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

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

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

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

Back to All Legislative Reports Natural Resources Legislative Report - December Interim 2024 Natural Resources Team Coordinator: Peggy Lynch Coastal Issues: Christine Moffitt, Peggy Lynch Columbia River Treaty: Philip Thor Dept. of Geology and Mineral Industries: Joan Fryxell Emergency Management: Rebecca Gladstone Forestry: Josie Koehne Elliott State Research Forest: Peggy Lynch Northwest Energy Coalition: Robin Tokmakian Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife: Melanie Moon Oregon Health Authority Drinking Water Advisory Committee: Sandra Bishop Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board: Water: Peggy Lynch Wildfire: Carolyn Mayers Ways and Means Natural Resource Budgets/Revenue: Peggy Lynch Jump to a topic: Agriculture Budgets/Revenue Climate Coastal Issues Columbia River Treaty Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Department of State Lands (DSL) Drinking Water Advisory Committee Elliott State Research Forest (ESRF) Emergency Management Forestry (ODF) Hanford Land Use and Housing Recycling Regional Solutions Transportation Water Wildfire Agriculture Look for a new lobbying group to Keep Oregon Farming by advocating for MORE uses on farmland. A separate group will be advocating for reducing the current number of uses on farmland. The Land Conservation and Development Commission (LCDC) updated their Farm and Forest rules (starting on page 16) at their December meeting. The rules are meant to codify case law to help local governments administer land use applications. Budgets/Revenue The new Chief Economist provided the Governor and legislature with a positive Revenue Forecast on Nov. 20th which included an increase in expected revenue for 2025-27 and a larger personal kicker. Here is their Press Release . As a result of the increase from the Sept. forecast, the Governor adjusted her draft budget to add staff and/or programs before her Dec. 2nd budget release. Her budget is required to be “balanced” so she did not address the revenue shortfall for the Oregon Dept. of Transportation (ODOT). Instead, she acknowledged the work of the Joint Transportation Committee and its many hearings around the state and left it to the legislature to figure out exactly how to fund ODOT’s responsibilities. The Emergency Board met on Dec. 12th. Here is their agenda . See the meeting materials or the Subcommittee meetings for details of the requests. Budgets 2025 By Peggy Lynch Now that the Governor’s budget (GRB) has been released, the state agencies, who work for the Governor, can only advocate for the GRB. Their agency request budgets (ARBs) were used as a basis for the Governor’s decisions, but it is the GRB that now governs. However, the Governor proposes; the legislature disposes. And those of us who engage in the budget process now must focus on convincing legislators (especially the Ways and Means Committee and the Subcommittees) of the need to fund those programs and staffing the League determines as priorities using our League positions ). The next Revenue Forecast will be Feb. 26th. The legislature will use that forecast to do a final rebalance of the 2023-25 budget. Then the May 14th forecast will be the basis for the legislature to determine the 2025-27 state budget. Climate By Claudia Keith and Team Here are future climate projections for Oregon counties. See the Climate Emergency section of this Legislative Report. T here are overlaps with this Natural Resources Report. We encourage you to read both sections. Coastal Issues By Christine Moffitt and Peggy Lynch There is a new advocacy group addressing ocean issues for the 2025 session: The Oregon Ocean Alliance. Among the issues we expect to be addressed is protection of eelgrass . Other concerns: “A new report spells out exactly how much Oregon’s kelp forests have dwindled over the past decade or so — and the picture is bleak.” “Kelp forests are a key marine ecosystem. They act as a home and nursery for a number of fish species important in Oregon’s commercial and recreational fisheries.” Then two groups are launching a campaign to address shoreline erosion. And climate change is causing low-oxygen levels per an OSU report . The Dept. of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) hosted a kickoff meeting of the Offshore Wind Energy Roadmap Roundtable on November 1st. The video from the kickoff meeting is available on DLCD's YouTube channel here: Offshore Wind Roadmap Roundtable Kickoff . The agenda and meeting materials may be found here , and a copy of the slides may be found here . For more information on the Oregon Offshore Wind Energy Roadmap, please visit the DLCD webpage here: Offshore Wind Roadmap . This engagement was supported by LWVOR and HB 4080 (2023). For more information on offshore wind, this article provides a great update. The Port of Coos Bay has received a number of federal grants. $25 million was awarded to advance environmental review, permitting, and preliminary engineering and design for the intermodal terminal component of the larger PCIP project, including the railyard, container yard, wharf, and berths. The entire project is expected to cost $2.3 billion! Another $29 million was awarded to upgrade the railroad so there is a land connection to I-5. The League has many concerns about this project and its effect on that eelgrass mentioned above. It is also located in an area where a tsunami could destroy the Port. Columbia River Treaty By Phillip Thor The U.S. and Canada announced a new agreement, although, to the disappointment of the League and others, it didn't include the concept of ecosystem function as part of the river's management. Soon after learning about the agreement, the federal government announced a Columbia Basin Restoration Initiative that addresses some of our concerns about the Treaty. Flood control updates were added. There is hope that the entire details can be completed before the next federal administration takes charge. Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) By Peggy Lynch A League member is serving on a rulemaking advisory committee to address sewer availability and accessory dwelling unit (ADU) issues prompted by bills enacted by the 2021 and 2023 sessions and supported by LWVOR. Here is the DEQ 2025-27 Governor’s Recommended Budget. Department of State Lands (DSL) By Peggy Lynch See Elliott State Research Forest below for the agency’s role in that issue. See the Wetlands section of this report for information on removal/fill fee rulemaking. The last State Land Board meeting was Dec. 10th. Drinking Water Advisory Committee By Sandra Bishop December 16, is the fiftieth anniversary of the Safe Drinking Water Act, signed into law in 1974, by President Gerald R. Ford. The measure required the Environmental Protection Agency to set maximum contaminant levels for drinking water and required states to comply with them. It protected the underground sources of drinking water and called for emergency measures to protect public health if a dangerous contaminant either was in or was likely to enter a public water system. (Thank you Heather Cox Richardson) Elliott State Research Forest (ESRF) The State Land Board met on Oct. 15th to appoint additional ESRF Board members and adopt its first Forest Management Plan. Among the decisions was approving joining a carbon market in order to provide revenue for the management of the forest and doing the research intended in the forest. The carbon credits agreement has been signed. The Dept. of State Lands will ask for additional General Funds to fund the forest and staff, but we also expect a beginning timber sale in the spring. Sadly, Bob Sallinger, an ESRF Board member and an advocate for the forest for many years, passed away recently. His passion for the birds of the forest helped stop the forest from being sold. (The League played a role in this effort as well.) He then worked tirelessly to find an answer for the forest. He attended the Oct. 15th Land Board meeting and saw these first steps taken toward his vision. He was honored at the beginning of the House Interim Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources and Water meeting. Visit DSL's Elliott webpage to learn more . Emergency Management By Lily Yao The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) invites all Oregonians to participate in shaping the future of emergency management across the state. On February 11, from 10:00-11:30 a.m. , OEM is hosting its second annual town hall where community members and partners from all backgrounds can provide input and feedback on the agency’s 2023–2025 Strategic Plan and the OEM Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) plan. One of LWVOR’s Youth Council members will be attending the event. Forestry (Oregon Dept. of Forestry ODF) By Josie Koehne On Nov. 22, the Board of Forestry met for a special session to decide on criteria for a computer model to test run different forest management scenarios for timber harvests on state forest lands. The model will project outcomes over a 30-year period assuming that the approved Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) is in place. The intent of modeling of various scenarios is to show examples of the trade-offs between resources and outcomes under different implementation approaches. The model will provide a scientific basis for management decisions, and the chosen plan will be incorporated into the Western Oregon Forest Management Plan (FMP) which is due to be approved by the Board this time next year. There has been much controversy in past meetings about harvest levels since state forests must be managed for Greatest Permanent Value for all Oregonians. At a previous meeting in September, we reported that the Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee (FTLAC) attended the last Board meeting in person and provided input, arguing for greater harvest levels to increase revenue for the trust land counties, while various environmental groups supported lower harvest levels and growing trees longer in order to protect wildlife habitat and increase carbon sequestration to help fight climate change. There was agreement on which scenarios to run and the Board agreed to the test the following four scenarios: Scenario 1 will test volume targets of 185 million board feet (MMBF), 195 MMBF, and 205 MMBF and then for non-declining timber harvest for 30 years. Scenario 2 will test longer timber harvest rotations (now trees are harvested at about 30-40 years) to creating more even distribution of age classes throughout the forest (outside the Habitat Conservation Areas identified in the HCP) harvesting at 120 years in managed acres, andthen 150 years, time permitting. Scenario 3 will maximize volume with unlimited periodic variation. Scenario 4 – Maximize Net Present Value (NPV) maximized at 4% discount rate. After the computer runs these scenarios, the State Forest Division will report back to the Board in the early months of 2025 and the Board will discuss and decide next steps. A growing number of local and state agencies that rely on revenue from logging public forests are agreeing to scale back logging in exchange for money from carbon credits according to this article in the Oregon Capital Chronicle. Here is the 2025-27 Governor’s Recommended Budget for the Dept. of Forestry. See also the Wildfire section of this report below. Hanford Hanford Challenge is a watchdog nonprofit focused on transparency and cleanup process at Hanford nuclear site. Plans for the cleanup evolve. Land Use and Housing By Peggy Lynch The Oregon Housing Needs Analysis (OHNA) rules were adopted by the Land Conservation and Development Commission (LCDC) on Dec. 5th. Cities will now have housing targets to work toward in a range of styles, sizes and costs. The rules take effect on Jan. 1. A second set of rules will be developed in 2025, with adoption expected by Jan. 1 of 2026. Follow the work of the Oregon Housing Needs Analysis (OHNA) Rulemaking Committee on the department’s Housing Rulemaking webpage . And watch their meetings on the department’s YouTube channel. The Housing Accountability and Production Office (HAPO) managers were announced by Governor Kotek as she continues to focus on housing for all. Five new interagency agreements were signed by the Dept. of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) to increase cooperation and define their responsibilities. Here is the 2025-27 Governor’s Recommended Budget for DLCD. See also the Agriculture section of this report on Farm and Forest rules. See also the Housing Report in the Social Policy Legislative Report. Recycling The Environmental Quality Commission adopted rules to implement the Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act at its meeting on Nov. 22nd. The League supported SB 582 (2021).” Starting this summer, Oregonians across the state will begin to receive a standardized list of what can and cannot be recycled statewide, and owners and managers of apartment complexes and multi-unit housing will need to prepare to provide recycling for residents.” according to an article in the Oregon Capital Chronicle. Regional Solutions By Peggy Lynch Here is a great slide presentation that helps explain what the Regional Solutions program is. There are 11 regions and residents can sign up to receive agendas, meeting materials and even provide public comment on certain agenda items on their website . Toxics On Oct. 2nd, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to add 16 individual per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and 15 PFAS categories representing more than 100 individual PFAS to the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) . It would also designate them as chemicals of special concern so they must meet more robust reporting requirements, including reporting even for small concentrations. This proposed expansion of TRI would advance the commitments of the Biden-Harris Administration and EPA’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap to address the health and environmental impacts of PFAS by promoting pollution prevention, and informing the public about environmental releases of these so called “forever chemicals.” Transportation As the legislature struggles with paying for the work of the Oregon Dept. of Transportation (ODOT), it is reported that Oregon counties need $834 million a year to repair & maintain roads . Water By Peggy Lynch A member of the League has served on two rules advisory committees for the Water Resources Dept.: Place-Based Planning is now open for public comment through Jan. 15th. Best Practices in Community Engagement is also open for public comment through Jan. 15th. More information is on the linked websites. As we look to the 2025 legislative session, it is helpful to review the 2021-2024 investments . Legislators have created an Oregon Water Caucus to help guide water investments in the 2025 session. Sign-up to receive updates on their website . The Water Caucus is asking Oregonians to submit their current and future water investment needs via a statewide survey to help inform budget requests and strategic planning. In the time since the Statewide Integrated Water Resources Strategy was initially adopted in 2012, the state has been incrementally increasing its attention to critical water priorities, but the Legislature does not have a comprehensive inventory of water investment needs. In an effort to fill that gap, the Water Caucus invites water managers, users, stewards, advocates and members of the public to submit water investment needs by January 15 via a statewide survey . Oregonians can help the Water Caucus understand investment-ready water projects. In addition to physical projects, water investment needs can include data, planning, and other needs that benefit the environment, communities, and economy. The survey is for informational and planning purposes only and does not guarantee funding or replace other legislative processes. View the dashboard . Click here to view their press release. The League continues to monitor the actions related to the Lower Umatilla Basin Groundwater Management Area. An article in the Eastern Oregonian explains that “a management area refers to quality of the water while a critical area refers to water quantity, and the Lower Umatilla Basin is low in both measures .” Groups demand action : “Nitrate contamination has become a problem in rural communities and cities in many parts of the U.S., spurring a group of nearly two dozen nonprofits from several different states to band together to demand the EPA do more to regulate farms and sources of nitrate.” “In the last decade, groups have submitted five emergency petitions to the EPA to prompt federal intervention in nitrate contamination in drinking water in Iowa, Minnesota, Oregon, Washington and Wisconsin.” A federal lawsuit is now part of the discussion: “By suing some of the largest agricultural producers in the Lower Umatilla Basin, a group of local residents are trying to get the federal courts to do what they say state government has failed at for the past three decades: take decisive action against nitrate pollution.“ “Pearson vs. Port of Morrow”. League members may want to check the U. S. Drought Monitor , a map that is updated every Thursday. Here is a more complete website about drought in Oregon. The Governor declared Jefferson County as a drought emergency through Executive Order 24-08 , declared a drought in Lake County through Executive Order 24-26 , declared a drought in Wallowa County through Executive Order 24- 29 , declared a drought in Harney County through Executive Order 24- 30 , and directed state agencies to coordinate and prioritize assistance to the regions. We all need to pay attention to the potential for harmful algal blooms. “When in doubt, stay out.” V isit the Harmful Algae Bloom website or call the Oregon Public Health Division toll-free information line at 877-290-6767 to learn if an advisory has been issued or lifted for a specific water body. Wildfire By Carolyn Mayers There were a number of Interim Committee meetings held last week, some with an urgent focus on the record-breaking wildfire season. With a total of nearly 2 million acres (triple the ten-year average) burned, and $350 million in large fire costs, there was an urgency not seen among legislators since the devastating 2020 wildfire season, with emotions running high, and a sense of determination. “This is our new reality.” - a sentiment expressed repeatedly by lawmakers and agency officials alike, describing the wildfire crisis Oregon faces. On December 10, the Joint Emergency Board on Public Safety met and heard from Kyle Williams, Deputy Director of the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), and James Short, the agency’s Chief Financial Officer. Williams briefly recapped the 2024 wildfire season, and how completely overwhelming it was for all involved, including people from all over the State and beyond who assisted. The crux of the funding problem is that many, many vendors, private businesses, and others helped agencies fight wildfires this season, and the state agencies don’t have the funds to pay them for the work they did. While much of that is owed by, and will ultimately be recouped from the federal government, that repayment can take years. It is an untenable situation, threatening the solvency of the agency. Their request was for $82.1 million of General Fund for the remainder of the state's portion of net large fire costs, and $17 million of Other Funds limitation to continue processing 2024 fire season payments. This was followed by a presentation and funding request from Chief Mariana Ruiz-Temple of the Oregon Department of the State Fire Marshal (DSFM). Her agency’s request was for $5 million General Fund from the Emergency Fund “to maintain solvency”. The recommendation for the Legislative Finance Office added $26.5 million. Both items were deferred to the full committee and to be considered at the Special Session on December 12 called by the governor so the entire legislature can vote to fund an even larger request. At the same meeting, Doug Grafe, the Governor’s Military and Wildfire Advisor, along with Kyle Williams of ODF, and Chief Temple of DSFM, offered a progress report on the Wildfire Funding Workgroup, created at the end of the last session with charge to find durable, long-term, sustainable funding for wildfire in Oregon. Chief Temple shared that the nickname for the Workgroup is the “Fire 35”, and they have made progress, narrowing a list of 70 ideas at the outset down to 20 so far. All parties at the table expressed admiration for the hard work and collaborative effort members were making to find workable solutions that are fair and affordable. They expect to have a recommendation for the Legislature ready for the 2025 session. Details for this meeting, including LFO analyses, granular details on the allocations, and complete presentations, may be found here . The aforementioned parties (Williams of ODF, Ruiz-Temple of DSFM, and Graf from the Governor’s Office) repeated their 2024 Wildfire season report before the House Interim Committee on Emergency Management, General Government and Veterans, also on December 10. This report contained the most intricate details of all the reports given. Next, still on December 10, was another progress report on the Wildfire funding Workgroup before the House Interim Committee on Climate, Energy and Environment December 10, and yet another, nearly identical report given to Senate Interim Committee on Natural Resources and Wildfire, December 11. At this meeting, Chief Ruiz-Temple stated, “This is an all-Oregon problem.”, acknowledging the reality that any area of the State is now vulnerable to catastrophic wildfire events, including smoke, and that the risk continues to increase. The last meeting the League covered on December 10 was the Senate Interim Committee on Veterans, Emergency Management Federal and World Affairs. A presentation was given by Oregon Hazards Lab (OHAZ), out of the University of Oregon (Go DUCKS!). Of interest was the portion of their discussion of the growth of the use of, and effectiveness of, Public Fire Detection Cameras. Noting that the first camera for detecting hazards, such as wildfire, was deployed in 2018. Since then, funding from the 2022 short session started to increase momentum toward this technology, leading to 60 cameras in use around the State in 2024. That number is expected to increase to 75 in 2025. The role of these cameras in early detection and response cannot be overstated. The Joint Interim Special Committee on Wildfire Funding met December 11 and held a Public Hearing on LC 2 , the Legislative Concept which would become SB 5801 , the emergency wildfire funding bill, to go before the Special Session of the Legislature the following day. The bill was passed nearly unanimously, and has already been signed by the Governor, providing $218 million in funding to ODF and OSFM with most of the money to be paid to private contractors and local fire departments who provided significant assistance during the fire season. This article gives a concise overview of the evolution of the funding shortfall through the passage of the bill. Finally, this comprehensive piece gives a nearly minute by minute account of the proceedings, and includes some colorful commentary by legislators. Volunteers Needed What is your passion related to Natural Resources? You can help. Volunteers are needed. The long legislative session begins in January of 2025. Natural Resource Agency Boards and Commissions meet regularly year-round and need monitoring. If any area of natural resources is of interest to you, please contact Peggy Lynch, Natural Resources Coordinator, at peggylynchor@gmail.com . Training will be offered.

