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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Yesterday evening, the Oregon Legislature successfully wrapped up our second special session of the year. I'm incredibly proud of the work that legislators put in to address crucial issues across our state. Please see below for a summary of some of our key session accomplishments:
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Housing: thanks to the leadership of Senator Kayse Jama and Representative Julie Fahey, we will invest $215 million to prevent winter evictions. Oregon families across the state—whether they live in a rural, suburban or urban community—will all benefit from these important housing protections.
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Drought relief: we will provide $100 million to help Oregonians impacted by last summer’s extreme heat and drought conditions. This will help ensure rural communities have the resources they need to respond to terrible drought and wildfire impacts. I strongly support Oregon’s agricultural community, farmworkers and Tribes and I look forward to working toward solutions as we prepare for the 2022 Legislative Session.
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Illegal cannabis suppression: thanks to the leadership of Senator Jeff Golden, we will provide $25 million for a comprehensive, statewide plan to address the proliferation of illegal cannabis and ease the humanitarian and environmental impacts of the cartel industry.
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Afghan refugee resettlement: thanks to the leadership of Senator Kayse Jama and Representative Khanh Pham, we will provide $18 million to support the resettlement of Afghan refugees in Oregon.
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Gun violence prevention: thanks to the leadership of Senator Chris Gorsek, we will provide $2 million for outreach, prevention and intervention programs in East Multnomah County.
It took weeks of preparation and careful negotiations to responsibly get these crucial proposals across the finish line.
Happy holidays to you and your families.
Serving in the legislature is busy, with back-to-back-to-back meetings, committee hearings, and floor votes on dozens of pieces of legislation. But there are special moments that stick with you, that you know you'll remember. The swearing in ceremony for Senator Akasha Lawrence Spence was one of those moments. From Justice Adrienne Nelson administering the oath of office, to the gathering of a wonderful group of legislators, to the holiday decorations adorning the Senate Chamber, this was a truly memorable morning.
Welcome to the Senate, Senator Lawrence Spence. My wife Laurie and I were so excited to be there with on this special day for the Oregon Senate. I look forward to working with you!
   
Earlier this month, I had the exciting opportunity to tour Clackamas Community College's Oregon City Campus with my amazing colleagues (and leaders in Clackamas County) Representative Mark Meek and Representative Jeff Reardon. Thank you to CCC President Tim Cook for showing us around the campus and for all that you're doing to assist students, especially our veterans, with their education. The recently completed Wacheno Welcome Center is a phenomenal space that will serve students and community for many years to come - you can learn more about the facility by watching the grand opening remarks. I'm proud to support the essential role of community colleges across our state.
  
  
There is still much to learn about the Omicron variant of COVID-19. We do know that viruses mutate or change constantly. To help you better understand what's happening and how Oregon is preparing, view OHA’s questions and answers about the Omicron variant. If you're eligible for a booster shot, please sign up as soon as possible to protect yourself and others.
Please also take the time to review any information you receive from questionable sources - the SIFT method (see graphic below) can help.
As we head toward joyous holiday celebrations and a new year, I'm looking forward to time with my family and an opportunity to reflect on the work ahead of us.
We continue to owe a huge debt of gratitude to our healthcare professionals, educators, firefighters, and all frontline workers for showing us what heroism and sacrifice look like in the face of uncertainty. Despite political polarization - historic reinvestment and revitalization are underway. Together, we are working with our local communities to build a brighter Oregon with equitable and inclusive opportunity for all.
As always, please let me know if you need any assistance. My office will work to connect you with resources and get your questions answered as quickly as possible. It's an honor to serve you and I wish you and your families seasons greetings, a Merry Christmas, and happy holidays.
Warmly,
 Oregon Senate Majority Leader Rob Wagner
Senate District 19
email: Sen.RobWagner@OregonLegislature.gov I phone: 503-986-1719
address: 900 Court St NE, S-223, Salem, OR, 97301
website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/wagner
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