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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
I hope everyone is having a wonderful spring. I would like to give you a quick update on what happened with Senate Bill 978 and where we go from here.
Despite my strong objection, SB 978 was sacrificed as part of a deal negotiated by the Governor to end the Republican walkout. While we are all disappointed that this bill is not be moving forward this session, the end of the walkout allowed for the passage of House Bill 3427. This bill, known as the Student Success Act, is a monumental tax package that provides much-needed funds to struggling Oregon schools and students.
Thank you to everyone who advocated so fiercely for SB 978. We received many emails and phone calls, as well as multiple visits to my office where all of you shared heartfelt stories and reasons for why this bill deserved to pass. I hope that you will continue making your voices heard now and in the future. That is how important issues such as safe storage and giving local authorities the option to not allow firearms in public buildings can soon become law.
Even though we've experienced a setback on SB 978, we aren't done. There is still hope for gun reform this session. I am currently the chief sponsor, along with Rep. Williamson, of House Bill 2013. This bill establishes that individuals such as convicted domestic abusers and stalkers - who are prohibited from having firearms - are required to turn in those firearms to the proper authorities. After passing the House with bipartisan support and passing the Senate Judiciary Committee, we will see this bill on the floor tomorrow.
While this bill does not have all the components that many of you advocated and fought so hard for, it represents another important step in ensuring firearms are used safely and responsibly in Oregon. I will continue pushing for common-sense gun legislation as long as I am in office. I ask for your continued support and advocacy as we move forward.
All the best,
 Senator Ginny Burdick
Senate Majority Leader
District 18
email: Sen.GinnyBurdick@oregonlegislature.gov I phone: 503-986-1718
address: 900 Court St NE, S-223, Salem, OR, 97301
website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/burdick
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