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Back to All Legislative Reports Social Policy Legislative Report - Week of 3/24 Social Policy Team Coordinator: Jean Pierce • After School and Summer Care: Katie Riley • Behavioral Health: Trish Garner • Criminal Justice/Juvenile Justice: Marge Easley / Sharron Noon • Education: Jean Pierce / Stephanie Engle • Equal Rights for All Ballot Measure: Jean Pierce Kyra Aguon • Gender-Related Concerns, Reproductive Health, Age Discrimination: Trish Garner • Gun Safety & Gun Issues, Rights for Incarcerated People: Marge Easley • Hate and Bias Crimes: Claudia Keith/ Becky Gladstone /rhyen enger • Health Care: Christa Danielsen • Housing: Debbie Aiona and Nancy Donovan Note: Education reports after January, 2024, are included in Social policy reports. Education reports prior to February, 2024, can be found HERE . Please see the Legislation Tracker for 2025 Social Policy bills . Jump to topic: After School and Summer Behavioral Health Civil Commitment Education Gun Policy Healthcare Housing Legislation Immigration Revenue After School and Summer By Katie Riley There are several bills that are dealing with afterschool and summer care. On Monday, March 17th, the League visited legislators to ask that HB 3039 and HB 2007 which both concern summer learning, include a differentiation of care during non-school time from summer school for both funding and data reporting purposes. The offices that were visited included those for Senators Lieber, Sollman, and Bonham and Representatives Ruiz and Sanchez. Those visits were selected due to their leadership positions on party caucuses and/or committees that determine budget allocations. We also talked to legislative sponsoring offices for SB 876 (Sen. Dick Anderson) and HB 3162 (Rep. Jami Cate), both of whom propose funding for after school care. SB 876 has passed out of committee and will need to be voted on by the Senate before it can be sent to the House for consideration. HB 3162 has not received a committee hearing so it may not progress further. The House Committee on Education was scheduled to have a hearing on Wednesday, March 19th on HB 3039 and HB 2007 but only HB 2007 had a hearing. Both bills have had amendments submitted which help to improve the focus on expanded learning to include the possibility of after school care during the summer. Senator Sollman and Representative Ruiz who authored HB 2007 with Representative Fahey testified. Time was limited so only a few community members were able to testify and most supported the bill with the new amendment submitted by Representative Susan McLain. LWVOR submitted written testimony for both bills encouraging further amendment to differentiate care during after school hours from summer school. Without separate data, it will be impossible to determine the impact of each component. It is expected that the HB 3039 and HB 2007 may be combined. Since HB 3039 is one of the Governor's priority bills, legislators are working hard to address problems before the bill is passed out of committee. A work session is scheduled in the committee for Monday, March 24th. Behavioral Health By Stephanie Aller The House Higher Education and Workforce Development Committee held a public hearing and work session on HB3129 (Higher Education Behavioral Health Workforce Expansion Fund.) LWVOR submitted testimony earlier in support of this bill. The committee adopted an amendment to the bill which includes a minimum service requirement of at least two years for student recipients. It also increased the amount appropriated for the bill from $17,900,000 to $25,700,000. The bill passed the committee on March 18 and was referred to the Joint Committee on Ways and Means. Civil Commitment By Patricia Garner SB 171 / HB 2467 : A significant amendment to these bills is anticipated to be filed by the Forensic Behavioral Health Work Group chaired by Representative Jason Kropf. The primary proponent of the legislation is the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Oregon (NAMI). Current law provides that a person can be civilly committed if that person is dangerous to self or others, but importantly, dangerousness to self or others is not defined. This ambiguity has created significant barriers to civil commitment. This LC attempts to remedy this ambiguity. It provides that dangerousness to self / others takes place when a person is engaged in or is threatening to engage in behavior that resulted in or was likely to result in physical harm to self /another, and it is reasonably foreseeable that due to their mental disorder, they will engage in behavior that presents a risk of harm to self/others in the near future. Importantly, “near future” is specifically defined as a period of time that is reasonably foreseeable, but no more than 14 days. “Physical harm” is also clarified as physical contact that results in injury to another, and serious physical harm places a person at a “non-speculative” risk of death, impairment of health or bodily organs, including impairment or deterioration of brain function due to untreated psychiatric conditions. In deciding whether someone should be committed, the court is also specifically authorized to consider whether that person has insight into their mental illness and their ability to follow a treatment plan. This latter factor relates to anosognosia, a neurological condition where a person is unable to recognize her or his own illness, which is common in diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, traumatic brain injuries, strokes, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. (See Judiciary Committee Hearing at 54:15 minutes). The prevalence of anosognosia in mental illness means that many people are not just avoiding treatment, but rather they do not apprehend they even have a mental illness. The LC also specifies several factors that can be used when a person is subject to commitment because of danger to self. Some of these factors include recent overt acts attempting to cause serious physical harm to self, recent threats to inflict this harm, the context of such acts or threats, and any past behavior resulting from a mental disorder that caused physical harm to self and past patterns of deterioration that contributed to prior involuntary hospitalizations. Dangerousness to others generally follows this format, but also recent destructive acts against property that were reasonably likely to place others at risk of injury HB 2015 – Oregon Residential Services Legislation This bill is currently a placeholder but should shortly be amended to require the Oregon Health Authority to study and make recommendations (9-25 and 9-26) to the Legislature about a range of issues related to residential treatment facilities and homes. The areas for review are detailed. For example, they include considerations that staffing costs for a facility should not change when the acuity of an individual changes, the workforce needs to be paid a professional wage, whether and how to support discharge from residential levels of placement, and how to create one license and set of rules for Transition Aged Youth Residential Treatment Homes that serve people 17.5 to 24 years of age. Education By Jean Pierce Recently, the Trump administration sent a “ Dear Colleague ” letter pressuring educational administrators not to “embrace pervasive and repugnant race-based preferences”. This was accompanied by a FAQ sheet. In addition, there is an Executive Order threatening cuts to essential programs if schools honor standards of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). So on March 13th Oregon’s Attorney General, Dan Rayfield, joined 14 other state attorneys general to provide guidance regarding what public schools can do to honor the law. They note that “nothing in the ‘Dear Colleague’ letter or FAQ changes existing law and well-established legal principles that encourage—and even require—schools to promote educational opportunity for students of all backgrounds.” This week the administration issued an Executive Order closing the Department of Education. While the administration insists that it will continue funding student loans, Pell Grants, funding for special needs students, and competitive grantmaking, still no plan has been suggested for how that might happen. The Education Law Center has a helpful tool showing how much federal funding for K-12 education each state is receiving for FY 2025. The total for Oregon is more than $433 Million. This includes close to $200 million for Title 1 (funding for educating low income students) and more than $170 million for IDEA (funding education of students with special needs). Legislation which advanced this week SB 1098 , which prohibits discrimination when selecting or retaining school library materials, textbooks or instructional materials or when developing and implementing a curriculum was passed unamended with a partisan vote, by the Senate Education Committee. LWVOR submitted testimony for the bill. HB2997 , which directs the Higher Education Coordinating Commission to establish a grant program to expand access to populations which are under-represented in colleges and universities, was passed with a partisan vote by the House Committee on Higher Education and Workforce Development with an amendment to appropriate $5 million. LWVOR submitted testimony for the bill. HB 3182 , which directs the Higher Education Coordinating Commission to award grants to nonprofit organizations providing affordable housing support to low-income students. was passed 6 to 1 with minor amendments by the House Committee on Higher Education and Workforce Development. LWVOR submitted testimony for the bill. HB 3183 , which would appropriate money to the Higher Education Coordinating Commission to provide no-cost, low-cost textbooks and course materials across Oregon’s colleges and universities, was passed 6 to 1 by the House Committee on Higher Education and Workforce Development with an amendment lowering the amount appropriated from $4.5 million to $2 million. LWVOR submitted testimony for the bill. Gun Policy By Marge Easley Six gun policy bills are now making their way through the legislative process. HB 3075 , heard on March 17 in House Judiciary, contains details for implementing the firearm permitting requirement in Measure 114 (2022). The committee received over 1000 pieces of testimony on the bill, including testimony from the League, and emotions ran high during oral testimony in the packed hearing room. A work session is scheduled for April 2. HB 3076 , heard on March 20 in House Judiciary, establishes a gun dealer licensing program in Oregon. League testimony stated that a state system is needed to curtail illegal guns that are used in crimes, often obtained through straw purchases and gun shop thefts. Oversight is currently under the direction of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), but the agency is woefully underfunded, and inspections are a rarity. A work session on the bill is scheduled for April 2. The League is also following four additional gun policy bills that are scheduled for an omnibus hearing and possible work sessions in the Senate Judiciary on April 7. SB 696 bans rapid-fire devices that convert semi-automatic weapons to the nearly full-automatic. SB 697 raises the age to purchase military-style weapons like AR-15s from age 18 to 21. SB 698 expands the types of public buildings that are authorized to ban firearms, even for holders of concealed handgun licenses (CHLs). SB 429 creates a 72-hour waiting period for the purchase of a firearm. Healthcare By Christa Danielson HB 2010-A : The League submitted testimon y for this bill, which extends the funding for the state portion of Medicaid. The bill has passed both chambers and has been signed by the President of the Senate as well as the Speaker of the House. It will be heading to the Governor’s desk for consideration of signature. Housing By Nancy Donovan and Debbie Aiona The Senate Committee on Housing and Development will hold another public hearing on SB 722 on March 26. The bill would prohibit residential landlords from software and occupancy control, and would apply rent caps for younger properties. This bill would help prevent displacement by prohibiting landlords of multifamily housing from using Artificial Intelligence (AI) software to inflate rents or occupancy rates. This unethical practice is the subject of national attention . Attorneys General in eight states, including Oregon, have joined the Justice Department in an antitrust suit to disallow this method of sharing and aligning non-public information to drive up rents. The bill also would reduce the current 15-year exemption for new construction from our statewide rent stabilization statute down to 7 years. This change would provide reasonable rent stabilization protection for an additional 40,000 housing units and between 80,000 to 100,000 Oregonians. Oregon renters are the 6th most cost burdened in the nation, and our eviction crisis is growing with more than 27,000 cases filed last year. Eighty-eight percent of evictions are because tenants cannot afford Oregon’s high rents. Studies show that rent stabilization policies help keep tenants stably housed and reduce evictions. The League provided testimony in support of SB 722 . The House Committee on Housing and Homelessness will hold a public hearing on HB 2964 on March 26. It would direct Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) to provide grants and loans for predevelopment costs for new affordable housing. OHCS would have the responsibility to administer a grant and loan program for predevelopment costs for new affordable housing for low-income households to rent or own. OHCS would integrate this program into its existing Predevelopment Loan Fund with monies from the General Fund. Properties would be developed with affordability restrictions to ensure that they remain affordable. Oregon's population growth has outpaced housing construction leading to a severe shortage of affordable properties. This bill will give our state’s lower income households an opportunity to live in stable, new and affordable housing. The League provided testimony in support o f HB 2964 . Immigration By Becky Gladstone and Claudia Keith Bill # Description Policy Committee Status $* Chief Sponsors + Comments SB 149 Immigration Study SCJ PH & WS 4/2 Y Sen Jama DHS SB 599A Immigration status: Discrimination in Real Estate transactions Floor Floor vote 3/24 Sen Campos Carry over SB 611 Food for All Oregonians - for undocumented SC HS - JWM PH 3/25, Work Sess 4/1 Y Sen Campos Rep Ruiz SB 703 A bipartisan immigration status update funding bill SCJ PH 3/19 WS 3/26 6 Sen Reynolds, Reps Neron, Ruiz, Smith G Testimony SB 1119 To prohibit employers from engaging in unfair immigration-related practices. SCLAB PH 3/27, Work Sess 4/1 Sen. Taylor SB 1140 Prohibits requirements that employees speak only English in workplace unless business necessity SCLAB PH 3/27, Work Sess 4/1 Sen. Taylor HB 2548 Agricultural Workforce Labor Standards Board. HC LWPS PH 3/12 WS 4/2 Reps Valderrama, Nelson , Munoz League Testimony HB 2976 Funding for interpretation of indigenous languages. HC ECHS wk Ses 3/25 Rep Hartman HB2788 Funding to nonprofits to assist w lawful permanent resident status/legal aid - HC ECHS - JWM dead Reps Neron, Ruiz, Sen Reynolds * likely end of session Reconcilation Bill HB 2586 Nonresident tuition exemption for asylum seekers. Sen Ed 3/12 Reps Hudson, Sen Campos House vote 36 v 18 HB 2543 Funds for universal representation and gives funds to Oregon State Bar for legal immigration matters HC Jud ? 15 Rep Valderrama, Sen Manning Jr, Reps Walters, Andersen, McLain, Sen Campos DAS - see sb 703 HB3193 Farm Worker Relief Fund HC LWPS Wk Ses 3/24 10 Rep Marsh, Sen Pham, Rep Valderrama OHA HB 5002 Oregon Worker Relief Fund JCWM-GG ? 7 Das We are considering joining a coalition that has recently formed to support a number of 2025 bills affecting many agricultural workers and other immigrants. There may be League alerts on this topic later this session. (refer to Immigration LR) Revenue By Peggy Lynch The Co-Chairs of Ways and Means provided their framework for the 2025-27 state budget. Note on the last page the potential effect of federal budget cuts. This Oregonlive article suggests some of the most painful cuts. The Joint Committee On Ways and Means Subcommittee On Capital Construction met on March 21st and received a report from the State Treasurer, including the 2025 bonding capacity: “$2.22 Billion Issuance For Each Biennium, Or $1.11 Billion Annually” . We note that this capacity is based on the Sept. 2024 Revenue Forecast. Also, there is a recommendation that bond sales be scattered throughout the biennium instead of waiting until the last quarter of the biennium. However, that means that the cost of debt service will have to be calculated into the 2025-27 budget. But scattering the sales can also provide the legislature with a pullback of those sales should the economy not support the ability of the state to back those bonds. The Dept. of Administrative Services (DAS) on behalf of the Governor reported on the Governor’s bond requests in her 2025-27 budget. A complete list is available here . Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Climate Emergency , Governance , and Natural Resources report sections.

