Latest Revenue Forecast

This week, the Office of Economic Analysis released its latest quarterly economic and revenue forecast. Thanks to smart investments made by Oregon leadership, we continue to see a robust economic recovery from the effects of the past nearly two years. We can ensure that trend continues by investing in our education and health care systems, and by supporting our frontline workers. In doing so, we help individuals and families to make ends meet, and set Oregon up for future success.

Find more about the latest revenue forecast on the Office of Economic Analysis’ blog here. You can also read statements from the Senate Majority Leader and the Governor on the release.

Image via Oregon Office of Economic Analysis

Fall Town Hall Announcement

I will be holding a fall town hall on Monday, November 29 at 6PM on Zoom. You must register at this link in order to access the event. I encourage folks to come and learn about what the legislature has been up to during the 2021 interim, and what you can expect to see in the coming 2022 legislative session. 

Please continue to send questions in advance of the town hall at this link, or in your Zoom registration. Because our time is limited, any questions not addressed during the town hall may be sent to my Legislative Director, Kenzy Seifert, at Kenzy.Seifert@oregonlegislature.gov. I look forward to seeing you virtually.

Vaccine CDC Approved for Kids 5-11

Earlier this month, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) began recommending that children 5 to 11 years old be vaccinated against COVID-19 with the Pfizer-BioNTech pediatric vaccine. This recommendation made 28 million children in the United States in this age group eligible to be vaccinated against COVID-19, bringing us one step closer to ending the threat of this terrible virus.

COVID-19 vaccines are, and continue to be, subjected to the most intensive safety monitoring in our country’s history—they are both safe and highly effective. Vaccinating children reduces their risk of contracting the virus and suffering severe disease, hospitalizations, or developing long-term COVID-19 complications. Getting your children vaccinated is our strongest tool for protecting them against the virus, and reduces disruptions to in-person learning and activities by helping curb community transmission.

Speak with your pediatrician about getting your kiddos vaccinated, or take a look at this resource page from Eugene 4J School District.

Veterans Day 2021

Happy belated Veterans Day to Oregonians who have served, and to their families. I am deeply grateful for the sacrifices veterans and their families have made and continue to make in defense of this great nation. You set the example for service above self, dedication to community, and a commitment to a safe and just future for this country. I am proud to count myself as one of you.

This year, I had the opportunity to honor our veterans in person—particularly our Vietnam War veterans—with the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs at the Statewide Veterans Day Celebration in front of the State Capitol in Salem. I wish to note that I am especially grateful for our Native American veterans, and I thank the Grand Ronde Honor Guard for presenting and retiring the colors during the Veterans Day Celebration. You can find a recording of the event at this link, and my own contribution around the 32:15 minute mark.

Photo Credit: Kenzy Seifert, 2021

National Native American Heritage Month

November is National Native American Heritage Month—an important time to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures of Indigenous communities around the country, and to acknowledge the contributions and history of Native Americans. In particular, I want to encourage folks to take the time to learn about Oregon’s nine federally recognized tribes, and the peoples who originally inhabited the land on which you live. 

The Willamette Valley is the original homeland of the Kalapuya Tribes, who are now mostly members of the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde and the Confederated Tribes of Siletz. You can learn about the history of the Kalapuya people in the Eugene and Springfield area here and here. Portland’s Five Oaks Museum also offers an online exhibition of Kalapuyan history and culture, including works by local and other Indigenous artists.

Transgender Day of Remembrance

Saturday, November 20, 2021 marks Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR)—a time for us to honor and mourn those of our neighbors who lost their lives to acts of anti-transgender violence. I am sorry to say that this year marks the deadliest year on record for members of the trans community.

Oregon became the 14th state to ban the LGBTQ Panic Defense this year, further strengthening already robust protections for queer and trans Oregonians. At the same time, however, a wave of anti-trans policies—particularly weaponized against trans youth—was touted across the country. It is clear that we continue to have work to do and progress to make in order to guarantee safety and inclusion for all of our queer and transgender neighbors.

For those in the Eugene area wishing to observe TDOR, you may be interested in the gathering and candle ceremony at the Unitarian Universalist Church from 5-7PM on 11/20 at 1685 W 13th Ave.

Click the image to visit the website.

BIPOC Caucus Statement - Rittenhouse Verdict

Friends and neighbors, please take the time to read the following statement from the Legislative Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) Caucus released in response to the acquittal of Kyle Rittenhouse in Kenosha, WI. My heart is with the friends, family, and communities of the dead and wounded whose grief is greater tonight because of this verdict.

November Birthdays

Closing Message

It is an honor and a pleasure to serve our community. May you and your loved ones observe Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, and the rest of our end-of-fall and winter holidays with reflection and joy.

Please let me know if you need any assistance. My office and I will work to connect you with resources and get your questions answered as quickly as possible.

Staff Information

Kenzy Seifert Legislative Director Kenzy.Seifert@oregonlegislature.gov (she/her)

Capitol Phone:  503-986-1707    District Phone:  541-321-5082
Capitol Address:  900 Court St. NE, S-205, Salem, Oregon 97301
Email:  sen.jamesmanning@oregonlegislature.gov

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