Gladstone and Chris Cobey Artificial Intelligence: Lindsey Washburn Campaign Finance Reform: Norman Turrill Conflicts of Interest/Legislative Ethics: Chris Cobey CEI - Critical Energy Infrastructure : Nikki Mandell and Laura Rogers Cybersecurity Privacy, Election Issues, Electronic Portal Advisory Board: Becky Gladstone Election Systems: Barbara Klein Emergency Preparedness: Cate Arnold Immigration, Refugee, and Asylum: Claudia Keith Redistricting: Norman Turrill, Chris Cobey State Audit Working Group: Sheila Golden Voting Rights of Incarcerated People: Marge Easley Jump to a topic: Rights of Incarcerated People Cybersecurity and Public Records Government Ethics Campaign Finance Redistricting Election Methods Governance By Norman Turrill, Governance Coordinator, and Team Rights of Incarcerated People By Marge Easley Two bills that promote more humane treatment of those in correctional institutions passed out of the House Judiciary on April 4. HB 2890 directs the Department of Corrections (DOC) to ensure all incarcerated people have access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment throughout their term of incarceration. This is in keeping with the directive from HB 2257 (2019) to treat addiction as a chronic disease and provide appropriate treatment. The adopted -1 amendment removed a provision in the original bill that all incarcerated people must have access to personal electronic devices. The bill passed with a do-pass recommendation and a subsequent referral to Ways and Means. HB 2345 passed with amendments with a do-pass recommendation. It directs DOC to share aggregate data on the department’s website about the use of segregated housing in Oregon’s correctional institutions. The goal is to be transparent in fulfilling DOC’s objective of minimizing the use of segregated housing as a disciplinary tool. Budgets, Cybersecurity, DC Statehood & TikTok By Rebecca Gladstone We spoke to the SoS’s budget bill this week. We’re following the progress of numerous cybersecurity and public records bills. The SB 417 Task Force continues to meet, now into next week. We’ve added two bills, planning to speak to a broadly supported “TikTok” bill and a DC statehood resolution. HB 5035 : We support this Secretary of State budget bill ( our testimony ), repeating our calls since 2017 to replace and unify separate outdated OCVR and ORESTAR elections’ software systems, for efficiency. Note SoS Dennis Richardson’s 2018 Newsroom report “ ORESTAR Batch Transactions Processing Error ” and from May 2022, ORESTAR affected by C&E Systems ransomware . It is overtime already. We urged for Risk-Limiting Audit support, with extensive information linked in testimony. The bill presents a conservative pilot program to educate elections officials and the public. We see in these hearings that education is clearly needed. We support the numerous cybersecurity efforts in the bill. We noted omission of voter registration expansion and geospatial districting and urged that these be retained and supported. HB 2490 was quickly referred to Senate Vets, Emergency Management, Federal and World Affairs after no opposition from the House, read in the Senate on March 27. It addresses Oregon’s growing cybersecurity vulnerability, by protecting our defense plans, devices, and systems from public disclosure, also echoing our call to balance public records disclosure transparency and privacy. The League urges for maximum protection of public health, safety, and the environment. Defending our critical infrastructures is at stake ( our testimony ). SJM 6 : Catching up with this, to urge Congress to grant statehood to the District of Columbia, supported by LWV as a national position. We will submit testimony for the next public hearing. Taxation without representation is a fundamental democratic value and we will support this. SJM 6 passed from Senate Veterans, Emergency Management, Federal and World Affairs on firmly partisan lines, with a do adopt recommendation. Sen. Thatcher prefers residents not be taxed and DC not be admitted as a state. Sen. Linthicum referred to Greater Idaho and focused on government problems. Sen. Woods invoked Taxation without Representation; DC residents pay taxes and this resolution lacks teeth but shows we understand and support them. Sen. Manning urged belief that when the DC area was included in the constitution, it omitted many who looked like him. We must correct the ills of the past at some point. This SJM may not pack power but sends a signal that Oregon recognizes and must correct ills of previous laws. He’s hopeful at some point we recognize all citizens. Not long ago we had a segregated military, now more diverse, agile and stronger. To “Greater Idaho”, imagine if every community wanted to pull up stakes. At the end of the Civil War, in 1865, we were looking for a greater, brighter future. This does send a message that Oregon will support. SB 619 : LWVOR strongly supports this AG’s consumer privacy bill, now with a - 1 amendment ( our testimony ). It passed from Senate Judiciary on Apr. 3 with a Do Pass recommendation to W&Ms. HB 3127 A : We will research this “TikTok bill”, prohibiting installing or downloading certain “covered products” onto state information technology assets, and testify in the next public hearing. It passed 52 to 4 from the House floor, not on strictly partisan lines. Note, it does not address personal use. Government Ethics By Chris Cobey HB 5021 : Budget of the Oregon Government Ethics Commission, in Joint General Government, reported out with amendments, returned to full committee; 4/7: Joint W&M work session scheduled. Limits biennial expenditures from fees, moneys or other revenues, including Miscellaneous Receipts and reimbursements from federal service agreements, but excluding lottery funds and other federal funds, collected or received. SB 168 A : Senate Rules reported out with -1 amendment 3/31 and recommended Do Pass with Amendments; Senate floor carried over to 4/5 by unanimous consent. Expressly prohibits public employees, while on job during working hours or while otherwise working in official capacity, from promoting or opposing appointment, nomination or election of public officials. SB 207 : Senate passed with ayes 21, nays 8 on 3/23; referred to House Rules; 4/4: public hearing scheduled. Authorizes Oregon Government Ethics Commission to proceed on its own motion to review and investigate, if the commission has reason to believe that the public body conducted meetings in executive session that were not in compliance with laws authorizing executive sessions. SB 292 A : Senate Rules; A2, A5 amendments on OLIS; 4/6: work session scheduled. Narrows applicability of requirement that district school board members must file verified statement of economic interest to only those members of districts with specified number of students or districts that are sponsors of virtual public charter schools. SB 661 A : Senate Rules adopted -2 amendment, Do Pass as amended; Senate floor carried over by unanimous consent. Prohibits lobbyist from serving as chair of interim committee, legislative work group or legislative task force. Campaign Finance No bills on campaign finance have yet been scheduled for a hearing. Redistricting There has been no movement on redistricting in the legislature. People Not Politicians has started collecting signatures on IP 14 petitions downloadable from its website. Election Methods By Barbara Klein No further developments this week. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED. Worthy causes go unaddressed for lack of League volunteers. If you see a need and can offer your expertise, please contact our staff at lwvor@lwvor.org .