Climate Emergency Read Our 2025 Priorities Here 2026 Legislative Priorit y ADDRESS THE CLIMATE EMERGENCY by supporting 2017-2025 Carbon/Climate Executive Orders, net zero greenhouse gas emissions before 2050 while ensuring environmental justice with a just transition for workers and impacted communities. Positions US League Climate Position: The League believes that climate change is a serious threat facing our nation and our planet. The League believes that an interrelated approach to combating climate change — including through energy conservation, air pollution controls, building resilience, and promotion of renewable resources — is necessary to protect public health and defend the overall integrity of the global ecosystem. The League supports climate goals and policies that are consistent with the best-available climate science and that will ensure a stable climate system for future generations. Individuals, communities, and governments must continue to address this issue, while considering the ramifications of their decision at all levels — local, state, regional, national, and global. See also Natural Resources Positions: Issues for Action (LWVOR): Air Quality Off Shore and Coastal Management Energy Conservation Nuclear Energy Forests Hard Rock Mining Land Use Parks Pesticides and Other Biocides Seismic Risks Water Policy – Quality and Quantity Water Resources of the Columbia River and the Columbia River Task Force Impact on Issues (US League) Resource Management page 107 Environmental Protection and Pollution Control – page 110 Transfer of Federal Public Lands – page 124 Climate Change - page 125 Public Participation – page 128 Federal Agriculture Policies – page 130 Previous Legislative Reports Next

Back to All Legislative Reports Natural Resources Legislative Report - Week of 2/19 Natural Resources Team Coordinator: Peggy Lynch Coastal Issues: Christine Moffitt, Peggy Lynch Columbia River Treaty: Philip Thor Dept. of Geology and Mineral Industries: Joan Fryxell Emergency Management: Rebecca Gladstone Forestry: Josie Koehne Elliott State Research Forest: Peggy Lynch Northwest Energy Coalition: Robin Tokmakian Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife: Melanie Moon Oregon Health Authority Drinking Water Advisory Committee: Sandra Bishop Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board: Water: Peggy Lynch Wildfire: Carolyn Mayers Ways and Means Natural Resource Budgets/Revenue: Peggy Lynch Jump to a topic: Budgets/Revenue Climate Coastal Issues Dept. of State Lands (DSL) Elliott State Research Forest Forestry Land Use and Housing Reduce/Recycle Water Wildfire Volunteers Needed By Peggy Lynch, Natural Resources Coordinator, and Team Budgets/Revenue By Peggy Lynch SB 5701 is the 2024 omnibus budget bill. It is currently populated with the items approved during the November and January Legislative Days. Budget requests are being considered as the Co-Chairs determine the money to be spent or saved. It has been reported that the cost for behavior health and community safety will be between $180 and $235 million. The main housing bills are expected to cost about $350 million. Legislators have shared that there may be another $1-2 billion funding requests to consider, but not enough revenue to allocate. Look for bills sent to Ways and Means (W&Ms) to be considered in their Subcommittees ONLY when they have been approved by the W&Ms Co-Chairs and Senate and House Leadership. We should see those bills posted to those Subcommittees this week and next. Many bills sent to W&Ms will still be there at the end of session. HB 5201 and HB 5202 are the bonding bills. Like General Fund requests, there are more bonding requests than money to allocate. The Feb. 16 public hearing in W&Ms Capital Construction was evidence of that fact. Like the budget bill, these bills will reflect changes and possible additions to the 2025 approved bonds. Bonding capacity remains the same: $65.8 million in remaining general obligation bond capacity and $27.4 million in remaining lottery bond capacity for the 2023-25 biennium. SB 5702 will be populated with new or increased fees adopted by state agencies since the 2025 session. HB 5203 and HB 5204 were also filed. One will be the “program change bill” to address miscellaneous changes to agency programs. The other is held in case it is needed. It may be used for containing revenue requests due to Measure 110 changes. SB 1562 with the -1 amendment has passed Senate Finance and Revenue. It increases the limit for making contributions into the Rainy Day Fund from 7.5% to 12.5% of General Fund revenue but leaves the contribution cap unchanged at 1% of General Fund appropriations. The Joint W&Ms met Feb. 23rd and approved a list of grant requests and reports. The agency budget process for 2025-27 is beginning. Look for presentations to agency Boards and Commissions soon. Quarterly revenue forecasts will be provided on May 29 and August 28. Then the November 20 th forecast will be the basis of the Governor’s Recommended Budget to be presented on December 1 st . One concern is that mediocre returns and rapidly inflating payrolls are causing actuaries to predict that PERS will need about $6 billion in 2025-2027, hundreds of millions more than in the current biennium. Personal income taxpayers can determine their kicker amount using a “What’s My Kicker?” calculator on Revenue Online . Climate By Claudia Keith and Team See the Climate Emergency section for overlaps. We encourage you to read both sections. Coastal Issues By Christine Moffitt/Peggy Lynch HB 4080 A was moved to Ways and Means on Feb. 14 th related to offshore wind energy. Important to the League will be financing the public engagement in the Dept. of Land Conservation and Development’s (DLCD) Coastal Program as required by the bill. The League provided comments on HB 4080-1 and continues to advocate for funding for public engagement and staff at DLCD. On Feb. 22nd, “the Oregon Legislative Coastal Caucus has issued a resounding call for the federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) to address significant concerns before advancing offshore wind projects off the coast of Oregon. In a letter to BOEM Director Heidi Klein, the Caucus expressed extreme disappointment with BOEM's decision to finalize two Wind Energy Areas (WEAs) without adequately addressing the concerns of coastal communities, industries, and tribes.” The League signed on to a letter in support of HB 4132 , Marine Reserves. Currently there is a fiscal request of just under $900 M for this biennium. The bill is scheduled for a Feb. 26 th work session in W&Ms Natural Resources. Oregon’s Coos Bay Estuary is reported to be a “blue carbon”source that will help Oregon address climate change. That is no news to our local Coos Bay League who continue to advocate for this largest of Oregon’s estuaries. Dept. of State Lands (DSL) By Peggy Lynch The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is working with DSL to identify In Lieu lands (part of the 1,400 acres of lands owed the State of Oregon on statehood that have not yet been allotted to Oregon). Click here to view the BLM Proposed Classification Decision , and a public notice that two forestland properties in Linn County that have been identified to meet the criteria for some of those In Lieu lands. Learn more and provide public comment through April 9, 2024. Elliott State Research Forest (ESRF) By Peggy Lynch The League supports the $4.1 million that had been set aside in 2023 for the former proposed separate ESRF state agency to instead be added to the DSL budget as the managers of the ESRF. The League encourages you to listen to the one-hour Feb. 19 th Ways and Means Natural Resources Subcommittee meeting where a diverse set of groups provided testimony. LWVOR has been engaged in the Elliott discussion since 2014. Work is continuing on eventual adoption of a Habitat Conservation Plan and a Forest Management Plan for the forest. Visit DSL's Elliott webpage to learn more . A recommendation with structural governance may be before the State Land Board on April 9. If approved, look for appointments to the new ESRF Board at their June 11 tth meeting. Forestry (ODF) The Oregon Dept. of Forestry is holding the last of their community conversations on February 28th as they do strategic planning. The public is encouraged to participate. On Feb. 23 rd the Board of Forestry had a special meeting on Post-Disturbance Harvest Rulemaking. A number of bills this session are around funding wildfire. For information on the various bills, see the Wildfire section of this report below. Land Use & Housing By Peggy Lynch The major housing bills, SB 1537 and SB 1530 A , have been scheduled for a Work Session in the Ways and Means SubCommittee on Transportation and Economic Development. We understand that there may be some “technical fixes” in SB 1537 in W&Mw. A news release by the Senate President explains the elements of both bills. Also on the agenda is League supported HB 4134 -A that includes a list of infrastructure projects in small towns around Oregon to be funded with a promise of new housing. We may see elements of HB 4128 A . The League is concerned that HB 4128A lists monetary grant awards to certain cities for water infrastructure without clarity on what projects will be funded. We are hopeful that, if some of those projects are added to HB 4134, the criteria in HB 4134 will apply. The Citizen Involvement Advisory Committee is recruiting a new member from Oregon’s Third Congressional District. Applications are due by March 18, 9 a.m. Follow the Oregon Housing Needs Analysis (OHNA) Rulemaking Committee on the Housing Rulemaking webpage . And watch their meetings on the department’s YouTube channel. See also the Housing Report in the Social Policy section of this Legislative Report. Reduce/Recycle By Camille Freitag The League weighed in again this year on a Right to Repair bill, SB 1596 . We joined others in support of the bill. The bill passed the Senate Chamber on Feb. 19 th and is headed to the House Committee on Business and Labor for a Feb. 26 th Public Hearing and Work Session. DEQ is conducting rulemaking to clarify and implement HB 3220 (2023) , which updates and makes necessary changes to the statewide electronics recycling program, Oregon E-Cycles. DEQ is holding its first meeting for the Oregon E-Cycles Rulemaking Advisory Committee on March 7 at 9 a.m. – noon. To attend this virtual meeting, please pre-register via the Zoom online platform . To learn more about this rulemaking and the advisory committee please visit the Oregon E-Cycles rulemaking web page . Water By Peggy Lynch The amended HB 4128 sent to Ways and Means includes a $3 million allocation to be added to the Water Well Abandonment, Repair and Replacement Fund . The League was engaged in helping create this fund in 2021 and supports this allocation. On Feb. 27, there will be an Informational Meeting on “Needs of Very Small Community Water Systems”. The League continues to advocate for clean, safe drinking water for all and the issues of trained staff as well as cost of repairs and upgrades are very real. On Feb. 22, in the House Committee on Housing and Homelessness, Rep. Hartman presented concepts to be considered in 2025, including a number of water related programs, many of which the League has advocated for in the past. We hope Leaguers will engage with the Oregon Water Resources Dept. as they consider changes to Oregon’s groundwater rules. This slide deck was presented at their last rules advisory committee meeting. A written public comment period will be open March 1 st - June 1 st . Regional meetings will be held April 4 th in Bend, April 18 in La Grande, May 16 in Central Point and May 21 st in Salem, with the Salem meeting available on the internet as well as in person. The Department of State Lands is creating a new statewide program (Abandoned and Derelict Vessels) to address hazardous vessels across Oregon. They want your feedback on the proposed program framework. Share your input by March 8th! See the proposed framework for the ADV program here (PDF). The League has supported creation of this program and the funding needed to remove these hazardous vessels from Oregon’s waterways. OWRD anticipates releasing a draft of the updated Integrated Water Resources Strategy (IWRS) for public review and comment starting March 5th. An updated draft is then anticipated to be available for a second public comment opportunity in May. The Oregon Water Resources Commission will hear public testimony and consider adoption of the 2024 IWRS at their September meeting. For more information about this process, please visit the IWRS page . The League hopes members will engage since we were actively engaged in the original legislation and in the first two IWRS documents. We understand this new draft takes an entirely new slant from the current IWRS. It will be important that the original documents not be invalidated but instead enhanced by this proposal. We all need to pay attention to the potential for harmful algal blooms. “When in doubt, stay out.” Visit the Harmful Algae Bloom website or call the Oregon Public Health Division toll-free information line at 877-290-6767 to learn if an advisory has been issued or lifted for a specific water body. League members may want to check the U. S. Drought Monitor , a map that is updated every Thursday. Governor Kotek has signed drought declarations under ORS 536 for the counties of Crook, Jefferson, Grant, Deschutes, Wasco, Harney, Sherman, Lake, Jackson, Gilliam, Douglas, Lincoln and Morrow counties. Wildfire By Carolyn Mayers The week began with some welcome progress on at least one of the wildfire funding bills the League has been following. On February 19, the House Climate and Energy met and voted to send Rep Marsh’s omnibus wildfire bill, HB 4016-1 , on home hardening and prescribed fire liability, to the floor with a do-pass recommendation. The amendment removed the portion of this bill set up to fund wildfire smoke programs, eliminating the need to refer the bill to Ways and Means. It subsequently passed the House on Feb 21, referred to Senate Natural Resources and Wildfire, for Feb. 27 public hearing and Feb. 29 th work session. Next up was a Sen Vets, etc. mtg on emergency preparedness. Chief Mariana Ruiz-Temple, Dept of the State Fire Marshal (DFSM) gave a “State of the State” presentation on Oregon fire service and challenges faced. She referred to the fire service “crisis”. Among challenges are a decreasing volunteer pool, recruitment and retention problems, increasing homeless impacts including tent fires, growing wildfire event intensity and size, and firefighter behavioral health issues due to trauma and stress associated with job demands. A KTVZ study report recently released by Oregon State University reinforces current and future increase in wildfires, both geographically and in intensity, trending towards more fire on the “Westside”, west of the Cascades. The bad news is these fires have the capacity to become mega-fires due to the very factors that make them less frequent - seasonal moisture combined with lots of vegetative growth, which accumulates fuel for fires. Chief Ruiz-Temple was followed by the Row River Fire Response. This is a Rural Fire District established by community members in response to having NO fire protection DURING a fire that occurred in a neighborhood that burned 5 homes. They believe their successful public/private partnership could serve as a model for other communities around Oregon. A slide show describing their inspiring journey is worth a look, revealing a fire protection system gap. The League is following two bills, SB 1520 -2 and HB 4007 , relating to an income tax subtraction for settlements or judgments received by wildfire damage victims. Subtle differences between the two bills are being worked out in Sen Finance and Revenue and House Revenue. The impetus is that legal settlement and judgment proceeds are taxed at 70%, with the remaining 30% also being taxable income, and legal fees paid are not deductible. This results in homeowners hoping to rebuild being left with a small fraction of the initial reward, sometimes a little as 15%. California has passed similar legislation. To complicate things, Federal tax law in this area is also under review and the outcome will affect the final details of how these bills are implemented, since there is some overlap. On February 22, Sen Finance and Revenue adopted the SB 1520-2 amendment, which fixed some problems identified during public testimony, and sent it to the floor with a do pass recommendation. At this meeting, a SB 1545 work session was held, which would allow counties to offer a property tax break (using assessment from ’20-21) to owners of destroyed homes rebuilt after the 2020 wildfires. A Feb 26 work session is scheduled before the same Committee. The League has also observed some limited movement on the various wildfire funding bills. A good summary of their various stages may be found in this excellent Capital Chronicle Feb 22nd overview . Rep Evans’ public safety and wildfire funding bills, HJR 201 and HB 4075 , are “effectively dead”, according to the article, having received over 1,400 written comments, 99% opposing. Sen Golden’s wildfire funding bill, SB 1593 with amendment , would fund a study of the use of a severance tax to fund wildfire programs. (A severance tax applies to the value of trees harvested. A forest products harvest tax which Oregon currently has is levied on the volume of harvested timber.) That bill has a Feb. 28 th public hearing before Sen Finance and Revenue. The League will provide testimony in support of the proposed amendment. Sen. Steiner is also scheduled to share “Funding Wildfire Mitigation and Suppression” information. We can assume she will be discussing her HB 4133-3 bill, still in House Revenue. Last but certainly not least, the latest version of Rep Marsh and Sen Steiner’s bill, HB 4133 -3, was heard on Feb 22 before House Revenue. Sen Steiner and Doug Grafe, the Governor’s Wildfire and Military Advisor explained explained several bill changes. The first change relates to a split of funds raised by the measure between the General Fund and the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Large Fire Fund, which this bill would establish. The second, in a needed attempt to broaden the conversation, directs ODF and DSFM to work with stakeholders to develop options for sustainable funding for wildfire suppression and mitigation. It was noted that Rep Marsh and SenGolden, and various fire agencies, would most likely be at the table. This is, at least in part, in response to opposition/reservations voiced by several State firefighter organizations. Toward that end, Senator Steiner submitted this letter to presiding officers. The final change relates to a land reclassification moratorium which affects the rates landowners pay for fire protection while details continue to be ironed out. Ironically, several members of the Committee expressed their difficulties in understanding this complex bill which was, in theory, designed to make the wildfire funding model less complex. A Work Session was scheduled for February 26 before this Committee. The League is so concerned with wildfire funding needs that we signed on to a budget request for additional monies to the State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Dept. of Forestry to address Community Wildfire Protection and Landscape Resiliency. On Feb 28, there will be an informational meeting on the Wildfire Hazard Map in the House Committee on Climate, Energy and Environment. Volunteers Needed What is your passion related to Natural Resources? You can help. Volunteers are needed. The long legislative session begins in January of 2025. Natural Resource Agency Boards and Commissions meet regularly year-round and need monitoring. If any area of natural resources is of interest to you, please contact Peggy Lynch, Natural Resources Coordinator, at peggylynchor@gmail.com . Training will be offered.

