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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Today on National Gun Violence Awareness Day everyone is encouraged to wear orange to raise awareness for action on gun violence and to honor those whose lives have been taken or forever changed by senseless and preventable gun violence. Here’s where to find a “wear orange” event near you: wearorange.org/
Guns are the number one killer of children in the U.S—more than car accidents or cancer. I know that you care about this issue and about keeping our children safe, just as I do. I have received countless letters in the past week asking, demanding, and even begging that something be done to end this epidemic.
In Oregon, we’re committed to taking bold action and passing common sense gun safety laws that save lives. We have already taken some very important steps that make Oregon a national leader in the fight against gun violence. Here is a list of significant pieces of legislation have passed here, and that the majority of Oregonians support:
Keeping Guns Out of the Hands of Domestic Abusers (SB 525 - 2015): Aligned Oregon law with the federal Violence Against Women Act to keep firearms away from domestic abusers.
Expanding Criminal Background Checks for Private Gun Sales (SB 941 - 2015): Closed the loophole that allowed violent criminals and domestic abusers to purchase firearms online or through private sales without a criminal background check.
Extreme Risk Protection Order (SB 719 - 2017): Allowed loved ones and doctors to petition the court for an Extreme Risk Protection Order to prevent suicides and shootings resulting from moments of extreme mental distress.
Gun Violence Prevention (HB 4145 - 2018): Protected survivors of domestic violence by preventing people convicted of stalking and domestic violence, or under restraining orders, from buying or owning firearms and ammunition.
Firearm Removal for Stalkers and Domestic Abusers (HB 2013 - 2019): Closed the “restraining order loophole” in current law and created protocols by which the courts and law enforcement can ensure that people who have domestic violence convictions or stalking or restraining orders do not in fact possess firearms.
Gun Storage and Safety in Public Places (SB 554 - 2021): Required guns be stored safely and allowed the boards of public universities, community colleges, and school districts to prohibit concealed carry of firearms on campuses.
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LEGISLATIVE DAYS: JUNE 1-3
What Are Legislative Days?
In the Oregon Legislature, Legislative Days are a time when committees hold informational hearings on a variety of topics, but do not vote on policy or pass legislation. Topics can often be ones that may lead to legislation in upcoming sessions or committees may hear updates on previous bill implementations. Many committees will hear reports from state agencies and Task Forces or consider testimony regarding current subject areas affecting Oregonians. For example, I serve as a Vice-Chair on the House Interim Committee On Agriculture, Land Use, and Water and on Wednesday we heard a presentation from the Oregon Farm Bureau and farmers across several industries about the impacts of market conditions on Oregon producers. We also heard updates on the very serious and ongoing drought in Oregon and on Legislative investments from the Oregon Water Resources Department. You can watch a recording of the Agriculture, Land Use, and Water hearing from Wednesday, June 1st.
Another function of Legislative Days is to consider grant applications from departments and to ensure that agencies have adequate funding to finish the budget cycles. These budgetary issues are considered through the full Emergency Board, of which I am a member. Similar to the Ways and Means Committee, the Emergency Board has subcommittees that consider grant applications and funding requests before the full board does. I am Co-Chair of the Emergency Board Subcommittee On Education and on Wednesday we heard a variety of consent grant requests from agencies in need of increased funding in this budget cycle. You can view the Emergency Board and Emergency Board Subcommittee on Education hearings here:
The Joint Committee On Transportation, which I Co-Chair with Senator Lee Beyer, also met on Friday morning to receive important updates on funding for major transportation projects across the state. In addition, we received an update from the Department of Motor Vehicles regarding staffing challenges and opportunities. The Committee will reconvene again this month to hear updates on the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program. You can view the hearing and presentation slide shows here.
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I-5 BRIDGE REPLACEMENT UPDATES
the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program has completed a June 2022 IBR Legislative Progress Report, which provides an overview of key program work that has occurred since the most recent progress report was submitted in December 2021. The progress report (along with past reports) is available in the IBR program library and at the following link:
June 2022 IBR Legislative Progress Report (interstatebridge.org).
Upcoming Meetings
Click link for more details including materials and online meeting links.
In June we recognize Pride Month as an opportunity to celebrate gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and asexual people, plus all other sexual orientations and genders. The month is celebrated in June in commemoration of the Stonewall Riots, which kicked off the first major demonstrations for gay rights in America in 1969.