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

Back to All Legislative Reports Governance Internships Legislative Report - Week of 4/28 Governance Team Coordinator: Becky Gladstone and Chris Cobey Artificial Intelligence: Lindsey Washburn Campaign Finance Reform: Norman Turrill Conflicts of Interest/Legislative Ethics: Chris Cobey CEI - Critical Energy Infrastructure : Nikki Mandell and Laura Rogers Cybersecurity Privacy, Election Issues, Electronic Portal Advisory Board: Becky Gladstone Election Systems: Barbara Klein Emergency Preparedness: Cate Arnold Immigration, Refugee, and Asylum: Claudia Keith Redistricting: Norman Turrill, Chris Cobey State Audit Working Group: Sheila Golden Voting Rights of Incarcerated People: Marge Easley Please see Governance Overview here . Jump to a topic: Governance Resilience, Privacy, Consumer Fees and Over-the-Horizon Radar Governance By Norman Turrill SB 686 would require large online platforms to pay digital journalism providers or donate to a Oregon Civic Information Consortium. This is an attempt to compensate small local media providers for news stories that are used by large national websites without compensation. It appears that Senate Rules will amend the bill and pass it out to the Senate floor. The League will likely testify in favor of the bill when it is heard in the House. SB 983 would permit local public officials to discuss, debate and vote on the adoption of a local budget that includes compensation for the public official or a relative of the public official after announcing an actual conflict of interest. This is a clear conflict of interest for these public officials, even though there are ways these conflicts could be avoided. SB 580 would require the election officer in each county and city to post within 2 business days on website any filed nominating petition, declaration of candidacy or withdrawal. The League is likely in favor of this bill in support of its Voter Services. Resilience, privacy, consumer fees and over the horizon radar By Becky Gladstone Bills with League testimony are progressing, reported here, and several not addressed in the first chamber will be considered for testimony in the second chamber: HB 2581 Enrolled The Governor has signed this bill to coordinate expanded resiliency services with the State Resiliency Officer (SRO), passed in the Senate, 27 for, one against, two excused. League testimony in support. SB 470 A had a public hearing in House Judiciary. After passing unanimously on the Senate Floor (Sen Woods excused). League testimony supported the original bill to protect lodgers’ privacy from illicitly taken videos SB 473 A had a public hearing in House Judiciary to create a crime of threatening a public official, after passing unanimously on the Senate Floor (Sen Woods excused). League testimony, in support. HB 3766 has passed unanimously from the House Floor (3 excused), and is referred to the Senate Judiciary. It would allow civil action against an adult who, unbidden, digitally sends intimate images (cyber-flashing) with the intent to harass, degrade or humiliate, League testimony in support. SB 952 has been heard on the Senate Floor, carried over by unanimous consent three times, to be heard on April 28, to consider interim US Senator appointments, League testimony in support. SB 430 -1 would improve consumer online transaction transparency. It passed in Senate Labor and Business on partisan lines, similarly passing on partisan lines on the Senate Floor,18 to 11, with a referral to House Commerce and Consumer Protection. Goods or services costs online must include all of the fees or charges (excluding taxes and shipping). Prices offered, displayed or advertised must be similarly included, also exempting listing taxes and reasonable charges for shipping goods or delivering services. An extensive listing of transactions and vendor varieties is included. The League anticipates submitting testimony in support. SB 1121 creates a new crime of unlawful private data disclosure, punishable by a maximum of six months' imprisonment, $2,500 fine, or both. It passed with a unanimous Senate Floor vote, Sen Woods excused, sent to House Judiciary. The League anticipates submitting testimony in support. SB 578 sets dates for candidates to file county voters’ pamphlet pictures or statements. It passed a Senate Floor vote unanimously, referred to House Rules. The League anticipates submitting testimony in support. PROPOSED OREGON HOMELAND SECURITY / US AIR FORCE RADAR DETECTION FACILITIES It is unusual to see national defense news relating to Oregon. The Air Force opened a 45-day public comment period on April 18, 2025, in the Federal Register with a Notice of Intent (NOI) for an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) of potential environmental effects. They are evaluating proposed radar transmission and receiver sites in Oregon (Christmas Valley, Lake CO, and White Horse Ranch, Harney CO), also in Idaho, and Nevada, to enhance threat detection radar from hundreds to possibly thousands of miles. The draft EIS release is planned for early 2026 and the final EIS for summer 2027. Site decisions will not be made before 30 days after the final EIS is released. This reminds us of infrastructure costs we described in our Hard Rock Mining study. Comments The Air Force is inviting comments with relevant information, studies, or analyses for potential issues, alternative actions, and environmental effects. The comment form is open at Over-the-Horizon Radar Environmental Impact Statement . Or send by USPS: OTHR NW EIS, 3527 S Federal Way, Ste. 103 #1026 , Boise, ID 83705. Public Meetings The Air Force invites the public, stakeholders, and other interested parties to attend public meetings: Mountain Home, Idaho—TU, May 6, 5pm - 7:00pm MT.American Legion Hall Post 101, 715 S 3rd W Street, Mountain Home, ID 83647 McDermitt, Nevada—WED, May 7, 5pm - 7pm PT.McDermitt Community Center by the McDermitt Library at 135 Oregon Rd McDermitt NV 89421 Ontario, Oregon—TH, May 8, 5pm - 7pm MT.Four Rivers Cultural Center & Museum, 676 SW 5th Ave Ontario OR 97914 ·Christmas Valley, Oregon—TU, May 13, 2025, 5pm – 7pm PT.Christmas Valley Community Hall, 87345 Holly Lane, Christmas Valley, OR 97641 Burns, Oregon—WED, May 14, 5pm - 7pm PT.Burns [Harney County] Chamber of Commerce, Burns, 484 N Broadway Ave., Burns, Oregon 97720 Virtual—MON, May 19, 5pm - 7pm MT. See www.othrnweis.com for the TEAMS meeting link. More Information for Oregon Canadian and US NORAD commitments continue but growing political tensions affect the defense sector. The US Air Force would build and operate northwest regional systems to enhance radar for long-range, early airborne threat detection beyond the conventional line of sight obscured by Earth’s curvature. They will consult with the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the Oregon State Historic Preservation Office, and federally recognized tribes. The EIS will include potential impacts assessment of all relevant resource areas, including reasonably foreseeable environmental effects. In Oregon, the USAF would purchase and lease land currently owned and managed by the Oregon Military Dept and seek to withdraw BLM managed land for siting and construction. Both Oregon locations would have two separated sites, 140 acres for a transmitter site and 1,350 acres for a receiving array. Extensive supporting infrastructure is estimated at more than $500 million, over three years. This echoes our 2018 Hard Rock Mining Study , which used an example mining operation that had “a road improvement budget of $450,000”. References Notice of Intent To Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement for Homeland Defense Over-the-Radar at Northwest Region . The Federal Register ( page ), April 18, 2025. Air Force eyes Idaho, Oregon and Nevada as potential homeland defense radar sites. Inside Defense, April 18, 2025. OTHR EIS This website includes a project overview, documents, public involvement, the schedule, and the public comment form link. Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Climate Emergency , Revenue , Natural Resources , and Social Policy report sections.

