Rep. Dave Gomberg: “A Tepid Forecast”
In his May 19 newsletter, State Rep. David Gomberg discusses the challenges facing Oregon’s legislature as it prepares the 2025-27 state budget. Rep. Gomberg points out that the state will have approximately $500 million less than expected even a few months ago and how tariff confusion impacts Oregon disproportionally. READ THE UPDATE
Wyden Wire: Update from Sen. Ron Wyden
In the May 1 edition of Wyden Wire, US Senator Ron Wyden offers the several updates to Oregonians: Tackling Trump’s tariffs Voting on Trump’s nominee for Social Security Commissioner Creating affordable housing Establishing clear guidelines to prevent the illegal diversion of firearms sold abroad Demanding Trump walk back dangerous claims he’ll transfer US citizens to a foreign prison Statewide town halls READ THE UPDATE
Vote for Democrats This May!
The May 20 election is coming up quick. And if you’re not yet registered to vote in Lincoln County, that deadline is coming even quicker. Check your registration status or get registered by April 29. Below are your democratic candidates running for local office throughout the county.
News From Rep. Dave Gomberg
In his April 21 newsletter, State Rep. David Gomberg focuses on the how the state legislature’s current debate over lodging taxes will affect Lincoln County. Rep. Gomberg’s update also offers insight into Oregon’s legislative process at the halfway point. It’s a great opportunity to learn how your local elected officials go to work for you in Salem. READ THE UPDATE
March 2025 Oregon Legislative Update
Oregon Budget: More than 31% of the state’s budget comes from the federal government.And unlike the federal government, Oregon’s constitution requires we passa balanced state budget. Paying for the increased costs of what we are alreadydoing while also dealing with dramatically reduced federal spending will makethis a very challenging budget year. Education: This year, there is a huge push to pump more money into Oregon schools,beyond the $11.3 billion proposed by Governor Kotek for the next two years.The aim is to stave off looming cuts as districts prepare to shed counselors,educational assistants, and librarians to reflect decreased student enrollmentand rising labor costs. Transportation: Law makers tasked themselves with (HB 2157) of coming up with a plan tosustainably fund Oregon’s transportation needs. The Oregon Department ofTransportation estimates it needs $1.8 billion more each year to pay for roadmaintenance and repairs, and that number doesn’t include expensive projectslike the Interstate 5 bridge connecting Portland and Washington. Energy: HB 3336 – Grid Enhancing Technologies – hardware or software innovationsthat allow the electricity transmission system to operate more efficiently. HB 3628 – Oregon Electric Transmission Authority – this bill would create anOregon Electric Transmission Authority to assess how to upgrade theelectricity transmission system at low cost. The bill specifies the structure ofthe new Authority, including its Board of Directors, Staff and Budget. Environment: Critical Energy Infrastructure Hub (Oil Storage) Task Force – 90% ofOregon’s oil storage is in Portland along the Willamette river. Get more familiar with this issue by joining MCAT at: mcat-climate.orga. Watch this video (3 ½ min.) Stop the Spill videob. Review this CEI Hub Bills Fact Sheet with bills talking pointsc. Read MCAT summaries for HB 3450, HB 2949, HB 2152, HB2151 Submit written testimony for all four bills: ERA Petition If you haven’t signed the petition to put the Equal Rights for All Amendment on the ballot, you can do so using “single serving” petition document below. Just print the sheet out, sign it, and mail it to: Equal Rights for All PO Box 40625 Portland, OR 97240 Print, sign, and mail this petition
Jo Beaudreau Meet & Greet
Meet the Democratic Candidate for State Senate on July 18, 4pm at Pelican Brewery in Lincoln City.