Back to All Legislative Reports Social Policy Social Policy Team Coordinator: Jean Pierce • After School and Summer Care: Katie Riley • Behavioral Health: Trish Garner • Criminal Justice/Juvenile Justice: Marge Easley / Sharron Noon • Education: Jean Pierce / Stephanie Engle • Equal Rights for All Ballot Measure: Jean Pierce Kyra Aguon • Gender-Related Concerns, Reproductive Health, Age Discrimination: Trish Garner • Gun Safety & Gun Issues, Rights for Incarcerated People: Marge Easley • Hate and Bias Crimes: Claudia Keith/ Becky Gladstone /rhyen enger • Health Care: Christa Danielsen • Housing: Debbie Aiona and Nancy Donovan Note: Education reports after January, 2024, are included in Social policy reports. Education reports prior to February, 2024, can be found HERE . Please see the Legislation Tracker for 2025 Social Policy bills . Jump to topic: After School and Summer Age-Related Issues Behavioral Health Education Gun Policy Housing Legislation Immigration Public Safety After School and Summer By Katie Riley This past week was extremely busy. HB 3039 which would have appropriated moneys from the General Fund to the Department of Education and would have required the Department of Education to study methods for increasing the availability of summer and after-school academic and enrichment programs was dropped. HB 2007 which would modify requirements for the summer learning program to emphasize literacy and accountability was amended to HB 2007-A and heard in the House Committee on Education, the Senate Committee on Education, and the Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Education where it was passed. The accompanying funding bill HB 5047-A was also heard at the same time and passed. HB 5047 provides $35 million for summer 2025 and $47 million in 2026 and 27. It also provides for a special summer learning grant fund outside the general fund; thereby, establishing a sustainable funding source that allows for advance planning. The Oregonian published an article about the swift action on these bills that is a good description of the process. It is disappointing that the funding that has been passed for HB 2007 will be tightly focused on literacy and testing and will not go to all districts; however, it is encouraging that funding will be provided for summer learning, the funding is being established in a separate fund outside the general fund, and it will be provided over three years to allow for advance planning. It is hoped this bill will set a precedent for future allocations that will include specific funding for after school hours care with enriched programming that allows more opportunity for children to enjoy their time outside regular school hours while being inspired to pursue academics toward interesting career paths. HB 3941 which was introduced to allocate $4,990,000 for a grant program to establish up to 5 community schools at $170,000 per year in matching funds was scheduled for a a work session on April 7th but it was removed from the schedule. It is now dead. SB 1127 which would have provided for grants to develop and provide educational activities during recess, lunch or after school for Title I elementary schools was voted down in the Senate Committee on Education. It was noted that school foundations might be a better source of funding for these activities. It appears that some legislators are introducing amendments to bills to clarify that bills cannot “discriminate” against certain groups of people. They appear to be motivated by the federal administration’s desire to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts that prioritize groups that have been underserved. Since the bills are largely neutral and not specifying DEI activities, most of the amendments were not passed. However, HB 3008 was amended to include wording that allocations “will be based on merit and without discrimination or preferential treatment on the basis of race or ethnicity.” The bill would allocate funds to different agencies for investment in the child care workforce, including $9 million from the General Fund to the Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) in the 2025-27 biennium for distribution to Portland State University to fund recruitment and retention payments to childcare providers working in Oregon through the Oregon Center for Career Development in Childhood Care and Education. The measure also includes a one-time appropriation of $6.5 million from the General Fund to the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) in the 2025-27 biennium for distribution to childcare workforce training programs. The bill has been referred to the Joint Committee on Ways and Means. HB 3011 , which establishes the Early Childhood Education Workforce Development Fund and appropriates moneys for community colleges and public universities in this state that offer early childhood education degrees and certificates had a work session on April 8th in the House Committee on Higher Education and Workforce Development. Testimon y was submitted earlier in support of this bill. The bill received a Do Pass recommendation for a House floor vote. HB 2593 which would direct the Department of Early Learning and Care to study the impact on student parents and working parents who are on the Employment Related Day Care subsidy waitlist (currently over 10,000) had a work session on April 8th in the House Committee on Early Childhood and Human Services. It was sent to the Joint Committee on Ways and Means. Age-Related Issues By Patricia Garner HB 3497A Amendment 1 requires 14-plus State agencies to consider the effects of their actions on older adult populations. It passed unanimously (with one excusal) in the House Committee on Early Childhood and Human Services and was referred to Ways & Means. The portion of HB 3187A that authorized employees to present evidence of disparities in salary, length of service and pension/retirement status in order to prove a workplace age discrimination case has been eliminated, leaving only the language that prohibited employers from asking about an applicant’s date of birth or graduation date, unless a conditional offer of employment had already been made or age was an intrinsic feature of the job (i.e, a bartender). On a party line vote, the House Labor and Work Standards Committee passed the amended bill (HB 3187 A – Amendment 1) with a “do pass” recommendation. Behavioral Health By Stephanie Aller and Patricia Garner On April 8th the House Behavioral Health and Health Care Committee unanimously passed HB 2015 Amendment 3 with a “do pass” recommendation and a referral to Ways & Means. This wide-ranging bill addresses regulatory barriers in building and operating secure residential treatment facilities (SRTF’s), residential treatment facilities (RTF’s) and residential treatment homes (RTH’s) in Oregon. It directs the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) to study nursing requirements in SRTF’s and to assess alternative methodologies for reimbursement. At the present time federal reimbursement rates are much higher when a bed is actually occupied by a patient. This seems to make sense until one appreciates that there are situations where, for example, a temporary leave is appropriate to foster a good placement. The current reimbursement system incentivizes these facilities to keep individuals continually and for longer periods than might be necessary. HB 2467 Amendment 3 passed unanimously in the House Judiciary Committee with a do pass recommendation and a referral to Ways and Means. The last-minute referral to Ways and Means was unexpected and may reflect some opposition that hasn’t surfaced to date. If it passes, HB 2467 Amendment 3 will likely have a significant state-wide impact because it clarifies the standard by which someone is considered sufficiently dangerous to self and others such that civil commitment is warranted. HB 2480 Amendment 1 passed unanimously without recommendation in the House Judiciary Committee and was referred to the Joint Committee Addiction and Community Safety Response. The bill itemizes factors that courts may consider when determining whether a defendant is mentally competent to proceed, or “aid and assist” in their defense, in a criminal proceeding. These include, for example, prior evaluations, evidence of a prior diagnosis by a certified evaluator or qualified mental health practitioner, prior commitments, and/or the defendant’s conduct as observed in court. HB 2480 Amendment 1 also authorizes the Oregon Public Guardian and Conservator to provide guardianship services for criminals whose criminal proceedings have been suspended because of a lack of mental competency. A temporary guardian may also be appointed. Two bills ( HB 3835 - Amendment 1 and 2 and SB 1113 ) were filed at the beginning of the Session. Both addressed restraints and seclusions in schools and health care agencies, as well as out-of-state placements. Senator Sara Gelser Blouin sponsored the Senate bill. Representative Nosse is the Chief Sponsor for HB 3835. The Senate bill used a more restrictive standard in allowing restraints and seclusions, but a scheduled Work Session was removed from the Senate Human Services Committee’s calendar and so will not be proceeding. The House Committee on Early Childhood and Human Services unanimously adopted HB 3835 Amendment 3 , with two excused, but without recommendation as to passage. It was referred to Rules. At the conclusion of the hearing the Committee Chair Representative Nosse gave a strong statement that this bill was not being sent to Rules to die but that were still some items to discuss and he anticipated the bill’s passage. HB 2202 Amendment 1 (coordinated care organizations) passed the House Committee on Behavioral Health and Health Care Committee with a do pass recommendation and a referral to Ways and Means. The vote was on party lines, with Democrats voting in favor. The bill looks like a work study bill and the OHA is directed to report its progress to the legislature by September 15, 2026, but there are a number of other more substantive provisions. As an example, it adds standards and requirements for CCO annual reports and requires OHA to convene an accreditation advisory committee annually rather than as needed. Funding bills – A number of bills relating to behavioral health matters were passed in Committee and referred for further budgetary consideration, including: HB 2024 Amendment 3 - unanimous, $20 million OHA to develop and implement incentive payments which are designed to increase the wages of residential, out-patient, outreach and medically assisted treatment providers so they are competitive with for-profit and hospital providers; $20 million in grants to behavioral health care providers for defined services, $5 million for the purpose of establishing a program designed to enhance training, education and apprenticeship programs HB 2056A Amendment 1 – unanimous, $64,890 appropriation to OHA for distribution to community mental health programs HB 2059 Amendment 3 – unanimous, $90 million appropriation for building residential treatment facilities. League testimony HB 2729A Amendment 6 – party line vote with Democrats voting aye, $7 million appropriation for OHA to develop and implement grant programs for school districts, education services districts and entities that provide physical or behavioral health services to be used to increase and improve school-based mental health services and substance abuse prevention SB 920 was sponsored by Senator Daniel Bonham (Republican). It directs the Oregon State University Extension Service to accelerate the promotion of behavioral health in Oregon by convening local communities to develop plans that promote behavioral health and facilitate community conversations about mental health and substance abuse. All members of the Senate Early Childhood and Behavioral Health Committee voted for the bill except for Representative Diane Linthicum (Republican) who did not state her reasons for voting against it. Education By Jean Pierce Bills of interest receiving Do Pass Recommendations: HB2009 A / SB141 A are identical bills, both of which received Do Pass recommendations from their respective Education Committees, with subsequent referral to Ways and Means.. They require the Department of Education to study the adequacy of public education in Oregon. SB 315 A would require the Oregon Department of Education to review and make recommendations for recording student absences by school districts as well as school districts' responses to student absences that exceed10 days. (Senate Education) HB 2251A would require school district boards to adopt policies for the use of personal electronic devices by students (excluding laptops) that prohibit the use of personal electronic devices by students during instructional time. It requires policies to provide for the use of devices if medically necessary or part of a student's individualized education program or Section 504 plan.(House Education) Two bills of interest received Do Pass recommendations with referrals to Ways and Means from the House Education Committee. Currently, LWVOR has no K-12 position addressing the need for Attracting and Supporting Well-Qualified Teachers. This is one of the positions being proposed for Concurrence at our state convention. HB 3200 A would provide scholarships for teacher candidates who have experience with diverse populations. HB 3040 A would provide grants for professional development for early literacy coaching for schools and districts for students with the highest needs in 3rd grade proficiency. Impact of Federal Actions on Oregon Diversity, Equity, Inclusion (DEI) and Title I Funding On April 10th, Oregon’s director of education, Charlene Williams responded to a US Department of Education letter requiring states to end programs supporting DEI or lose millions in Title I funding. Dr. Williams reported that Oregon is refusing to sign a letter which would have confirmed compliance with the edict. Oregon receives close to $134 million in Title I funds, which go to 40% of the state’s schools and serve over 200,000 students from low-income families. Lawsuit Concerning Cuts in Funding for Math and Literacy Project: Last week’s Legislative Report noted that the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) had lost millions of dollars in federal funding for literacy and math programs. On April 10th, Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield joined with 15 other Attorneys General to sue the Trump administration for suspending the funding. Math Instructional Framework - Development of a math instructional framework to ensure students across the state are receiving the highest quality math instruction to support their learning and boost their outcomes. Oregon Literacy Practitioners Network - Establishment of a network of Oregon literacy ambassadors sharing best practices among educators to improve the quality of literacy instruction students receive around the state. Oregon Adolescent Literacy Framework Professional Learning Resources - Development of training modules, a collection of research and other literacy resources, as well as practical tools to support educators implementing the newly released Oregon Adolescent Literacy Framework for grades 6-12 in their classroom instruction. Instructional Framework - Development (including research and engagement) of a statewide instructional framework so that regardless of zip code Oregon students can count on excellent instruction. Regional In-Person Training For Educators - In partnership with Oregon’s Education Service Districts, provide five summits throughout the state (along with a communication campaign) for teams to use the new instructional resources in Early and Adolescent Literacy and prepare to bring this learning into their schools and classrooms. ODE detailed the cuts as follows: $1.5 million for a series of different instructional frameworks and the resources to accompany them, $1.2 million for educator development opportunities, $745,000 toward communications and technical assistance. Oregon Battle of the Books (OBOB) An executive order calling for the end of the Institute for Museum and Library Services has led to the termination of grant programs including the Oregon Battle of the Books. OBOB is a statewide initiative, which invites students in grades 3-12 to compete in teams to answer questions about a variety of books. Congress had approved funding for the program, which brought $26,000 to the state for this popular program. Gun Policy By Marge Easley There was mostly good news on the progress of gun policy bills as the Judiciary Committees reached their deadline for first chamber bills. On the House side, two of the most evidenced-based bills, HB 3075 and HB 3076 , were amended and passed House Judiciary on a 5-3 vote with a do pass recommendation and referred to Ways and Means. HB 3075, containing implementation details for Measure 114 (2022), requires permits to purchase a firearm and bans high-capacity magazines. HB 3076 creates a gun dealer licensing program. However, a big disappointment was the cancellation of the hearing for HB 3074 -1, which would have increased the use of Extreme Risk Protection orders