Diana was born and spent her early years in Colorado. She then lived in many different Western states, attending three different high schools, before earning a Bachelor of Science from the University of Washington. A few months after graduation Diana was commissioned in the United States Marine Corps, where she served as Air Defense Control Officer and Administrative Officer. She married a Marine Naval Aviator (AV-8B Harrier) and became an FAA Air Traffic Controller, working in tower and radar facilities on both coasts and overseas. After their two children graduated from high school, the couple moved aboard a 42-foot Hunter sailboat in the San Francisco Bay area. Then, in addition to becoming a sailor, Diana transitioned to federal law enforcement. After retiring from government work and moving back to the Pacific Northwest, Diana became interested in learning more about elections and joined LWV of Clackamas County. She is currently serving as LWVCC Membership Chair. Her latest League roles are LWVOR Membership Chair and LWVOR Youth Outreach Co-Chair with Mimi Alkire and Elizabeth Kirby. The threesome works as a team to support the civic engagement of young and future Oregon voters. Diana is building on her extensive past volunteer experience as an adult literacy tutor, school PTA Secretary, HOA and Yacht Club Board Director, and after school athletic youth coach. The outdoors has always been her favorite place, and she can often be found in the mountains or on trails in the Pacific Northwest. Diana DeMaria (Interim) Membership and Youth Outreach Chair Diana was born and spent her early years in Colorado. She then lived in many different Western states, attending three different high schools, before earning a Bachelor of Science from the University of Washington. A few months after graduation Diana was commissioned in the United States Marine Corps, where she served as Air Defense Control Officer and Administrative Officer. She married a Marine Naval Aviator (AV-8B Harrier) and became an FAA Air Traffic Controller, working in tower and radar facilities on both coasts and overseas. After their two children graduated from high school, the couple moved aboard a 42-foot Hunter sailboat in the San Francisco Bay area. Then, in addition to becoming a sailor, Diana transitioned to federal law enforcement. After retiring from government work and moving back to the Pacific Northwest, Diana became interested in learning more about elections and joined LWV of Clackamas County. She is currently serving as LWVCC Membership Chair. Her latest League roles are LWVOR Membership Chair and LWVOR Youth Outreach Co-Chair with Mimi Alkire and Elizabeth Kirby. The threesome works as a team to support the civic engagement of young and future Oregon voters. Diana is building on her extensive past volunteer experience as an adult literacy tutor, school PTA Secretary, HOA and Yacht Club Board Director, and after school athletic youth coach. The outdoors has always been her favorite place, and she can often be found in the mountains or on trails in the Pacific Northwest.

Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - November Interim Climate Emergency Team Coordinator: Claudia Keith Coordinator: Claudia Keith Efficient and Resilient Buildings: vacant Energy Policy: Claudia Keith Environmental Justice: vacant Natural Climate Solution Forestry: Josie Koehne Agriculture: vacant Community Resilience & Emergency Management: see Governance LR: Rebecca Gladstone Transportation: see NR LR Joint Ways and Means - Budgets, Lawsuits, Green/Public Banking, Divestment/ESG: Claudia Keith Find additional Climate Change Advocacy volunteers in Natural Resources Jump to a topic: Climate Emergency Highlights Natural and Working Lands/Natural Climate Solutions LWVUS Climate Advocacy Oregon Public Utility Update Oregon Global Warming Commission November Leg Day Policy Committee Meeting Review Environmental Justice Council Climate Lawsuits/Our Children’s Trust Volunteers Needed Climate Emergency Highlights Senator Michael Dembrow is expected to sponsor a bill (follow-up to SB 3409, 2023) during the 2024 Legislative Short Session (Feb 5 to March 10) to update Greenhouse Gas Emission targets to net-zero by 2050, into statute in 2024. It’s been 15 years since targets were set. There may be a divestment in the dirty coal bill specific to PERS funds. It’s unclear at this point if any follow-up on 2023 HB 2763 State Public Bank ( vetoed / unsigned by Gov Kotek ) will be filed. There will likely be an opportunity for LWVOR (with many other Climate coalition members), to oppose any natural gas legislation which weakens current DEQ and or DOE GHGE reduction goals. (See DEQ CPP rulemaking status). It is expected the following policy/budget topics will be moved to the 2025 long session: Water, Transportation, Air, Fracking moratorium update, DOE climate curriculum, and likely the data center (and crypto mining facilities) GHG emission reduction goals. Natural and Working Lands/Natural Climate Solutions The NCS coalition met recently and discussed collecting comments on the Institute for Natural Resources (INR) Report published in September. The Institute for Natural Resources (ORS 352.808) “works to deliver management-relevant information that informs discussions and decisions about the long-term stewardship of Oregon’s natural resources, and works to advance centralized, science-based natural resource information for Oregon and the Pacific Northwest.” This is part of the climate package that included the Natural Working Lands bill, HB 530 (2023 LWVOR testimony ) about meeting Oregon’s carbon sequestration and storage goals. There were discussions about the new Advisory Council additions that were part of the bill. There were questions about the process and approvals needed for allocations of the initial $10 million NWL Fund to be used for increasing agency budgets for grants and for increased capacity within the agencies to address climate change. Additional NCS resources: HERE . Budget: Given the Nov 15 favorable Oregon Economic and Revenue Forecast, Climate related Budget / funding state agency and environmental justice items will likely be added to the end of session budget bill. Note most of the new federal climate funds (IRA,..) require state matching funds. LWVUS Climate Advocacy Sept 2023: The Climate Crisis and the Urgent Need for Government Action | League of Women Voters Take Action: URGE CONGRESS TO ADDRESS CLIMATE CHANGE In Aug 2023 LWVUS Urges Congress to Support the Children’s Fundamental Rights and Climate Recovery Resolution ; “which recognizes the disproportionate impact of the climate crisis on the health, economic opportunities, and fundamental rights of children and the need for a national, science-based climate recovery plan to meet necessary emissions reduction targets and stabilize the climate system.” As in previous years, LWV UN will send observers to UNFCCC COP28 (Nov 30-Dec 12.) Robin tokmakian, LWV Portland and NWEC Advocate for LWVOR will be the designated LWV UN Observer for Climate. LWV is also an active NGO-approved UN IPCC observer . Global and Federal Climate report: ‘Uncharted territory’ imperils life on Earth | Oregon State University, Climate Scientists Fear the “Uncharted Territory” Earth Has Entered | Atmos.earth , US climate assessment lays out growing threats, opportunities as temperatures rise | Reuters, U .S. and China Agree to Displace Fossil Fuels by Ramping Up Renewables |The New York Times, Companies need to integrate climate reporting across functions to comply with California’s new law | Reuters, In California and Europe, a new dawn for corporate climate disclosure | The Hill, New Report Provides Comprehensive Plan to Meet U.S. Net-Zero Goals and Ensure Fair and Equitable Energy Transition | National Academies SEM. State and Region EQC action: The Environmental Quality Commission adopted these rules at its meeting on Nov. 16, 2023 . Item D: Climate 2023 Rulemaking (Action) Item D Presentation Slides Attachment A Attachment B Addendum A Opinion: Transition to clean energy in Oregon homes will prevail, despite fossil fuel industry’s tactics – Oregon Capital Chronicle, Federal regulators approve natural gas pipeline expansion through Oregon, Washington – Oregon Capital Chronicle, Sept: New analysis shows that, in a decisive decade for climate action, Oregon must aim higher | EDF, Portland approves 5-year, $750 million climate action plan | OPB. June 2023: After the longest walkout in Oregon’s history, the state’s climate progress hangs in the balance |EDF; “…One bill that currently hangs in the balance is HB 3409, a Climate Resilience Package that would set some of the most ambitious climate targets in the nation, aligned with what the latest climate science tells us is necessary to reach a safer, more stable climate. The update is long overdue, as it would be the first time Oregon has adjusted its climate targets in over 15 years.” States with net-zero carbon emissions targets - CSG ERC Oregon Global Warming Commission Meeting November 17, 2023, 9am – 1pm Online Meeting “Meetings of the Oregon Global Warming Commission are open to the public. Public comment is welcome. Agenda items are expected to be addressed in the order listed during the meeting. However, the Chair may elect to reorder agenda items during the meeting or to delay action on an item until the next meeting to accommodate the priorities of the Commission…” Oregon Public Utility Update By Greg Martin HB 2021 requires Oregon’s large investor-owned utilities and electricity service suppliers to decarbonize their retail electricity sales to maximize direct benefits to local communities. The utilities’ Clean Energy Plans (CEPs), overseen by OPUC, are the key regulatory mechanism for implementing the emissions reduction targets prior to 2030. OPUC undertook this investigation to identify key implementation issues that are within the commission’s authority to address. Administrative Law Judge John Mellgren presided over the hearing. Parties and intervenors included PacifiCorp, PGE, Oregon CUB, Green Energy Institute, Rogue Climate, NW Energy Coalition, Oregon Solar and Storage Industries Assn., NewSun Energy, Climate Solutions, and the Sierra Club. Discussion revolved around this memorandum’s four major issues. OPUC made no determination on these issues but sought input on its legal authority to require utilities to address certain factors arising from HB 2021 -- for example, the force of policy statements in the statute as distinct from concrete requirements. Not surprisingly, environmental groups argued that OPUC should have broad latitude in applying the law's language in utility proceedings. An interesting comment toward the end of the hearing: Regarding OPUC's approach to ensuring that utilities demonstrate “continual progress” toward meeting the clean energy targets, NewSun's counsel asserted that Oregon utilities don't fear the consequences of failing to show continual progress, whereas utilities in Washington are "scared" about it. Oregon Global Warming Commission By Josie Koehne The OGWC started off with Debbie Colbert, Deputy Director of the Oregon Department Fish & Wildlife stating that the $10 million approved by the Legislature available Natural & Working Lands Fund won’t be available for distribution to agencies for carbon sequestration incentives and technical assistance until April, 2024. The NWL Fund will be distributed to four agencies, ODFW, AG, ODF and OWEB, which ODOE will be distributing at the recommendation of the Global Warming Commission. ODOE is building capacity within its agency for this climate work. Catherine Mac Donald, OGWC Chair, gave an overview of the Natural and working Lands Proposal (approved Aug 4, 2021) and its proposed implementation strategies as outlined in bundled climate bill, HB 3409, passed in 2023. She went over requirements of the bill sections related to Natural and Working Lands, Sections 53-67 (originally HB 530). NWL requirements in the legislation: Establishes a 15-member Advisory Committee for implementing the NWL bill Identifies the Institute of Natural Resource of OSU (Lisa Gaines in charge) to build a baseline inventory of carbon for blue, brown and green carbon (wetlands, agriculture, grasslands, rangeland, and forestlands. The methodology for doing this inventory were Basic (EPA guidelines with additional modifications) and Advanced, which is more robust and collects more data points. The four OGWC subcommittee members (Apter, Ford, MacDonald and Rietmann) recommended using the Advanced methodology. The INR report included recommendations that are open to public comment to be collected through December, with the approval vote on this revised INR Report scheduled for January. So far over 1000 comments have been submitted. Includes Tribal consultation and process To be advised by both a Technical Team and the Advisory Committee Requires a Workforce Study and Report in consultation with the four agencies Defines a framework with metrics for Community Input (Pages 28-31 in the INR report) Includes Workforce Training and Assessment Includes activity-based metrics for carbon sequestration A discussion followed of the advisory committee member selection process, for their expertise, and expansion of representation on the advisory as an option in the bill. Note: LWVOR supports the comments of Lauren Anderson of Oregon Wild during this meeting on the lack of specificity in the forestry recommendations for activity-based metrics. In addition, our LWVOR comments: The term "better managed forests” as used in OSU’s INR report often carries the unstated assumptions of using the private industrial practices of fertilizing and herbicide use (which harms natural microbial action), and “thinning to reduce ladder fuels” with burning slash piles “to reduce wildfire risk.“ These practices would add CO2 to the atmosphere and reduce carbon sequestration while compacting the soils and interfering with beneficial microbial action that captures CO2 in the soil. As observers on the ground in federal and state public forests ((Paula Hood's group of PNWCA forestry team) have reported, “thinning” often equates to clear-cutting, so this term must be carefully defined and monitored. What is appropriate for industrial forestry is inappropriate for public lands with its requirements to serve many public purposes beside timber products production. Since fire resistant mature and old growth trees store far more quantities of carbon than young growing trees, their protection and promotion on both public and private forests should be included as a major carbon sequestration strategy. In addition, our limited NWL carbon sequestration funds should not be used for wildfire mitigation, which will soon get ample sources of federal and state funding. November Leg Day Policy Committee Meeting Review By Arlene Sherrett On November 13, 2023, the Oregon Department of Energy (DOE) hosted a webinar about the implementation of the State Energy Strategy authorized by HB 3630 . The webinar introduced the process for creating the Energy Strategy but did not go into the strategy itself. Brief presentations were given by each State of Oregon department that will have a role in formulating the strategy and implementing laws concerning climate change in Oregon. Oregon PUC, DOE, DEQ, DLCD, DOT and Business Oregon were represented, each giving their perspective on the strategy and the energy landscape in Oregon. Stakeholder engagement for the project was explained and public comment opportunities were highlighted. The process will culminate in delivery of a final report to the Governor and the Legislature on November 1, 2025. Learn more and sign up for email updates at the State Energy Strategy webpage . Senate Interim Committee on Energy and Environment – November 8, 2023 The Committee met for informational panels on four topics. Denmark's GreenLab and Circular Energy Infrastructure Development Christopher Sorensen, CEO, GreenLab, a Danish private/public collaboration, presented how the GreenLab concept works and how it helps with the transition to clean energy. By transforming any waste power, heat or fuel, in a usable form, storing that energy and preserving it for use to provide something someone else in the complex needs, all the businesses work together in a symbiotic fashion. Mr. Sorensen stated that an agreement had been reached between the Danish Foreign Ministry, the USDA, and GreenLab to share these concepts and to scout sites in the US that might be suitable for building similar facilities. Abandoned and Derelict Vessels Vicki Walker and Christopher Castelli from the Department of State Lands presented the development of a program to provide for proper disposal of abandoned vessels. The Department has the responsibility to clean up abandoned vessels and protect our waterways and ecosystems from toxic chemicals often found onboard. Since the Department also has the responsibility to provide funding for Oregon schools, expenses from vessel clean-up deplete school funding coffers. The Abandoned and Derelict Vessels (ADV) program will be designed to focus on prevention to avoid these high costs wherever possible. Of the vessels cleaned up and dismantled so far, one cost $1M and another cost $7M. The Legislature had given State Lands $18.8 M initially from the Monsanto settlement to do this work. Residential Solar in Oregon Christy Splitt, Government Relations Coordinator and Rob Del Mar, Senior Policy Analyst, both with the Oregon Department of Energy, presented on Oregon’s existing solar and storage incentives program. Mr. Del Mar reported that the Department has applied for a Federal Grant program called Solar for All, which would cover more people. Pacific Northwest Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub Janine Benner, Director of the Oregon Department of Energy, gave an overview of the Pacific Northwest Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub which has gained initial acceptance from the US Department of Energy, to try for one of the grants it is offering. Kate Hopkins, Chief Development Officer for NovoHydrogen, introduced the concept for a hydrogen node planned for Baker, Oregon, to manufacture and supply fuel for heavy trucking. House Interim Committee on Climate, Energy, and Environment The Committee hosted three informational panels at their 11/6/2023 meeting Transmission 101- Local electricity and high-voltage transmission professionals appeared before the committee for an informational update on issues with Oregon’s current electricity transmission system. With no established planning and controlling authority in place for the Northwest, panel members discussed how local transmission planning entities (the BPA, OPUC, and individual investor-owned utilities with individual IRP processes) can cooperate on a least cost, inclusive plan to adequately address the complexities of a highly interconnected system, design transmission capacity additions that serve everyone, and provide for the expanding electricity needs of the population between now and 2050, while at the same time, finding equitable cost-sharing solutions. Climate-smart agriculture Dr. Jeffrey Steiner, OSU, Greg Harris, Threemile Canyon Farm, and Shelby Leighton, Nez Perce Tribe Enterprises, appeared before the Committee to share the climate-smart agriculture project they have been working on. For this five-year, $50 billion USDA grant project, the group will grow potatoes (yes, they do taste different when grown using smart practices) using climate-smart techniques, such as use of cover crops, crop rotation, soil compaction, and regenerative ag. Across the US, USDA grants are being invested in similar research projects with regionally specific crops. Scientist Dr. Jeffrey Steiner is researching if climate-smart practices work and if they can increase CO2 sequestration in soils. Wildfire Funding Workgroup update A workgroup was convened by Senator Steiner to examine problems with wildfire funding. Dr. Steiner has been working with Doug Grafe, Wildfire and Military Advisor from the Office of the Governor, and has put together a group of experts to work on this critical problem until resolution is found. The workgroup has already identified one way to simplify funding by addressing the complexity in funding pathways, possibly through legislative action. Action probably will not be taken until the 2025 session. See Agenda and Meeting materials. Climate and environment bills for next session Rep. Mark Gamba gave a presentation to climate group Engineers for a Sustainable Future on November 14, 2023. He spoke informally about the difficulties of getting bills through the Legislature, including the number of bills to consider and the short time to consider them in, and the lack of organization around climate issues. Rep Gamba will be initiating the need for electrical transmission lines in the region. He wants to see a regional transmission organization (RTO) created by 2030, putting planning coordination into the hands of an appropriate entity. He would also like to create an organized climate caucus with funding in the state budget. A caucus would provide a way for climate bills to be considered together and be handled more effectively. Environmental Justice Council By Claudia Keith The new Oregon Environmental Justice Council has met a number of times and now includes an EJ Mapping subcommittee. EJ Mapping Subcommittee - November 13, 2023: 2pm - 3:30pm - ZOOM Council Meeting - December 5, 2023: 9am - 1pm Location: 700 NE Multnomah St, Portland, Oregon 97232 (Lloyd 700 Building 3rd Floor L700 Conference Room) October 17, 2023 Agenda Item 3: EJ Mapping Tool , Item 5: EJC Charter Draft Item 7: Zenith ADCP Letter , Item 7: DEQ Zenith Response Letter Watch the recorded meeting Climate Lawsuits/Our Children’s Trust By Claudia Keith The HILL: OPINION > ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT ‘ Big Oil’s day in court is coming — and it’s long overdue’ by Dana Zartner , JD, Ph.D., is a professor of international and comparative law with a focus on environmental justice at the University of San Francisco. 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 , (Nov 2023 update) some of which could assist in meeting Oregon's Net Zero GHG Emissions before 2050 targets, and other lawsuits, that challenge the 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 69 lawsuits , mentioning OREGON. Climate Emergency Team and Volunteers Needed Please consider joining the CE portfolio team; we lack volunteers in these critical policy areas: Natural and Working lands, specifically Agriculture/ODA Transportation and ODOT state agency 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: Orientation to Legislative and State Agency advocacy processes is available.

