Representatie Brian Clem Session Update

Dear Friends,

As the 77th Legislative Session commences I am excited for the many possibilities it presents.  As we work to climb out of this lingering recession, I will continue to support legislation that creates and protects local jobs, stimulates our state economy and best represents the interests of District 21.

This session I have the privilege of chairing the Land Use Committee, as well as serving as a member of the Health Care and Agriculture and Natural Resource Committees.  In this capacity, I intend to continue to push for honest and fair legislation.

Keeping Jobs Local

• In 2013, I am sponsoring legislation for contracting agencies to report the percent of contracts that are shifted from out of state to Oregon companies; expanding the Buy Oregon First Act from 2011.  This bill not only keeps our tax dollars in State but allows agencies to give small preference to local businesses.  It creates much needed jobs here at home by leveraging the purchasing power of the State. 

Farm to School

• I am also continuing to expand the successful Farm to School Bill from the previous session, which allows schools to be reimbursed up to 15 cents per meal if they use locally grown food.  By promoting locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables, our schools can keep our children healthy while supporting local farmers. 

Annexation

• Since my arrival in 2007, I have been dedicated to ensuring fair annexation policies that curb disingenuous attempts that some cities choose to use when annexing their County neighbors.  In my tenure as your representative I have continually sponsored bills making annexations more fair and will continue to do so in the current session.

• I am currently working on House Bill 2028 that would prohibit a city from requiring you to agree to be annexed when applying for something like a building permit; we call this our “hostage annexation bill.”  Some cities will claim they don’t use this practice, but I’ve met people going door to door that have had this happen to them. 

By working together we can make lasting change. I am always open to hearing your opinions and concerns on issues that impact our community and our state.  You can contact my office at (503)986-1421 or email me at rep.brianclem@state.or.us.