with the goal of lowering Oregon’s high rate of suicide. Hopefully this bill will resurface in 2026. Also cancelled was HB 3884 , which would have facilitated the ability of gun dealers to temporarily store firearms for those at risk of suicide. On the Senate side, two key wins were the passage out of committee of SB 1015 and SB 243 . SB 1015, authorizing funding for community violence Intervention and prevention program, unanimously received a do pass recommendation and a referral to Ways and Means. SB 243, an omnibus bill that originally combined four previous bills, passed out of committee on a 4-2 vote with a Do Pass referral. Although the age restriction of 21 to purchase a firearm was stripped from the bill, it still contains a 72-hour waiting period for a firearm purchase, a ban on rapid fire devices, and a watered-down expansion of the ability of public spaces to be declared “gun free zones.” Housing By Nancy Donovan and Debbie Aiona Long-term rent assistance for youth On April 16, the House Committee on Housing and Homelessness will hold a hearing on SB 814 A . This bill, administered by Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) would expand eligibility criteria for its existing Long-Term Rent Assistance Program. Oregon Youth Authority (OYA) youth under the age of 25 would have an opportunity to access long-term rental assistance to achieve a greater level of housing security. Youth assisted would be those exiting a childcare center or youth correctional facility. This measure also requires OHCS to consult with the Oregon Youth Authority (OYA), among other stakeholders. At least 14% of youth who were committed to OYA since October 2022 have already experienced some period of homelessness. Studies indicate that housing instability increases the risk for recidivism. Achieving success for youth following involvement with the juvenile justice system is challenging at best. Many of these youth have experienced trauma and instability in their childhood and young adult life. Finding suitable housing with a criminal record and no rental experience poses additional hurdles. This bill will assist youth by providing a safe and stable home so they can devote their attention to employment, education, and family. Investing in the success of youth can help them achieve long term stability and success. Also, stable housing can offer a solid foundation for growth and opportunity. The League wrote in testimony in support of this important bill. Immigration By Becky Gladstone and Claudia Keith Bill # Description Policy Committee Status Fiscal M$ Chief Sponsors+ Comments SB 149 Immigration Study JWM waiting for Fiscal Y Sen Jama -3 amendment SB 599A Immig status: discrimnation in RealEstate transactions H Judiciary Sen Campos SB 611 Food for All Oregonians - for undocumented SC HS - JWM Work Sess 4/8 Y Sen Campos Rep Ruiz amendment -1 SB 703 a bipartisan immigration status update funding bill JWM 6 Sen Reynolds, Rep Neron, Ruiz, Smith G Testimony HB 2548 Agricultural Workforce Labor Standards Board. H Rules Rep Valderrama, Nelson , Munoz League Testimony HB 2976 funding for interpretation of indigenous languages. JWM Rep Hartman HB2788 funding to nonprofits to assist w lawful permanent resident status / legal aid - HC ECHS - JWM dead Rep Neron, Ruiz, Sen Reynolds * likely end of session Reconcilation Bill HB 2586 A nonresident tuition exemption for asylum seekers. Sen Ed RepHudson, SenCampos HB 2543 fundsfor universal representation and gives funds to Oregon State Bar for legal immigration matters HC Jud ? 15 Rep Valderrama, Sen Manning Jr, Rep Walters, Andersen, McLain, Sen Campos DAS - see sb 703 HB3193A Farm Worker Relief Fund JWM 10 Rep Marsh, SenPham, RepValderrama OHA HB 5002 Oregon Worker Relief Fund JCWM-GG ? 7 Das Public Safety By Karen Nibler HB 2677 on the expunction process for juvenile court records was tweaked again this session. The expunction laws for law violations by youth under 18 have been revised in the more recent sessions. The court can grant expunction within 60 days of application if there were no felonies or misdemeanors involving violence. So this should be the final revision. The bill was passed with Amendment 7 and sent to Ways and Means. Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Climate Emergency , Governance , and Natural Resources report sections.

Back to All Legislative Reports Natural Resources Legislative Report - Week of 6/29 Natural Resources Team Coordinator: Peggy Lynch Coastal Issues: Christine Moffitt, Peggy Lynch Columbia River Treaty: Philip Thor Dept. of Geology and Mineral Industries: Joan Fryxell Emergency Management: Rebecca Gladstone Forestry: Josie Koehne Elliott State Research Forest: Peggy Lynch Northwest Energy Coalition: Robin Tokmakian Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife: Melanie Moon Oregon Health Authority Drinking Water Advisory Committee: Sandra Bishop Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board: Water: Peggy Lynch Wildfire: Carolyn Mayers Ways and Means Natural Resource Budgets/Revenue: Peggy Lynch Please see Natural Resources Overview here . Jump to a topic: Agriculture Budgets/Revenue Climate Coastal Issues Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) Department of State Lands (DSL) Drinking Water Advisory Committee (DWAC) Elliott State Research Forest Forestry (ODF) Governance Hanford Land Use & Housing Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) Regional Solutions State Land Board Water Weather Wetlands Wildfire Intro The League of Women Voters of the United States believes that natural resources should be managed as interrelated parts of life-supporting ecosystems. Resources should be conserved and protected to assure their future availability. Pollution of these resources should be controlled in order to preserve the physical, chemical and biological integrity of ecosystems and to protect public health. This April 5th opinion piece in the Oregonian points out how we can all work together to support the League’s vision. Timber wars. Salmon wars. Water wars. For decades, Oregon’s natural resources have been framed as a series of conflicts. They don’t have to be. In a state as geographically and politically diverse as Oregon, foundations, nonprofit organizations and communities can help us find our way out of conflict by working in the radical middle — the space where most Oregonians already agree. …90% of voters across political parties agree that we have a moral responsibility to protect natural areas and habitat for the plants, fish and wildlife. …77% agree that clean air, clean water and undeveloped open spaces are critical to keeping Oregon’s economy strong. The League can continue to be a voice for these voters—supporting the good work of various community groups AND our state agencies who help protect these values. Join us! Now is the time when these agencies develop their budgets and propose legislation for the 2027 session. Your voices are critical to helping realize the LWVUS vision. Oregonians appreciate the continuing work of LWVUS as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reverses a critical public policy: The Endangerment Finding: On February 12, 2026, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reversed its 2009 Endangerment Finding, which had allowed the agency to regulate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This is a devastating decision as GHG emissions are the leading cause of climate change. See the Governance section below, related to permitting processes and 4 agencies’ explanation of their processes for addressing permit applications. The Governor is focusing on resiliency and has a Plan for a Resilient Oregon. The League has engaged in these issues in the past and, with the multiple crises facing Oregon, a Plan is a great idea! See the Revenue section of this Legislative Report and sections of other Legislative Reports. AGRICULTURE The League continues to follow work on the Lower Umatilla Basin Groundwater Management Area (LUBGWMA). State agencies are increasing their monitoring and enforcement of state laws and rules. But a lot of work remains, according to the state’s first report on its progress. There are new nitrate monitoring rules per this March 19 OPB article . Here’s a March 31 st article from Your Oregon News (originally published by the Oregon Capital Chronicle) that “ Tech giant Amazon will pay $20.5 million to settle with northeast Oregonians living with contaminated groundwater in exchange for no admission of guilt in the polluting.” The June 17 Emergency Board approved expenditure limitation of $2 million to address groundwater data gaps in the LUBGWA area. The money comes from an EPA-awarded grant. BUDGETS/REVENUE Peggy Lynch Here are all 746 pages of the 2025-27 Legislative Adopted Budget. The document is searchable. The Natural Resources agencies section starts on page 494. The Emergency Board was allotted monies during the long session to deal with client changes and wildfire or other emergencies occurring between now and the 2027 session. They may also meet during the next Legislative Days. The League continues to work with state agencies and the Governor’s Office as they develop their 2027-29 budgets. Here’s some budget guidance that agencies have received: 2027-29 Budget Guidance: Governor's Letter and CFO 2027-29 Budget POP Guidance . Bottom line: The Governor has asked state agencies to provide a “neutral” budget. If they want to add a program or staff, they need to find a program or staff to remove from their budget request. The exception is if the request helps implement the Governor’s recent Executive Orders. You can contact the agency you want to engage with as they work to provide proposals to the Governor. Many agencies now have their draft budget documents on their websites. CLIMATE Claudia Keith and Team See the Climate Emergency section of this Legislative Report. There are overlaps with this Natural Resources Report. We encourage you to read both sections. COASTAL ISSUES The Department of Land Conservation and Development is asking LCDC to initiate a rulemaking process to develop new rules under Goal 16: Estuarine Resources, Goal 17: Coastal Shorelands, and Goal 18: Beaches and Dunes related to the use of coastal shoreline stabilization measures directed by Senate Bill (SB) 504 (2025). Agenda and materials for the Land Conservation and Development Commission Meetings June 25-26, 2026. Coastal shoreline stabilization rulemaking webpage . West Coast Offshore Wind needs better planning as reported in this article from Jefferson Radio. Update of the Territorial Sea Plan : The Department of Land Conservation and Development is asking the Land Conservation and Development Commission to initiate a rulemaking process to amend Parts One and Two of the Territorial Sea Plan.  The Territorial Sea Plan rulemaking webpage will host the information and materials in support of the LCDC rulemaking effort. Information will also be posted on the Oregon Ocean Information website as it pertains to OPAC meetings. Good news : The critical ocean monitoring system will continue after the federal government originally asked that the equipment be pulled and the system dismantled. The League of Women Voters of Coos County continues to follow the proposed Pacific Coast Intermodal Port (PCIP) project in Coos Bay. (See their public website .) DEPT. OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (DEQ) The Environmental Quality Commission will hold its next regular meeting on July 9-10, in Astoria and via Zoom. Materials for the meeting, including links to staff reports, will be available closer to meeting date on the meeting agenda webpage . DEPT. OF GEOLOGY AND MINERAL INDUSTRIES (DOGAMI) Joan Fryxell What is DOGAMI? Great 5 minute video . Will there be a “Big One”? The Cascadia Seismic Imaging Experiment cruise in 2021provided a report released in Science Advances in late 2025, “ This is the first time we have a clear picture of a subduction zone caught in the act of dying.” See March 10 Oregonlive article that suggests “… the plate is ripping apart piece by piece, creating smaller microplates and new boundaries,”. The League continues to monitor the Grassy Mountain Gold Mine project outside of Vale. We will also continue following DOGAMI’s carbon sequestration project in NE Oregon. Because of the high federal interest in rare earth minerals, we expect that this agency will be busy in processing permit applications, particularly in Eastern Oregon. According to a June 22 article in the Statesman Journal: A Canadian mining company has resurrected plans for a copper, gold and silver mine located just outside the Opal Creek Wilderness and about 10 miles northwest of Detroit,…. Ameriwest Critical Metals , based in British Columbia, purchased mining claims known as the Bornite Project in November 2025 and is working through early stages of what could become an underground mine producing 1,000 tons of copper per day. The mine would sit along Cedar Creek and any pollution could flow into the Little North Santiam and North Santiam River — the drinking water source for Salem, Stayton and other towns. Bornite is a sulfide mineral, so acid mine water will be an issue, Here is the link to the LWVOR Hard Rock Mining Study, done in 2018. DEPT. OF STATE LANDS At the June 9 th State Land Board meeting, the agency presented a draft of their 2027-29 budget and Policy Option Packages. See page 126 of the meeting packet . DRINKING WATER ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DWAC) Sandra U. Bishop The League has a standing seat on DWAC. T he Environmental Protection Agency flags microplastics and pharmaceuticals in drinking water per this OPB article . ELLIOTT STATE RESEARCH FOREST (ESRF) The ESRF Board met May 13. Click here to download the meeting agenda and materials . Here is the YouTube recording of the meeting. OPB provided an article May 28 th about progress on the Habitat Conservation Plan: A long-running effort to turn a coastal Oregon forest into a living laboratory took a major step forward this week, as federal officials approved two key wildlife protection plans tied to the Elliott State Research Forest. The Elliott State Research Forest Board of Directors met virtually March 11. Click here to download the meeting agenda and materials . The Habitat Conservation Plan has been federally approved so the first timber sale (268 acres of thinning) was completed at the end of March. By thinning, this area will provide better habitat for endangered species and improve fire protection. The $1 million grant will move the Elliott toward a fiscally sustainable management system. FORESTRY (ODF) Josie Koehne Here is the proposed ODF 2027-29 Budget and POPS (Policy Option Packages) document. As of June 15, all Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) districts are in fire season. SB 1590 A : Prohibits public bodies from assisting the federal government with privatization of certain federally owned lands. This was signed into law Nationwide, we are concerned about our public lands. This article in the Oregon Capital Chronicle shares what might happen under the Congressional Review Act. KPTV shared a story about potential increased logging in Oregon forests. Besides western Oregon lands, per KLCC , northeast Oregon federal forests are also a part of the discussion. Should timber sales go forward, there will be a need for federal staff and new capacity for Oregon mills to process the logs. GOVERNANCE Peggy Lynch LWVOR continues to follow permitting processes. On June 15 th , the House Rules Committee invited 4 agencies to share their permitting processes: Dept. of State Lands ; Dept. of Environmental Quality ; Dept. of Geology and Mineral Industries . The League engages in these processes in our two-fold focus on public engagement and protecting the environment while supporting a positive economy. LWVOR provided Comments on HB 4020 (2026). HANFORD An article in the Oregon Capital Chronicle explains concerns around potential cuts to the Hanford Cleanup: Cuts that Republicans in the U.S. House are seeking to the nuclear cleanup at Washington’s Hanford site would go deeper than steep reductions the Trump administration proposed. Hanford’s fiscal 2026 budget is almost $3.3 billion. The Trump administration wants to chop that by roughly $400 million. The GOP-controlled House wants to subtract another $55 million. The Republican-dominated Senate has yet to unveil its proposal. The combined proposed cuts translate to a $2.77 billion Hanford budget for the 2027 federal fiscal year, which begins in October, according to the House Appropriations Committee’s proposed budget for the U.S. Department of Energy. Casey Sixkiller, director of Washington’s ecology department, said in a statement that the proposed cuts would “delay critical progress at our nation’s most complex nuclear cleanup site, threatening the Columbia River and communities across the region.” LAND USE & HOUSING Peggy Lynch On June 16, the House Interim Committee On Housing and Homelessness received an abbreviated report on the expanded ability of cities to swap Urban Growth Boundary lands that may have problems about development with lands more readily serviceable. The League warns of caution as cities consider this option. The Land Conservation and Development Commission will meet June 25-26 in Salem. agenda and meeting materials . Rulemaking, housing and data centers are on the agenda Here is a link to the data center Staff briefing . From the Capital Press March 10: A lawmaker is shelving a controversial proposal ( SB 1586 2026) to increase Oregon’s competitiveness in computer chip manufacturing by allowing the industrial conversion of farmland outside Hillsboro. Sen. Janeen Sollman, D-Hillsboro, ..