Born and raised in Grants Pass, Oregon, civic engagement runs deep for Evan. He was raised by a nurse and a teacher, whose guidance strongly shaped his life trajectory. His parents’ strong support for democracy and the rule of law was part of daily life during his upbringing. These values stuck with him, leading to involvement in multiple political movements in Grants Pass. After graduating from Grants Pass High School in 2022, Evan began studying Political Science and Legal Studies at the University of Oregon. He has been heavily involved in the University through the Young Democratic Socialists of America Club, Oregon Pit Crew, and Students for Justice in Palestine. In Spring 2023, Evan was selected to attend the Oxford Consortium for Human Rights at Oxford University, studying human rights from leading activists and scholars in the field. In his second year he began working as the Civic Engagement Program Assistant for the Holden Center for Leadership and Community Engagement, where he develops and facilitates civic discussions, and registers students to vote. Evan began his involvement with the League of Women Voters of Oregon in 2023, where he was a co-founder of the League’s Youth Council, taking on the role of the Youth Voter Strategist, where he aided in the development of outreach strategies to keep youth civically engaged. In 2024, he was elected as the President of the Youth Council, and became a Board Director for the state League. Evan Tucker Youth Director Born and raised in Grants Pass, Oregon, civic engagement runs deep for Evan. He was raised by a nurse and a teacher, whose guidance strongly shaped his life trajectory. His parents’ strong support for democracy and the rule of law was part of daily life during his upbringing. These values stuck with him, leading to involvement in multiple political movements in Grants Pass. After graduating from Grants Pass High School in 2022, Evan began studying Political Science and Legal Studies at the University of Oregon. He has been heavily involved in the University through the Young Democratic Socialists of America Club, Oregon Pit Crew, and Students for Justice in Palestine. In Spring 2023, Evan was selected to attend the Oxford Consortium for Human Rights at Oxford University, studying human rights from leading activists and scholars in the field. In his second year he began working as the Civic Engagement Program Assistant for the Holden Center for Leadership and Community Engagement, where he develops and facilitates civic discussions, and registers students to vote. Evan began his involvement with the League of Women Voters of Oregon in 2023, where he was a co-founder of the League’s Youth Council, taking on the role of the Youth Voter Strategist, where he aided in the development of outreach strategies to keep youth civically engaged. In 2024, he was elected as the President of the Youth Council, and became a Board Director for the state League.

The League of Women Voters of Oregon conducts voter education and pro-democracy advocacy, and believes it is critical to understand the potential consequences of the recall process as part of our elections framework. Assessing the Recall Process In Oregon About the Study The League of Women Voters of Oregon conducts voter education and pro-democracy advocacy, and believes it is critical to understand the potential consequences of the recall process as part of our elections framework. What is recall? Oregon voters in 1908 amended the state Constitution to allow for recall of public officials. A recall election enables voters to remove an elected official from office before the official's term has ended. A total of 19 states now permit recall of state officials, while 39 states allow recall of public officials at the local level. Procedures differ greatly across the country. This study examines Oregon law and process, as well as practices in other states where recall is permitted. Voters and the courts have since modified Oregon’s recall process several times since 1908 to clarify who is subject to recall, the number of valid signatures required to qualify a recall petition, procedures for filling vacated seats, and the role and methods of elections officials overseeing the recall process. Article II, Section 18, of the Oregon Constitution establishes requirements. Assessing the Recall Process In Oregon Full study: Assessing the Recall Process In Oregon , PDF The Historical Development and Use of the Recall In Oregon , PDF Voters' Pamphlet 1984 , PDF Previous Next

Back to All Legislative Reports Governance Internships Legislative Report - Week of 6/9 Governance Team Coordinator: Becky Gladstone and Chris Cobey Artificial Intelligence: Lindsey Washburn Campaign Finance Reform: Norman Turrill Conflicts of Interest/Legislative Ethics: Chris Cobey CEI - Critical Energy Infrastructure : Nikki Mandell and Laura Rogers Cybersecurity Privacy, Election Issues, Electronic Portal Advisory Board: Becky Gladstone Election Systems: Barbara Klein Emergency Preparedness: Cate Arnold Immigration, Refugee, and Asylum: Claudia Keith Redistricting: Norman Turrill, Chris Cobey State Audit Working Group: Sheila Golden Voting Rights of Incarcerated People: Marge Easley Please see Governance Overview here . Jump to a topic: Campaign Finance General Governance, Privacy, and Consumer Protection Elections Artificial Intelligence Rulemaking and Audits Campaign Finance and Initiatives By Norman Turrill We are still waiting for urgently needed technical amendments to HB 4024 (2024) on campaign contribution limits, which are expected to be amended into HB 3392 . Since we are nearing the end of the session, we fear that this will not happen or will happen haphazardly. SB 686 A requires online websites, when news stories are copied, to pay digital journalism providers or donate to the Oregon Civic Information Consortium. Senate Rules recommended the bill Do Pass with a partisan 3-2 vote. However, a Minority Report was also filed for the bill, so both reports will go to the Senate floor. The League has not taken a position on this bill but is generally sympathetic in support of local journalism. SB 1077 would require the Public Records Advisory Council to study public records. However, the proposed -1 amendment would replace the bill with several updates to the public records law that were born of multiple years of drafting and negotiation amongst numerous stakeholders, first through the Public Records Advisory Council (PRAC), which became SB 417 (2023) that did not make it out of session, and then via a two-year long workgroup gathered by Senator Lieber after concerns were raised by some public bodies during hearings on the PRAC bill. The amendment had a public hearing in Senate Rules 6/4. It adds a definition for the term "commercial requester." It amends the current fees, creates an allowable fee for commercial requesters, and establishes how the fees collected from commercial requesters will be distributed. It establishes a process for a requester to receive an explanation of the fees charged, and allows non-commercial requesters to request a waiver, or a substantial reduction, of fees, if it is in the public interest. The SB 1077 amendment was opposed in testimony from several local governments. It is supported by the PRAC, the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ), and others. The League has not yet taken a position on the amendment but is generally supportive. General Governance, Privacy, and Consumer Protection By Becky Gladstone SB 952 Enrolled , to consider interim US Senator appointments, League testimony in support, is headed to the Governor for signing. See the OPB article which quoted League testimony. “Without appointed representation, we could lack a US Senator’s voice from Oregon for months, election calendar timing varying,” the League of Women Voters of Oregon said in written testimony. “We deserve to be prepared for this.” SB 430 Enrolled for comprehensive business transparency to protect consumers is headed to the Governor for signing. League testimony in support addressed extensive amendments. SB 473 B Prohibits the possession of a firearm by a person convicted of menacing a public official. It is being sent from House Judiciary, with Do Pass with amendments, to be printed B-Engrossed, with a dramatically revised relating clause, back to House Rules. We await that further public hearing to submit testimony supporting the new relating clause. Our initial League testimony supported creating the crime of threatening a public official. Further interim amendments included those elected, appointed, or filed to serve an established office, adding numerous judicial branch roles. SB 224 A in support of privacy for campaign committee staff home addresses, has a House Rules work session scheduled for June 9, after passing in the Senate with just one dissenting vote. League testimony supports. HB 3569 A would invite a sponsoring legislator, committee chair or designee onto the bill’s Rules Advisory Committee, as a non-voting member. This was rescheduled twice in Senate Rules, passed 4-0, to be carried to the Senate floor. Our testimony opposes for myriad reasons. Elections By Barbara Klein SB 580 A-Eng. requires filing officers in each county and city to make publicly available on the county or city website certain election documents that are filed with the officers within a specified period. The goal of the bill is to provide more timely transparency to voters showing declarations or withdrawals of candidates. The bill was in House Rules for a public hearing on June 5th, at which time the League submitted testimony , based on the needs of our work producing League Voters’ Guides and Vote411 publications. There will be a work session on June 9th. As mentioned in a previous report, the amendment accommodated different issues within counties. Concessions were made to accommodate challenges between large/small, urban/rural counties. Candidacy declarations for precinct committee persons are exempt. HB3908 relates to party membership and registration requirements. It was filed by the Rules Committee at the request of the Independent Party of Oregon (IPO). The bill increases the percentage of state voters from 5 to 10 percent required for a party to be a major political party. This would make the development of a new major party more difficult. The LWVOR did not address this bill. On June 4th this bill proceeded to the House floor for a second reading scheduled for June 9th with a Minority Report Recommendation proposed. The minority amendment would allow “fusion” voting (or cross nominations) only between major party candidates. It states, “ An affiliation of electors may nominate for an office a candidate who has been nominated for the same office by another political party only if the affiliation of electors meets and maintains the major political party membership registration requirements under this section.” Minor party candidates could only be cross-nominated by other minor parties; minor parties cannot cross-nominate a major party candidate. Subsequent to the second reading (June 9th), a third reading on June 10th is scheduled for consideration of committee and minority reports as well as the final consideration. There was strong opposition to the original bill, and support for an amendment ( HB 3908 A-Eng), by the minority members. HB 5017 A-Eng . appropriates monies from the General Fund to the State Library for biennial management expenses. On June 2nd, the House floor passed the bill (49-5). June 3rd it was referred to Ways & Means. June 5th Recommendation: Do pass A-Engrossed bill and 2nd reading on Senate Floor; the Third reading is expected June 9th. Legislative Fiscal Office (LFO) analysis can be viewed here . (Basically, there was an increase in budget representing levels of inflation only.) The League submitted testimony in February on the bill. In part, that testimony stated: “ The Oregon State Library lists partnerships with 39 organizations, the League of Women Voters being one of them. We have been partners for many years, supplying information about Oregon elections. The State Talking Books Library helps us provide voting information that is accessible to the Library’s registered clients.” Artificial Intelligence By Lindsey Washburn HB3936 A bans the use of AI on state assets if the AI is developed or owned by a covered (foreign) vendor. It has already passed the House 52 to 0. It is now scheduled for a final debate and vote on the Senate floor on June 9. Rulemaking and Audits By Peggy Lynch HB 3569 , a bill that would require a Chief Sponsor (legislator) of a bill to be a part of a rules advisory committee (RAC) for legislation they had a hand in passing, passed the House. The League provided testimony with our concerns and opposition to the bill. The bill passed Senate Rules on June 5 and now goes to the Senate floor for a vote. The League continues to have discussions with Legislative Leadership and the Governor’s office on these RACs bills, explaining our concerns. Because the League is often engaged in rulemaking, we regularly 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. The League joined others in sharing concerns about this bill to members of House Rules. It was pulled from the scheduled work session on May 28th. The League continues to follow the bills listed on the March 17 agenda of the Senate Committee On Rules since some of the bills relate to the process of rulemaking ( SB 437 , SB 1006 , SB 370 , SB 483 ) and SB 411 , SB 895 also in Senate Rules. HB 2454 passed House Rules with the -1 amendment and sent to Ways and Means. The bill creates a new Audits Officer (with possible additional staff). The Jt. Audits Committee would hire the Officer. From Leader Bowman’s office: “ HB 2454 changes the statutory authority related to audits and audit reviews from the Legislative Fiscal Office to the Legislative Audit Officer (LAO) and authorizes the LAO to hire necessary staff to carry out assigned functions. The LAO and his/her staff will be housed under the new Legislative Performance Oversight and Government Accountability Office. The bill does substitute LFO for the LAO on a number of responsibilities. LFO will continue fiscal analyses and other duties, while audits and oversight will be housed under the LAO.” We are concerned with HB 3382 , since the requirements of the Secretary of State to gather ALL the state agencies’ rulemaking, including all materials, would be overwhelming. Individual state agencies provide that information on their rulemaking websites. A work session was held May 28 where the -2 amendment was adopted to delay the web work and the bill sent to Ways and Means. Separately, the League was invited to a conversation among state agency rules staff on addressing concerns of the Governor and in an attempt to standardize the process statewide. The Governor has provided Rulemaking Guidance to state agencies: This document includes questions received from agencies since the Governor’s letter. This document includes additional resources for agencies including direction to post updates to the Transparency site, a website template that agencies can use (if they choose) to develop their pages, and links to other comprehensive agency rule making sites to review. There is a broader discussion to increase transparency and consistency in the state agencies’ rulemaking process. A second meeting related to the state agency rules process is set for June with an invitation to the League to continue to participate. Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Climate Emergency , Revenue , Natural Resources , and Social Policy report sections.

Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 2/5 Climate Emergency Team Coordinator: Claudia Keith Coordinator: Claudia Keith Efficient and Resilient Buildings: vacant Energy Policy: Claudia Keith Environmental Justice: vacant Natural Climate Solution Forestry: Josie Koehne Agriculture: vacant Community Resilience & Emergency Management: see Governance LR: Rebecca Gladstone Transportation: see NR LR Joint Ways and Means - Budgets, Lawsuits, Green/Public Banking, Divestment/ESG: Claudia Keith Find additional Climate Change Advocacy volunteers in Natural Resources Jump to a topic: Climate Emergency Highlights Senate Energy and Environment Climate Litigation News Volunteers Needed The 2024 short session runs Feb. 5 through March 10th. Bills in most committees must be scheduled for a work session by Feb. 12 and acted on by Feb. 19 th in the first chamber. The legislative calendar is posted on the Oregon Legislature website . Climate Emergency Highlights Planned League Testimony - Support SB 1559 GHG Emission Modernization - Senator Dembrow: SE&E Public Hearing is scheduled for Tues Feb 13 . One of the issues being discussed is using the word goal or aspiration goal . The most powerful legal term would be specific mandated reduction targets in 2030 or 2035 and 2040 with zero net emissions before 2050. Budget Omnibus Bill - End of Session JW&M committee: Support funding for: Healthy Homes, EV Rebate and Climate-Friendly Micro-mobility transport Programs totaling $50 million. Other Climate Emergency Bills League testimony posted, or we are following and may have testimony: Off-Shore Wind: League HB 4080 Testimony , Find discussion in NR Coastal Issues Leg Report. Clean Tech Leadership Bill HB 4112 public hearing is 2/12 and planned work session 2/14. Right to Repair: HB 1596 Find discussion in NR Leg Report, League Testimony HB 4155 Infrastructure funding study - Rep Gamba in HEMGGV committee, Public Hearing was 2/8 and new 2/13 HB 4083 Coal Act Requires Oregon Investment Council and Treasury to divest from Thermal Coal investments. Work Session HEMGGV 2/13 Environmental Justice: Budget Omnibus Bill– End of Session: Continue Oregon Worker Relief Funding Senate Energy and Environment By Claudia Keith Feb 8 th meeting was taken up solely with the public hearing on Right to Repair ( SB 1596 ). The committee was scheduled to hear testimony on SB 1581 (requiring PGE and PP to report to the legislature on their participation in a regional energy market) but carried that hearing over to Monday 2/12. SB 1596: Chair Sollman defended her bill as a hard-won compromise that addresses the main concerns raised against SB 542 last year: data security, intellectual property, safety, and liability. OSPIRG strongly supports the bill with the -12 amendment. Google also supports the bill as do dozens of small businesses including Free Geek. OBI is neutral, citing significant improvements: stronger protections for intellectual property and trade secrets and the removal of the right of private action (consumer lawsuits). Apple remains the heavyweight opponent, demanding the removal of the prohibition on parts pairing. Repair Done Right Coalition also opposes and the Consumer Technology Association has critical concerns about unintended consequences. SB 1581: Appears non-controversial. PGE is neutral since the -1 amendment would simply require the utilities to deliver an oral presentation before the appropriate legislative committee, rather than a formal written report, by January 15 each year. Other Budget Senator Dembrow‘s recent newsletter details his understanding of the status of current budget priorities. Climate Litigation DOJ Files Petition for Wit of Mandamus to end Juliana Climate Litigation - The Justice Department is wasting no time seeking to put this zombie litigation out of its misery, and the plaintiffs are not happy about it. Reason. COM. Our Children’s Trust Response . It is unclear at this time how the League’s (LWVUS and LWVOR) will oppose this new filing. News This Is Oregon Scientists’ Plan to Save the World – Portland Monthly The radical proposal of Oregon State University researchers aims to avoid climate change via greater biodiversity and more forestlands—and a no-growth economy. January 20 2024. Scientists outline a bold solution to climate change, biodiversity loss, social injustice’ PHYS .org . Senator Merkley: Take Climate Impacts into Consideration when Reviewing New Fossil Gas Infrastructure Projects - Merkley . Merkley, Colleagues: Allocate Dedicated Inflation Reduction Act Funding for Independent Methane Monitoring - Merkley https://phys.org/news/2024-01-scientists-outline-bold-solution-climate.html Climate Emergency Volunteers Needed Please consider joining the CE portfolio team; we lack volunteers in these critical policy areas: • Natural Climate Solutions, specifically Oregon Dept of Agriculture (ODA) • Climate Related Lawsuits/Our Children’s Trust • Public Health Climate Adaptation (OHA) • Regional Solutions / Infrastructure (with NR team)

 • State Procurement Practices (DAS: Dept. of Admin. Services)

 • CE Portfolio State Agency and Commission Budgets • Climate Migration 

 • Oregon Treasury: ESG investing/Fossil Fuel divestment 

 We collaborate with LWVOR Natural Resource Action Committee members on many Climate Change mitigation and adaptation policy topics. Volunteers are needed: Training for Legislative and State Agency advocacy processes is available.

Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 2/12 Climate Emergency Team Coordinator: Claudia Keith Coordinator: Claudia Keith Efficient and Resilient Buildings: vacant Energy Policy: Claudia Keith Environmental Justice: vacant Natural Climate Solution Forestry: Josie Koehne Agriculture: vacant Community Resilience & Emergency Management: see Governance LR: Rebecca Gladstone Transportation: see NR LR Joint Ways and Means - Budgets, Lawsuits, Green/Public Banking, Divestment/ESG: Claudia Keith Find additional Climate Change Advocacy volunteers in Natural Resources Jump to a topic: Climate Emergency Priority Bills Other Climate Emergency Bills Senate Energy and Environment Climate Emergency News Volunteers Needed By Claudia Keith, Climate Emergency Coordinator, and Team Climate Emergency Priority Bills SB 1559 GHG Modernization Because of real or perceived opposition party threats Legislature Leadership has chosen not to move SB 1559 GHG Emission Modernization – to a vote, as discussed in 2/13 SE&E PH . League Testimony . The bill which would have updated Oregon’s 2007 GHGE targets to reflect current science is now dead. The League fines this unacceptable, and we are considering a letter to Leg Leadership and the Governor. Budget Omnibus Bill - End of Session JW&M committee: Support funding for: Healthy Homes, EV Rebate, Climate-Friendly Micro-mobility transport and Environmental Justice related Worker Relief funding Programs all totaling $59 million. There is currently $15M in SB1530 for Healthy Homes. See also the Housing Report in the Social Policy section of this Legislative Report. Other Climate Emergency Bills League testimony posted, or we are following and may have testimony: Off-Shore Wind: League HB 4080 Testimony, Find discussion in Natural Resources Legislative Report. Clean Tech Leadership Bill HB 4112 public hearing was 2/12 and 2/14 and planned work session 2/19. League Testimony . Funding is $20M. Right to Repair: HB 1596 Find discussion in NR Leg Report, League Testimony HB 4155 Infrastructure funding study - Rep Gamba and Sen Golden - was in HEMGGV committee, moved to JWM. Fiscal $250K. Testimony is planned. HB 4083 Coal Act: Requires Oregon Investment Council and Treasury to divest from Thermal Coal investments. Work Session HEMGGV 2/16 . House Chamber vote is scheduled for 2/19. Testimony is planned for Senate PH. HB 4102 Funding mechanism for Natural and Working Lands Fund. (carbon sequestration). Almost unanimous Affirmative House vote, now in the Senate, Zero Fiscal. Environmental Justice: Budget Omnibus Bill – End of Session: Continue Oregon Worker Relief Funding $9M. Senate Energy and Environment By Claudia Keith The committee moved SB 1581-2 to the Senate floor with a do-pass recommendation (Hayden objecting). As amended, the bill simply requires PGE and Pacific Power to verbally report to the legislature by January 15 each year on "activities, including plans or preparations, that the investor-owned utility has taken or is taking toward participating in a regional energy market.” The amended bill has a sunset date of 1/2/2031. Supporters said the bill would ensure that the legislature stays informed on the emerging impacts of competing power markets even though the PUC regulates these activities. Department of Environmental Quality : Action on Climate Change Home: Action on Climate Change : State of Oregon Department of Environmental Quality: Climate Protection Program: State of Oregon. Climate Emergency News Recent publications: Oregon State University research makes key advance for capturing carbon from the air | Oregon State University, Oregon commission approves ‘carbon capture’ fund for state’s natural and working lands | OPB, A new map shows how much carbon dioxide is stored in Oregon’s Coos Bay estuary | OPB, Oregon could be on brink of decarbonizing state investments | OPB, More than two dozen Oregon lobbyists work for both sides on climate change, report finds | Oregon Capital Chronicle, Federal government finalizes floating offshore wind areas off the Oregon Coast – OPB, Buttigieg on why (fossil fuel) rail safety measures have stalled one year after East Palestine disaster | PBS NewsHour. Climate Emergency Team and Volunteers Needed Please consider joining the CE portfolio team; we lack volunteers in these critical policy areas: • Natural Climate Solutions, specifically Oregon Dept of Agriculture (ODA) • Climate Related Lawsuits/Our Children’s Trust • Public Health Climate Adaptation (OHA) • Regional Solutions / Infrastructure (with NR team)

 • State Procurement Practices (DAS: Dept. of Admin. Services)

 • CE Portfolio State Agency and Commission Budgets • Climate Migration 

 • Oregon Treasury: ESG investing/Fossil Fuel divestment 

 We collaborate with LWVOR Natural Resource Action Committee members on many Climate Change mitigation and adaptation policy topics. Volunteers are needed: Training for Legislative and State Agency advocacy processes is available.

Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 4/28 Climate Emergency Team Coordinator: Claudia Keith Coordinator: Claudia Keith Efficient and Resilient Buildings: vacant Energy Policy: Claudia Keith Environmental Justice: vacant Natural Climate Solution Forestry: Josie Koehne Agriculture: vacant Community Resilience & Emergency Management: see Governance LR: Rebecca Gladstone Transportation: see NR LR Joint Ways and Means - Budgets, Lawsuits, Green/Public Banking, Divestment/ESG: Claudia Keith Find additional Climate Change Advocacy volunteers in Natural Resources Please see Climate Emergency Overview here. Jump to a topic: Joint Ways and Means CE Funding Topics Environmental Justice Bills Climate Priorities with League Testimony , League Endorsement Critical Energy Infrastructure (CEI) Emergency Management Package Environmental Rights Constitutional Amendment Climate Treasury Investment Bills Natural and Working Lands Other Climate Bills Priority Bills That Died In Policy Committee Climate Emergency JWM Budget Concerns Highlights of House and Senate Chamber Votes Climate Lawsuits/Our Children’s Trust Oregon Treasurer: Oregon Divest A few federal court rulings have favorably affected Biden admin IRA funding despite the current administration’s attempt to freeze the minutes. ‘The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act ‘, provides an expanded overview of funding in Oregon. Joint Ways and Means CE Funding Topics Transportation Package Priorities The League supports OCN and other statewide NGO budget priorities: Increase funding above 2017 levels for public transit Increase funding above 2017 levels for a safe, complete multimodal system (i.e. GreatStreets , Safe Routes to School, Oregon Community Paths, and bike/ped both on-street and trails, etc.) Dedicated or increased revenue for light, medium and heavy-duty vehicle incentives, including for charging and purchasing of ZEVs (🡪 See NR LR for additional details) Energy Affordability and Utility Accountability The League joined a coalition sign-on letter this past week requesting funding to support building resilience. The goal is to use affordable measures to protect people from extreme weather. One Stop Shop 2.0/Energy Efficiency Navigation ( HB 3081 ): This bill would create a navigation program at ODOE to help Oregonians access federal, state, local, and utility energy efficiency incentives all in one place. Get the Junk Out of Rates ( SB 88 ): This bill would stop utilities from charging certain expenses like lobbying, advertising, association fees to customers. Protecting Oregonians with Energy Responsibility (POWER Act) ( HB 3546 ): This bill ensures Oregon households are not unfairly burdened by large energy users with grid and transmission costs. Full Funding for Climate Resilience programs Reinvesting the same amount as last biennium in three programs: Rental Home Heat Pump Program (ODOE), $30m Community Heat Pump Deployment Program (ODOE), $15m Community Resilience Hubs (OREM), $10m ( House Bill 3170 ) 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. Climate Priorities with League Testimony with League Endorsement and Still Alive By Claudia Keith 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 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 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 . 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. 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 : 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 
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 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 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. 
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 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 . SB 54 :. The bill required landlords to provide cooling for residential units . SB 1187 new Climate cost recovery Liability interagency bill , SB 680 : Climate Science/Greenwashing , Sen. Golden and Manning Climate Emergency JWM Budget Concerns By Claudia Keith This list may still be reflective of the current CE prioritized investments for 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 14 agencies.) Highlights of House and Senate Chamber Votes April 21: Senate E&E Held a work session on HB 2567 A , which passed the House unanimously in March. The bill would modify the Heat Pump Deployment Program's eligibility criteria, funding distribution, and rebate structures. It would change “Environmental Justice” community to “disadvantaged” community; remove the 15% cap on administrative and marketing expenses and allow ODOE to set the cap by rule; allow ODOE to provide an additional incentive amount of up to $1,000 for contractors who install rental heat pumps in rural or frontier communities (incentives limited to no more than 5% of available funds); and extend the sunset date to 2032. It would provide no additional funding for the rebate program. Senate E&E adopted an -A3 amendment to the House engrossed bill, stating that if ODOE awards a grant to an eligible entity and additional funds become available for the program, ODOE may award additional grant moneys to the eligible entity using the existing performance agreement between the entity and ODOE. The committee voted unanimously to move the bill as amended to the Senate floor with a do pass recommendation. April 22: House Chamber House voted 41-16, to pass HB 3546 A , a priority bill on the OCN hot list that directs the PUC to provide for a classification of service for large energy use facilities such as data centers. 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. 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