“decided not to advance the bill” during this year’s short legislative session, but said there’s still a need to boost employment in the state and will “look forward to continuing that work.” The League submitted strong testimony in opposition. Data Centers have become a major political issue in Oregon and around the U.S. Governor Kotek has established a Data Center Advisory Committee . League members are monitoring, not just how they are related to land use, but water and energy use and tax consequences. Look for legislation in 2027. Building homes near jobs, stores and transit saves public dollars, a paper by Pew Trust partners. This is a view that LWVOR continues to support and why Oregon’s land use planning program is so valuable. See also the Housing Report in the Social Policy section of this Legislative Report. OREGON DEPT. OF FISH AND WILDLIFE (ODFW) Melanie Moon On April 9, Oregon signed into law the historic HB 4134 , increasing Oregon’s statewide transient lodging tax by 1.25% (from 1.5% to 2.75%) to create a dedicated, long-term funding source for wildlife, conservation, and habitat programs. HB 4134 is projected to generate roughly $37 million to $38 million in revenue per year. Oregon Fish & Wildlife proposes in their 27-29 budget that the new revenue be directed towards a variety of environmental, recreational, and coexistence programs including: Recovering Oregon’s Wildlife Fund: Roughly $27.4 million goes directly toward implementing the state’s science-based State Wildlife Action Plan to conserve at-risk species and their habitats. Wildlife Coexistence Protection: Approximately $4.3 million is allocated to enforce anti-poaching laws, manage invasive species, fund wildlife rehabilitation centers, and compensate ranchers who experience livestock losses due to wolves. Community-Based Conservation: Nearly $5.8 million supports outdoor stewardship programs, wildfire risk reduction through the Oregon Conservation Corps, and the Oregon Conservation and Recreation Grants Fund. ODFW presents the budget to the Governor on June 26, 2026. Here is the ODFW Budget webpage . The Governor will consider the agency’s budget proposal before submitting her budget to the legislature. News from ODFW: The State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP) has been approved by the federal government. The League provided comments on the SWAP before it was adopted by ODFW. On June 18, ODFW learned of a sudden loss of funding for the Columbia River SAFE Program . OREGON PARKS AND RECREATION DEPT (OPRD) Jim Buck The 2026 session provided funds to purchase Abiqua Falls : As the Oregon Legislature wrapped up its short session earlier this month, a bipartisan group of lawmakers celebrated a small win: securing the funds to buy Abiqua Falls . The 92-foot waterfall, found just outside Silverton, has for nearly a century been owned by the Mount Angel Abbey, a local Benedictine order that in February put the land on the market . But while the abbey has allowed public access for hikers, it hasn’t been maintaining the area. Both the road and the trail to the waterfall are notoriously treacherous. The cost to make this a safe state park will be a challenge, especially since our State Parks Dept. is facing funding challenges without this addition. The League is working with others to address the fiscal crisis at OPRD. Oregonlive provided an article on ways they are nibbling around the edges. The League studied Oregon Parks in 1998: Oregon State Parks, Part 1 (PDF, 7 pgs) Oregon State Parks, Part 2 (PDF, 9 pgs) . Partners are serving on a Work Group with the hope of some solutions in 2027. OREGON WATERSHED ENHANCEMENT BOARD (OWEB) As shared in the last legislative report,the Oregon Environmental Restoration Council (OERC)—a part of OWEB--has the OERC’s website. The state of Oregon has secured a historic $698 million dollar settlement against Monsanto for long term harm caused by the company’s polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) chemicals to Oregon’s land, water, fish and wildlife. The Ways and Means Committee approved an “Other Funds” expenditure limitation increase of $35 million which was included in HB 5204. Administrative Rules have been adopted. Here are the next meeting dates where the first round of allocations will be considered. Part of the guidance being used is implementation of the Governor’s Executive Order 25-26 . The Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board website is hosting the natural resource agencies’ website . Towards the bottom of the page is a link to the background memo for workshops held in March. REGIONAL SOLUTIONS The Regional Solutions Program : Within each of the 11 Regions, which are tied to Oregon’s federally designated Economic Development Districts, a Governor-appointed Advisory Committee sets Regional Priorities and a cross-functional Team of state agency staff works together to move projects forward. To receive their reports, use this signup page . The public is welcome to attend virtually or in person. Go to the program website and to the region to find the agendas and meeting materials posted a few days before the meetings. Public Comment is usually scheduled. Upcoming Regional Solutions Advisory Committee (RSAC) Meetings: STATE LAND BOARD Peggy Lynch The State Land Board meets regularly. Their next meetings (tentative) are October 13, and December 8. Watch a livestream of the meeting or recordings of past meetings on their YouTube channel. Here’s the agenda from the April 14 th meeting where the Board adopted new rules related to Waterway Leases, etc. although the new pricing won’t go into effect until July 2027. They also received the annual report om the South Slough. League members are actively involved in this first national estuarine reserve and LWVOR has supported this facility since its inception. Here’s the agenda for the June 9 th meeting. Among the issues were approval of the sale of Hayden Island filled lands to ODOT and approval of the Department of Forestry budget request. The Department of State Lands (DSL) budget for 2027-29 was presented. The Land Board authorized the DSL Director to submit and certify an Agency Request Budget since the Governor also has a voice and vote on the DSL budget submission to the legislature in her Governor’s Budget. Also of note was approval to initiate Division 95 rulemaking between the Dept. of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) and DSL under the State Agency Coordination program. Most Agency Coordination agreements have not been renewed since the 1990s, and this is the first of many of these agreements to be considered between agencies and with the leadership of DLCD. WATER Drought 2026: 10 simple tips to save water at home this summer. On June 17, the Joint Emergency Board met and approved grant requests and reports per the list of Meeting Materials . Among the funding approvals was a request for $1 million for the Well Abandonment, Repair and Replacement Fund (WARRF). In 2025, the Department received an additional $1.18 million and re-opened the WARRF program in fall 2025. Between December 3, 2025, and May 11 , 2026, the Department received more than 50 applications, awarded over $640,000 to 21 homeowners, and is processing an additional 18 applications. The average WARRF cost is $28,500 per well. At the current pace, all funds are expected to be fully committed by the end of May 2026. LWVOR supported this Fund and was pleased to see the E-Board’s actions. The Oregon Water Resources Dept. (OWRD) needs to update some rules due to statute change but we are considering other improvements to Division 250 (water distribution), 260 (civil penalties in other than well construction) (exempt uses) and 300 (definitions—really the overlapping definitions with the other rules). We are interested in what suggestions you and others have in terms of how the rules could be improved for clarity and consistency in application. Website for this potential rulemaking . A Rules Advisory Committee may begin work this fall. You can contact OWRD if you are interested in serving. Here is a paper on the Waste of Water. And another with definitions of waste in other Western States. On June 15, the House Interim Committee On Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water received presentations from the Oregon Climatologist , OWRD , OWRD (2) and DEQ (reuse). Also on June 15, the Senate Interim Committee On Energy and Environment received two reports : (1) Addendum: (2) from Anders Carlson, President, Oregon Glaciers. The focus of the report from 2003-2023. Some of us have 50-year memories. The loss is extensive and very sad. This is the latest OWRD Water and Drought Report—June 15. They do a report every week. You can sign up to receive it. The Water Resources Commission met June 11-12. Here are the staff reports including a report on the Integrated Water Resources Strategy (IWRS), Drought, Geologic Carbon Sequestration issues and a 2027-29 budget and legislative update. Per an April 9 Oregonlive article : The state recorded its lowest amount of liquid water in snowpack ever measured on April 1, joining seven other Western states in a crisis that experts say will worsen throughout spring and summer. Need for water by data centers is a concern in many commu nities. Oregonlive on April 6 covers needs by Google in The Dalles. ***The Deschutes County League provided comments to OWRD on the Deschutes groundwater mitigation program and a proposed Legislative Concept for the 2027 session. Oregon Water Caucus : The Oregon Legislature's Water Caucus is a bipartisan, bicameral group of state legislators and staff committed to fostering a secure and resilient water future for all. T o learn more about the Water Caucus and its work, please contact Harmony Burright at 541-846-8863 or Harmony.Burright@OregonLegislature.gov . You can also subscribe to receive email updates from the Water Caucus . The Caucus is holding in-person meetings in Salem before the 2027 session to develop an agenda for the 2027 session. League members may want to check the U. S. Drought Monitor , a map that is updated every Thursday. Governor Kotek has declared a drought in seventeen counties and the Burns Paiute Tribe in 2026 ( map ) with Wasco and Josephine counties under consideration . Here is a more complete website about drought in Oregon. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM) , as of 6/9, 84% of Oregon is in some form of drought, with 44% of the state in severe (D2) to extreme drought (D3). Current drought conditions on the USDM are being driven by above-normal temperatures, persistent short- and long-term precipitation deficits, below-normal streamflow conditions, and well-below-normal snowpack. The expansion and introduction of extreme drought in Oregon reflects severe long-term moisture deficits in Oregon. To date, 17 Oregon counties and the Burns Paiute Tribe have received state drought declarations under ORS 536. Josephine and Wasco counties have recently requested declarations. Per a notice from OWRD on June 3rd: The Oregon Water Resources Department contracted with Oregon State University, University of Oregon, and the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, to undertake a Drought Vulnerability Assessment that examines drought frequency, intensity, and impacts across the state, along with policy and water justice considerations. The Assessment consists of four reports authored by researchers from the three universities. You can access the Assessment on the OWRD website. We all need to pay attention to the potential for harmful algal blooms ( HABs) . “When in doubt, stay out.” With the heat and drought, the danger is serious. Visit the Harmful Algae Bloom website or call the Oregon Public Health Division toll-free information line at 877-290-6767 to learn if an advisory has been issued or lifted for a specific water body. Information on current advisories can be found on the OHA’s cyanobacteria bloom webpage at healthoregon.org/hab . The OHA has an online photo gallery to help community members identify signs of potentially harmful blooms. WEATHER Extreme heat events are defined as any period of two or more consecutive days with unusually hot weather that is far above the average for that time and place. Oregon’s Five-Year Averages: 2006–2010: 12 Days 2021–2025: 22 Days From an Our Oregon News article of May 20: The Pacific Northwest has the best chance among all U.S. regions of having a hotter-than-average summer, the National Weather Service said May 21. Oregonlive article of April 20: “Since last April, the state of Oregon is in its fifth driest 12-month period on record, going back to 1895,” O’Neill said. “So it’s not just the snowpack we have to worry about. It’s that these drought conditions have been building.” Oregonlive April 13 article : After a weak La Niña winter in Oregon, odds are up for an El Niño summer . There’s a 61% chance El Niño conditions will emerge in May through July, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Climate Prediction Center . In the Pacific Northwest, that typically means a warmer, drier season. It could also mean a low snowpack this coming winter. Oregon Capital Chronicle April 6 article : Forecasters predict, prepare for increased drought and wildfire risk after NOAA climate outlook :While the Pacific Northwest west of the Cascades is known for its seemingly constant rain, much of Oregon is preparing for drought conditions and increased wildfire risk for the summer. Fish, wildfires, farmers and ranchers all are worried about the upcoming summer. Statesman Journal of March 9: This winter was tied for the warmest on record in Oregon, according to data released this week by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. December, January and February — meteorological winter — brought an average temperature of 38.7 degrees, which tied 1934 for the warmest season in records that date back to 1896. Oregon’s average winter temperature is 32.4 degrees. This season was barely warmer than 2015, which was 38.6 degrees. The record-warm temperatures help explain why there is historically little snow in the mountains. Currently, Oregon's snowpack is 29% of normal and essentially tied with 2015 for the worst snow season since 1981. Here’s a short video explaining El Nino. WETLANDS Pew research explains the value of coastal wetlands. WILDFIRE Carolyn Mayers Remember that 70% of wildfires are human caused. Be careful! On June 16, the Senate Interim Committee On Natural Resources and Wildfire heard from the new State Forester KC Kacey and Chief Ruiz Temple, the State Fire Marshal, who presented the following information: 3/4 of Oregon is projected to be at an elevated risk of potentially significant wildfire for July. In addition, the entire northwest is also under the same scenario which means help from other states will be less predictable, available. Extreme El Niño possible. Expect earlier and longer fire season. Compared to both 2015 and 2018. The Oregon Water Resources Dept. provided a report on drought. Oregon Dept. of Forestry provided this report . As of June 15, all Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) districts are in fire season. The Governor declared a state of emergency due to wildfire threats on June 16. Forecasters remain concerned that persistent dry conditions will lead to a peak Western wildfire season that starts early and stays busy despite recent precipitation. “Lack of snowpack and abnormal warmth over winter is a big concern because it could start us off early and rather quickly,” said Jim Wallmann, U.S. Forest Service wildfire meteorologist at the National Interagency Fire Center in Boise. “The positive, if I can say there is a positive, is that we are still early in the year and there is still potential for this spring to mitigate the worst of conditions where the summer could be closer to normal.” From the March 7 th Rogue Valley Times. The federal April report from The Alliance for Wildfire Resilience might be of interest. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED : What is your passion related to Natural Resources? You can help. Volunteers are needed. We particularly need help tracking legislation concerning: Oregon Dept. of Agriculture Air Quality (Dept. of Environmental Quality) Columbia River Gorge Commission Hanford Cleanup Recycling/Materials Management (Dept. of Environmental Quality) Toxic Control (I don't know what this means? Pesticides and Biocides was the study.) Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board Oregon Environmental Restoration Council Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Climate Emergency , Revenue , Governance , and Social Policy report sections.

Social Policy Bills in 2026 Session Bill number Summary LWVOR Testimony Chamber / Current Committee Status Criminal Justice SJR 203 A Constitutional Amendment Prohibiting Secret Police Support Senate Rules SB 1515 A Wrongful Convictions Support Passed Both Chambers HB 4045 A Search Warrant Response Time Limits Support Passed Both Chambers HB 4114 A Rules for Operations of Federal Agents or Agents from Another State in OR Support Passed Both Chambers HB 4138 A Requires ID and Prohibits Face Coverings for Law Enforcement Agents Support Passed Both Chambers Education SB 1538 A Education for Immigrants Support Governor Signed HB 4079 A Public Schools Must Inform When ICE is Present on the Campus Support Passed Both Chambers HB 4149 A Directs School Districts to Enroll and Provide Services for Homeless Students Support Passed Both Chambers Gun Policy HB 4145 A Modifies permitting for Measure 114 Support Passed Both Chambers Healthcare SB1527 A Provides Access to Follow-up Testing After an Abnormal Pap Support Governor Signed SB 1570 A Safety for Healthcare Providers and Patients Support Passed Both Chambers SB 1598 Insurance Coverage of Required Immunizations Support Passed Both Chambers HB 4054 Transparency when AI downcodes Support Joint Info Mgmt & Tech Reproductive Health HB 4088 A Privacy in Healthcare Support Passed Both Chambers HB 4127 Payment for Reproductive Healthcare Support Passed Both Chambers Social Policy Read Our 2025 Priorities Here 2026 Legislative Priorities SUPPORT HEALTHCARE/BEHAVIORAL HEALTH. Protect accessibility to all healthcare services during federal support reduction. Preserve healthcare decision rights for patients and providers. Advocate for bills that ensure that every Oregonian has access to cost-effective, clinically appropriate and affordable health care as a fundamental right. SUPPORT HOUSING STRATEGIES that keep people housed by preventing evictions and displacement, providing affordable permanent housing and support services, preserving existing low-income housing and increasing the supply of new units. Maintain shelter beds where needed. Provide state support for infrastructure and pre-development expenses for affordable housing projects. SUPPORT FUNDING FOR EDUCATION. Provide adequate & equitable funding for early childhood, child care, K-12, after-school and summer care, as well as higher education. Advocate for coordination and transparency in funding. PROMOTE PUBLIC SAFETY and a more equitable and effective criminal justice system through violence prevention/reduction programs, rehabilitation and reentry programs for adults and juveniles in custody, and common-sense gun laws. L WVOR Positions League Social Policy Positions can be found here: Issues for Actio n (LWVOR): Adult Corrections Child Care Children at Risk Farmworker Issues Adult Mental Health Mental Health Services for Children and Youth Homeless Youth Juvenile Justice Public Postsecondary Education Impact on Issues (LWVUS) Criminal Justice – page 137 Equality of Opportunity – page 140 Federal Role in Public Education – page 152 Fiscal Policy – page 154 Health Care – page 157 Immigration – page 167 Meeting Basic Human Needs – page 170 Child Care – page 176 Early Intervention for Children at Risk – page 177 Violence Prevention - page 178 Gun Policy – page 179 Urban Policy – page 181 Death Penalty – page 183 Sentencing Policy – page 184 Human Trafficking – page 185 Previous Legislative Reports Next

Back to All Legislative Reports Social Policy Legislative Report - Week of 4/3 Social Policy Team Coordinator: Jean Pierce • After School and Summer Care: Katie Riley • Behavioral Health: Trish Garner • Criminal Justice/Juvenile Justice: Marge Easley / Sharron Noon • Education: Jean Pierce / Stephanie Engle • Equal Rights for All Ballot Measure: Jean Pierce Kyra Aguon • Gender-Related Concerns, Reproductive Health, Age Discrimination: Trish Garner • Gun Safety & Gun Issues, Rights for Incarcerated People: Marge Easley • Hate and Bias Crimes: Claudia Keith/ Becky Gladstone /rhyen enger • Health Care: Christa Danielsen • Housing: Debbie Aiona and Nancy Donovan Jump to a topic: Housing Criminal Justice Gun Safety Human Services Immigration Housing By Debbie Aiona and Nancy Donovan Governor Kotek recently signed into law the emergency $200 million Affordable Housing and Emergency Homelessness Response Package to address the state’s housing and homelessness crisis, and now the work begins. This week saw a flurry of activity as the Legislature worked to meet the first-chamber April 4 deadline. If a bill does not make it out of committee by then, it will not go forward in this session. Housing bills passed on April 3: Senate Housing and Development and House Housing and Homelessness. SB 861 will allocate $10 million from the General Fund to Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS), in coordination with the Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD). The funds will be used to provide grants to promote the development of innovative and cost-effective housing types. The bill also requires establishment of a Volunteer Task Force on Innovative and Cost-Effective Housing to evaluate and develop, structure, and recommend housing finance programs to promote affordable, mixed, and middle-income housing construction; develop programs to maximize benefits of existing federal funds and programs, evaluate innovative housing finance programs in other jurisdictions; and identify best practices. The bill passed with referral to JW&Ms. SB 1069 allows the electronic delivery of landlord and tenant notices, including notice of disposal, sale, or storage of tenant’s personal property, and electronic refunds and returns of security deposits and rent. The bill passed with amendments and referral to W&Ms. SB 611 will limit residential rent increases to the lesser of 1% or 3%, plus the consumer price index one-year change. It further would increase the amount of rent owed to the tenant from one month to three months in certain eviction cases and reduce the exemption on rent increases allowed on new construction from 15 years to three. The bill passed with amendments. SB 918 directs OHCS to establish the Oregon Housing Justice Program to provide grants to culturally specific and responsive organizations. Funding from the General Fund will support homelessness and housing stability-related purposes and to extend current agreements when feasible including: $100,000 in grants to culturally specific and culturally responsive organizations; $14 million to Oregon Worker Relief; $10.5 million to the Urban League of Portland; $1.5 million to the Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization; and $9.5 million to community action agencies. The bill passed with amendments and referral to W&Ms. Housing bills passed on April 4 by the by House Housing and Homelessness HB 2889 will establish the Oregon Housing Needs Analysis within OHCS. It also will amend land use requirements for local governments related to urbanization, including requiring Metro to adopt a housing coordination strategy, as well allow cities outside of Metro to adopt rural reserves. The Land Conservation and Development Commission is to implement rules by January 1, 2026. The committee passed the bill with amendments and referral to W&Ms. HB 3488 A provides funding for: down payment assistance grants to culturally specific and tribal organizations, flexible loans for home purchasers, and for tribes serving low-income home buyers and homeowners. It also allocates funding to the Bureau of Labor and Industries, the Fair Housing Council of Oregon, and the Department of Justice to support fair housing education, investigations, and enforcement. These efforts are intended to address significant disparities in home ownership for communities of color. The bill passed with amendments, referred to W&Ms. HB 2680 strengthens and clarifies legislation passed in 2019 related to screening fees charged for rental applications. The bill requires the landlord to refund screening fees within 14 days if the apartment is filled before screening the applicant or if the application is withdrawn before the screening takes place. If the landlord fails to return the fee, damages the applicant may recover increases from $150 to $250. The bill passed with amendments. HB 3309 requires a minimum percentage of accessible units in multifamily housing developed by OHCS programs. It will require the department to include accessible units and accessibility considerations in the programs and plans. The bill passed with amendments. HB 3462 Department of Emergency Management, during certain emergencies, to prioritize immediate provision of housing to displaced individuals. The bill passed with amendments. HB 2980 directs OHCS to develop an affordable housing revolving loan program under which participating cities and counties may award grants to housing developers for certain eligible costs and repay loans from tax increment financing revenues, which are derived from housing property value increases. The bill passed with amendments with referral to W&Ms. Criminal Justice By Marge Easley The Senate and House Judiciary Committees made their way through their backload of bills in work sessions on April 3 and 4. Here are several criminal justice bills of interest to the League that passed their respective committee. SB 337 A establishes the Public Defense Services Commission in the judicial branch of state government to oversee and correct the deficiencies in Oregon’s public defense system. Nine voting members and four non-voting members are to be appointed by the Chief Justice. After passage the bill was referred to W&Ms. HB 2365 is a related placeholder bill that directs the Public Defense Services Commission to study ways to improve the provision of public defense services within the state. The bill passed without recommendation, referred to House Rules. SB 554 A creates a process for filing post-conviction relief petitions due to currently available forensic evidence at any time after conviction. The bill passed in Senate Judiciary and was referred to W&Ms. SB 974 creates the crime of sexual assault by fraudulent representation. This bill was crafted to tighten Oregon criminal statutes after a West Linn doctor failed to be indicted for the sexual assault of over 120 patients in his office. The bill is headed to the Senate floor. Gun Safety By Marge Easley The League is happy to report that gun safety legislation is on the move this session! HB 2005 A , a combination of HB 2005, HB 2006, and HB 2007, now includes a ban on undetectable and unserialized firearms (“ghost guns”), an age restriction of 21 to purchase a firearm, and an expansion of the number of jurisdictions that can establish gun-free zones. The bill passed House Judiciary on March 30 and W&Ms Subcommittee on Public Safety on April 4. A work session is scheduled for April 7 in full W&Ms. SB 348 A , the implementation bill for Measure 114, passed Senate Judiciary on April 4 with a do-pass recommendation and a request for referral to W&Ms. The -3 amendment was adopted and contains some technical fixes, but the intent of the measure’s sponsors was kept largely intact: establishing a permit-to-purchase requirement and a ban on large-capacity magazines. Although Measure 114 is tied up in both state and federal courts, the bill enables agency process work to proceed. The federal district court case will be heard June 5-9, while the Harney County Court case is scheduled for September 18-22. SB 527 A , to give gun dealers the option of setting an age limit of 21 for gun purchases, passed Senate Judiciary on April 3. An amendment was adopted to require the Department of Education to develop and implement a firearm safety education curriculum for students in grades 7 to 9. Human Services By Karen Nibler HB 2327 A proposed that County Juvenile departments work with youth under 12 to prevent further harmful and illegal behaviors. Funding for this expansion of services will come through the Youth Development Division. This bill did not pass the House Judiciary Committee but the following bill did pass. HB 2372 A gives further direction to the Youth Development Division under the Department of Education on the distribution of funds for high - risk prevention plans including the tribes. HB 2371 which required the Oregon Youth Authority to study issues on juveniles was sent to Rules. HB 2365 which covered ways to improve Public Defense Services also was sent to Rules on April 4. Senate bills sent to Rules included SB 697 on Guilty Except for Insanity but SB 698 was sent back to the Senate Chair for reassignment to another committee. HB 1070 which asks for consideration of victims of domestic abuse or violence in sentencing was also sent to Rules. Behavioral Health bills that passed in the last few days were HB 2235 A which set up a workgroup to study barriers to behavioral health workforce recruitment; and HB 2513 A which allocated funds for first-year grants for services to be effective on July 1, 2026. Two more bills HB 2445 A authorized behavioral health certification for peer support specialists and HB 2455 A imposed audit requirements on claims for reimbursement by behavioral health treatment providers. Both bills will go to Human Services Ways and Means. Immigration & Refugee By Claudia Keith Bills we are supporting or following: HB 2957 the -4 amendment Work Session was held 3/29 . It passed out of committee unanimously to JW&Ms, -4 Staff Measure Summary . Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. Fiscal. League Testimony . HB 3176 - 3 : ‘Welcome and Reception’ program for immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. Work Session was 4/3 . Passed out to JW&Ms with 9/1 vote. Staff Measure Summary . Public Hearing was March 8 . Fiscal . Bills moved from Policy Committee to JW&Ms: SB 627 : Funding for universal (legal) fees for non-documented individuals ($15M) Sen Lieber. Passed out of Sen Judiciary, DO Pass, Feb 7, sent to JW&Ms with partisan vote. The League has supported this policy/funding category in the past. Fiscal Analysis . Bills of Interest or possible League support: SB 849 Public Hearing 2/28 with -1 amendment . Preliminary SMS -1 : Work session was 3/14. Now in JW&Ms. Fiscal $20M grant fund. Requires professional licensing boards to provide culturally responsive training to specified staff members, publish guidance on pathways to professional authorization for internationally educated individuals and waive requirement for English proficiency examination for specified internationally educated individuals. SB 185 : 4/3 Public Hearing and WS cancelled. The bill is now dead: would have required the DoJ to study immigration in this state; may include legislation recommendations. Requested by Attorney General Rosenblum. Basic Needs SB 610 -5: Work Session 4/3 . Moved to JW&Ms. Establishes Food for All Oregonians Program within Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Fiscal , Staff Measure Summary . HB 2990 -1 : Work session 3/27 . Moved to JW&Ms. Resilience Hubs. Directs Oregon Health Authority to develop and implement grant programs to support resilience hubs and networks in Oregon. Fiscal Statement Other Bills SB 216 Passed out of SCHC 3/1 , Now in House Behavioral Health and Health Care. PH 4/16 and WS 4/18 scheduled. Related to data collected by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), request of Governor Kate Brown. OHA set a goal of eliminating health disparities by 2030 including those based on race, ethnicity, language, or disability (REALD) and sexual orientation or gender identity (SOGI). HB2905 : Now in Senate Education, expands the list of individuals whose histories, contributions and perspectives are required to be included in social studies academic content standards and in related textbooks and instructional materials. Passed House Committee by Unanimous Vote . SB 421 -1 Work session 3/30 moved to JW&Ms with 6/1 vote, establishes a youth advisory council. Prescribes youth standards advisory council membership and duties. ODE to establish a work group to establish the youth advisory council member selection process. Staff Measure Summary , Fiscal SB 613 : Creates Commission for Indigenous Communities. In Senate Rules.

Back to All Legislative Reports Social Policy Legislative Report - Week of 3/10 Social Policy Team Coordinator: Jean Pierce • After School and Summer Care: Katie Riley • Behavioral Health: Trish Garner • Criminal Justice/Juvenile Justice: Marge Easley / Sharron Noon • Education: Jean Pierce / Stephanie Engle • Equal Rights for All Ballot Measure: Jean Pierce Kyra Aguon • Gender-Related Concerns, Reproductive Health, Age Discrimination: Trish Garner • Gun Safety & Gun Issues, Rights for Incarcerated People: Marge Easley • Hate and Bias Crimes: Claudia Keith/ Becky Gladstone /rhyen enger • Health Care: Christa Danielsen • Housing: Debbie Aiona and Nancy Donovan Note: Education reports after January, 2024, are included in Social policy reports. Education reports prior to February, 2024, can be found HERE . Please see the Legislation Tracker for 2025 Social Policy bills . Jump to topic: Behavioral Health Early Learning and Child Care Education Housing Public Safety Behavioral Health By Stephanie Aller The House Behavioral Health and Health Care Committee will have a public hearing for HB 2059 on March 18. HB 2059 directs the Oregon Health Authority to create a unit dedicated to developing behavioral health facilities sufficient to serve the needs of each trauma system in the state. The Joint Committee on Addiction and Community Safety Response will have a public hearing on bills relating to youth substance use disorder on March 12. HB 2502 would require a collaborative study, led by the Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission, focused on increasing school-based substance use prevention and intervention programs. The bill requires the development of a comprehensive plan and the distribution of grants to recovery schools. The Senate Committee on Health Care has scheduled a work session for SB 538 on March 13. This bill would allow parents to be paid for their in-home care of children with extremely high behavioral health or medical needs. Early Learning and Child Care By Katie Riley During the week of March 3rd, the Joint Committee on Ways & Means on Education heard informational reports from the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC). The reports were extensive and covered 3 1/2 days of the committee's schedule followed by the other 1/2 of a committee meeting devoted to public testimony. DELC is asking for significant increases in funding for its programs. All public testimony was supportive, including testimony submitted by LWVOR for the SB 5514 funding bill. Our testimony particularly prioritized funding for Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) which subsidizes child care of people at 200% or below the federal poverty level who need child care to work or go to school. The ERDC waitlist went from over 8,500 in December 2024 to a current level of 10,000. Its increase over the past two year is partially accounted for by a change in priorities adopted by previous legislation which prioritizes people receiving TANF (food stamps) to jump to the beginning of the list. The LWVOR board has approved the positions resulting from the Caring for Our Children update and expansion of the 1989 child care study. These positions are now available for LWVOR to use in testimony. SB 896 has been submitted for funding afterschool grant programs but it is unclear how it will align with the Governor's budget. The Governor's bill, HB 3039 for summer and after school care is expected to be submitted with a funding amount attached on March 17. We do not know the amount that will be associated with it. It is expected that the grants associated with the bill will be processed by the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) to school districts based on those most in need, similar to last year's process. It is predicted that the funds will mostly cover costs for summer school and contracts for afterschool care by community based organizations will be awarded by school districts. More details to follow. Education By Jean Pierce The March 3rd Education Legislative Report noted that an American Institute for Research (AIR) report commissioned by the Oregon Government recommended an increase of more than $5000 per student in order to bring Oregon’s educational outcomes up to an adequate level. As of fall, 2024, 545,088 students are enrolled in K-12 public schools in the state. This means that close to three billion in additional education funding would be required to help the state hit its performance targets of adequacy. In her 2025-2027 budget proposal, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek proposed $11.36 billion for the State School Fund, which finances K-12 public education. This represents an increase of more than 600 million, which potentially could be used to help the state make some progress towards its goals. At the same time, our legislators are trying to analyze how a number of recent actions taken by the federal administration will affect our education funding. On March 3rd, Linda McMahon was confirmed as the Federal Secretary of Education. It has been widely reported that the President would like to eliminate the Department of Education, but that would take an act of Congress, which is not likely. Nevertheless, McMahon takes seriously her task of drastically cutting federal spending in education. Currently, federal funding accounts for more than $1 billion of Oregon’s annual education budget. McMahon has told the U.S. Senate Committee on Health Education Labor and Pensions that federal funding would continue for Title I programs for low-income school districts and for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. However, at this point, with federal cuts in jobs, agencies, and office space, it is unclear how that funding will be administered. Further, funding cuts for these programs and others, such as free and reduced lunches, has been threatened if schools do not eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. In postsecondary education, Title IV (financial aid for students in higher education) and student loans appear to be contingent on universities taking steps to rescind DEI programs. The loss of financial support for higher education students would be devastating, considering the fact that they need help meeting not only the high cost of fees and tuition but also the basic needs of food, housing, transportation, and childcare. Over 50% of undergraduates in the country receive student loans from the federal government. Oregon’s universities are already feeling the impact of federal cutbacks, with the loss of research grants On top of these concerns, Legislators in Oregon have a constitutional mandate to balance the state budget. So cuts in federal funding to other programs – i.e. Medicaid, which services one third of the state’s population, may require increased state funding for healthcare, which further jeopardizes funding for education. Housing By Nancy Donovan and Debbie Aiona SB 973 would provide protections to applicants and new tenants by requiring landlords to notify them of the date when a property’s affordability restrictions may end. It will extend the notice requirements from 20 months to 30 months. Unfortunately, Oregon’s publicly-supported affordable housing is not guaranteed to be permanent. By being notified in advance, families and others will have more time to try to find stable housing they can afford. The loss of publicly-supported housing threatens to undo progress we have made in addressing our state’s housing crisis. Passage of this bill will reduce the risk of housing instability, and the possibility of homelessness. The League submitted testimony in support of SB 973. Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) studied the preservation of affordable rental housing in 2023 and created an Affordable Housing Preservation Strategy Framework. The report explains that the state focuses on assisting with maintenance of the physical condition and financial stability of affordable units in return for extending time limits on rent restrictions. They also work to renew federal rent assistance contracts applying to specific properties and preserve affordable manufactured home parks. According to the framework, they estimate that between 2023 and 2033 more than 5,800 units will lose affordability restrictions and many will require recapitalization and rehabilitation. At similar risk are another 5,000 units owned by housing authorities and non-profits. More than 3,100 units with federal rent assistance could require additional subsidy to extend or renew their contracts. It likely will take around $1billion to preserve them all. OHCS provides a dashboard where you can find information specific to your community as well as statewide data. Public Safety By Karen Nibler The House Judiciary Committee listened to testimony on HB 2614 which introduced amendments to the operation of the newly formed Oregon Public Defense Commission. SB 337 (2023) placed the new agency under the Executive Branch for administrative functions. Judges and attorneys have reported a high turnover rate among defense attorneys. The Oregon District Attorney Association supports the independence of the defense attorney association and participates in settlement conferences to resolve cases. The Oregon Criminal Defense Lawyers Association expressed the need to recruit and train new lawyers. High caseloads were described as problematic but the facilitation process varied among county courts. Interested in reading additional reports? Please see our Climate Emergency , Governance , and Natural Resources report sections.

Back to All Legislative Reports Climate Emergency Legislative Report - Week of 3/6 Climate Emergency Team Coordinator: Claudia Keith Coordinator: Claudia Keith Efficient and Resilient Buildings: vacant Energy Policy: Claudia Keith Environmental Justice: vacant Natural Climate Solution Forestry: Josie Koehne Agriculture: vacant Community Resilience & Emergency Management: see Governance LR: Rebecca Gladstone Transportation: see NR LR Joint Ways and Means - Budgets, Lawsuits, Green/Public Banking, Divestment/ESG: Claudia Keith Find additional Climate Change Advocacy volunteers in Natural Resources Climate Emergency Priorities Other CE Bills Clean Energy Clean Building Equity and Environmental Justice Interstate 5 Bridge Project Oregon Economic Analysis Oregon Treasury Climate Related Lawsuits: Oregon and… Climate Priorities By Claudia Keith The League has identified six priority CE policy and budget topics. Find in previous LR reports additional background on each priority. Following are updates on those six topics: 1. Natural and Working Lands : Establishes Natural and Working Lands (NWL) Fund, carbon sequestration opportunities…: Natural Climate Solutions SB 530 . Public Hearing was 2/15/23 in SEN E&E . The League provided supportive testimony . Read Oregon Chapter American Planning Association testimony . Sen Dembrow and OGWC Chair MacDonald testified . Here are the meeting materials . Climate Change Solutions | Newsletter | EESI: “ It's farm bill season on Capitol Hill”. 2. Resilient Buildings (RB): Refer to the adopted Legislative Joint Task Force on Resilient Efficient Buildings (REB) Dec 13 Report . The League is an active RB coalition partner. BR campaign guiding principles . SB 868 , 869 , 870 and 871 were posted 2/9. Find additional LR by Arlene Sherrett below. 3. Environmental Justice (EJ): 2023 Leg bills. The League joined the Worker Advocate Coalition on 2/13 and SB 593 is one of two bills the League will follow and support. The ‘Right to Refuse dangerous work’ SB907 was posted 2/15. 4. Oregon Climate Action Commission (currently Oregon Global Warming Commission): Roadmap , SB 522 , will change "Oregon Global Warming Commission" to "Oregon Climate Action Commission" and modify membership and duties of commission and state greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets/goals. League Testimony . PH was 2/21, highlights: Sen Dembrow’s “ OGWC Modernization Presentation “ and American Planning Association testimony. 5. Other Governor Climate / Carbon Policy Topics: See 20-04 Executive Order topics . This area includes other GHG emission mitigation/reductions and new clean renewable energy (DOE), OHA public health, and ODOT (Dept of Transportation) policy and funding bills. 6. CE related total 2023-2025 biennium budget: The governor’s budget * was published Jan 31; Kotek’s budget priorities . A main funding problem concerns how the favorable ending current period balance, estimated to be >$765M, can be used. It will take a 3/5 vote to pass this proposed change. We provided testimony on the Oregon Dept. of Energy (ODOE) budget ( HB 5016 ), requesting additional agency requests that were not included in the Governor’s budget. Other CE Bills - Supporting By Claudia Keith HB 2763 Creates a State public bank Task Force with Rep Gamba, Sen Golden, Rep Walters. The League provided testimony . Work Session was scheduled for March 9 w -1 amendment . Other CE Bills – May Support By Claudia Keith The League may support or just follow these bills. This is a preliminary list. Natural Working Lands: See Rep Pham’s urban forestry bill, HB 3016 , Rep Holvey’s severance tax bill, HB 3025 to replace the harvest tax, and ODF’s Regular Harvest tax bill, HB 2087 . SB 88 climate smart Ag increases net carbon sequestration and storage in natural and working lands. Requested: Senate Interim Committee on Natural Resources and Wildfire Recovery. See Keep Oregon Cool, Natural Working Lands. Green Infrastructure: HB 3016 community green infrastructure, Rep Pham K, Senator Dembrow, Rep Gamba. Public & Green Banking: SB501 Bank of the state of Oregon Sen Golden. Clean Energy By Greg Martin Senate E&E moves SB 852 The committee unanimously moved SB 852 to the Senate floor with subsequent referral to Joint W&M. The 11-line bill requiring ODOE to "establish a program to provide assistance related to energy projects and activities to environmental justice communities" carries a fiscal impact estimate of $390,315 for hiring one permanent, full-time Operations and Policy Analyst 3 as a "community navigator" who would reach out to connect local and tribal governments and community-based organizations with EJ communities and the technical and financial energy resources they need. Clean Buildings By Arlene Sherrett The House Climate, Energy and Environment Committee will hold work sessions this week on both HB 3166 and HB 3056. HB 3166 a whole-home energy savings program will offer rebates for installing various electric energy high-efficiency devices and will establish a one stop for much needed information on incentives and technical assistance. HB 3056 extends funding for the heat pump grant and rebate program. Resilient Buildings (RB) is a priority for the League and this week we saw draft text for SB 868 , 869 , 870 sent out on Feb 27, 2023. All the bills follow closely with the intent in the one-pagers sent out from Senator Lieber’s office the first part of February. Unfortunately, there is no place online to access the draft bills but information on the background of each bill is available at the Building Resilience website . Access to the task force mailing list is available through Nora Apter at noraa@oeconline.org and you can email me at arlenesherrett3019@gmail.com . I will be glad to forward them to you. SB 871 the State Building energy efficiency bill will come soon. The RBC coordinator estimates that the Senate Energy and Environment hearing will be in mid-March. Refer to the adopted Legislative Joint Task Force on Resilient Efficient Buildings (REB) Dec 13 Report for background. Equity and Environmental Justice By Arlene Sherrett SB 852 will be up for a work session in Senate Energy and Environment this week. The bill directs the Department of Energy to establish a program especially for EJ communities to provide assistance with energy projects and activities. The bill had afirst public hearing Feb 21. The following bills include special provisions for Environmental Justice Communities but may not be exclusively targeted to the needs of those communities. HB 3196 HB 2990 Interstate 5 (I5) Bridge Project By Liz Stewart Interstate 5 (I-5) Bridge project is estimated to cost approximately $6 billion and will be funded using federal and state funds from both Oregon and Washington, as well as tolling. To date, the final design has not been agreed upon. Information on the project and an FAQ can be found at Frequently Asked Questions | I-5 Bridge Replacement Program. The Executive Steering Group has no scheduled meetings at this time. The Community Advisory Group meets every 2nd Thursday of the month from 4-6 pm. The next meeting is April 13. The Equity Advisory Group meets the 3rd Monday of the month from 5:30-7:30 pm. The next meeting is the March 20. The community engagement calendar can be found here . There was a Public Hearing scheduled for February 28 at 5 p.m. on bills related to rail transportation in Oregon, and a Joint Committee meeting on transportation funding in Oregon on March 2 that may likely touch on the topic of the I-5 bridge as well. The Interstate Bridge Replacement Project is in its second round of assessment after the first plans received criticism from several sources . The latest proposal for the bridge is called the Modified Locally Preferred Alternative . Right now, the project is waiting on an environmental review and this LWVOR report will be updated as soon as anything comes out. Next steps from Program Administrator Gregory Johnson: 1. The program’s Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement will be available for public review and comment during a formal public comment period anticipated in 2023. 2. The program will refine and update the cost estimate and financial plan to reflect the key elements identified in the endorsed Modified LPA. 3. An updated financial plan is anticipated in early 2023. Sign up for email on IBR project website to find background on the project or get involved: IBR has several public groups formed to give input on the project. Find out about participation at public meetings here and here . Criticisms on the first proposal: Money: $ 5 -7.5 Billion Some legislators feel the work could be done in phases so costs could be spread out over time. Design: 4% slope is very steep for bikers, walkers and rollers. Height of passage under the bridge doesn’t meet what the coast guard sees as needed. Will light rail be included? Although IBR project leaders seem to agree on including light rail, other public figures have weighed in in dissent . Clark County residents did vote to exclude Light rail during the failed Columbia River Crossing Project a decade ago. Increasing GHG Emissions: More lanes, more GHGs. Oregon Economic Analysis By Claudia Keith The Oregon Economic and Revenue Forecast was released Feb 22. The Oregon Office of Economic Analysis has continued to ignore the recommended SEC Climate Risk disclosure rule. SEC Chair Responds to Questions on Potential Lawsuit on Climate Disclosure , Fast Paced Rulemaking | ThomasReuters. Legislators urge SEC chair to finalize climate disclosure rule | Financial Regulation News. See supportive SEC disclosure LWVOR-initiated LWVUS Testimony , June 2022. Oregon Treasury By Claudia Keith It is unclear how Oregon Treasury / Treasurer Tobias will assist with addressing the $27B Federal funds, contingent on formation of an Oregon Green Bank Up To $27B Available for NPO Clean Energy Activities - The NonProfit Times, Colorado’s green bank mobilizes $118 mil lion in clean energy projects and infrastructure statewide | EIN News HB 2601 Oregon FF Divestment: The League provided supportive testimony for Fossil Fuel (FF) Divestment: … Requires State Treasurer to address the urgency and risk associated with Fossil Fuel energy investments. Chief Sponsors: Rep Pham K, Senator Golden, Rep Gamba. Bill Calls for Oregon to Divest From Fossil Fuels | Chief Investment Officer CIO. Climate Related Lawsuits: Oregon and… By Claudia Keith Numerous lawsuits are challenging Oregon’s DEQ CPP regulations. Here is one example of how to track them. Basically, there are a number of active state and federal lawsuits , (March 2023 update) some of which could assist in meeting Oregon's Net Zero GHG Emissions before 2050 targets and other lawsuits, which challenge current Oregon DEQ CPP policy, which would limit the use of fossil fuels, including diesel, natural gas, and propane over time. Another source: Columbia University Law - Sabin Climate DB lists 62 lawsuits with OREGON mentioned. Climate lawsuits: How dangerous are they for businesses? |TBS. Oregon and PNW News Oregon State University researching method to trap carbon dioxide in building materials | News | kezi.com . Oregon Delegation Announces an Additional $6 Million for Major Energy Efficiency Upgrades at PDX | U.S. Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon National & Global The Scientific Breakthrough That Could Make Batteries Last Longer – WSJ. Senator Whitehouse Puts Climate Change on Budget Committee’s Agenda - The New York Times. Yellen warns climate change may trigger losses in US | The Hill. The Climate Gap and the Color Line — Racial Health Inequities and Climate Change | NEJM. Short-distance migration critical for climate change adaptation – ScienceDaily. A climate education bill , spearheaded by teachers and students, gets a spotlight in Salem - oregonlive.com . Climate change: New idea for sucking up CO2 from air shows promise - BBC News Volunteers Needed By Claudia Keith Request to Local Leagues; please let us know your climate, resilience, or sustainability advocacy actions. Please consider joining the CE portfolio team; we lack volunteers in these critical policy and law areas: Natural and Working lands, specifically Agriculture/ODA Climate Related Lawsuits/Our Children’s Trust Public Health Climate Adaptation (OHA) Regional Solutions / Infrastructure (with NR team) State Procurement Practices (DAS: Dept. of Admin. Services) CE Portfolio State Agency and Commission Budgets Oregon Treasury: ESG investing/Fossil Fuel divestment We collaborate with Natural Resource Action members on many Climate Change mitigation and adaptation policy topics. Volunteers are needed: The 2023 legislative session began Jan 17. If any area of Climate Emergency interests you, please contact Claudia Keith , CE Coordinator. Orientation to Legislative and State Agency advocacy processes is available.