We have certainly come a long way since the days of the Stonewall Riots, but as events like the Pulse Night Club shooting or increased hate crimes against Trans people show, we still have far to go to ensure equality for all people. I believe it is particularly important to support our youth who identify as LGBTQ+. Some LGBTQ+ youth are more likely than their heterosexual peers to experience negative health and life outcomes. Therefore, It is critical for the parents, guardians, and other family members of LGBTQ+ youth to have access to the resources they need to ensure their LGBT children are protected and supported.
Resources for LGBT Youth and Friends/Supporters
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Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual Teens: Facts for Teens and Their Parents
If you’ve ever wondered if you’re gay, lesbian, or bisexual, you’re not alone. Many teens ask themselves this question, and here are ways to find some answers. For parents and caregivers, finding out your son or daughter is gay, lesbian, or bisexual can present challenges. Learn more about how to be supportive.
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Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN): Student Action
As a student, you have the power to make change in many ways in your school and community.
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Genders & Sexualities Alliance Network
GSA clubs are student-run organizations that unite LGBTQ+ and allied youth to build community and organize around issues impacting them in their schools and communities.
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HealthyChildren.org: Health Concerns for Gay and Lesbian teens
Information for LGBT teens on sexual activity, substance use, mental health, discrimination, and violence.
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It Gets Better Project
The It Gets Better Project inspires people across the globe to share their stories and remind the next generation of LGBTQ+ youth that hope is out there, and it will get better.
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Q Card Project
The Q Card is a simple and easy-to-use communication tool designed to empower LGBTQ youth to become actively engaged in their health, and to support the people who provide their care.
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Q Chat Space
Q Chat Space is a digital LGBTQ+ center where teens join live-chat, professionally facilitated, online support groups. Also available in Spanish (disponible en español).
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Stomp Out Bullying: Making Schools Safe for LGBTQ Community
Schools should be a young person’s primary center for learning, growing, and building a foundation for success in the world. High school can be challenging for any student, but LGBTQ youth face additional obstacles of harassment, abuse, and violence.
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The Trevor Project: Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention
The Trevor Project is a national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25.
AROUND WASHINGTON COUNTY
Mayor Truax Announces Retirement
Mayor Truax has announced that he will not be running for re-election this Fall and will be retiring from elected office instead. After dedicating almost 20 years to the city of Forest Grove, first as a City Councilor and then as our Mayor, I found Mayor Truax's leadership to be thoughtful, passionate, and truly focused on families and local businesses.
Mayor Truax has been at the helm of Forest Grove since 2009, which encompasses the entire time I have served in the State Legislature. I have enjoyed a great working relationship with Pete, and we have always strived to do what is best for Forest Grove. I think back to the 2021 Legislative Session when Oregon had significant funds available for local regions through the American Rescue Plan Act. Mayor Truax was quick to advocate for the needs of our community, and together we worked to allocate $2 million to several worthy causes, including funding improvements to the Forest Grove Senior Center and assisting with the transformation of the Forest Grove Inn into transitional housing for those in need.
Mayor Truax and I were both teachers and coaches for over four decades, which is perhaps why we work so well together. What struck me most about his recent interview in the Forest Grove News-Times was how humble he was about all that he's accomplished and that he took a moment where he was in the spotlight to direct it back to others and their service to our community. In particular, he lifted up our teachers, saying, "Teaching is a noble profession. It's even more essential now than ever, and it gives you a good grounding in how you can help other people." Well, Pete, the highest compliment I can pay you is to say that you're still a teacher at heart and still working hard to help other people. Congratulations on your retirement. You will be missed.
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Forest Grove High School CTE Visit!
Last Friday, I visited Forest Grove High School to observe the fantastic Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities available for our students. I toured classes in mechatronics, the culinary arts, woodworking, anatomy/physiology, and welding, and also visited the esteemed Viking House program.
With roughly 12.3 million students enrolled nationwide, CTE classes aim to prepare students of all ages for success in college and career by helping them develop the skills, technical knowledge, academic rigor, and real-world experience for high-skill, high-demand, highly successful careers.
In Oregon, Forest Grove High School is a leader in CTE education. We need look no further than The Viking House as a clear example of innovation and excellence in education. For those not familiar with The Viking House, it is a hands-on class at Forest Grove High School where students work closely with industry professionals to build homes in the Forest Grove area. These homes are known for their classic details, quality workmanship, and energy efficiency. The program has been running since 1975, and students have completed almost 50 houses. To view the most recently completed house, visit The Viking House website or check out this recent KGW Channel 8 story.
A special thank you to Superintendent Parker for facilitating my visit and to the faculty and students who took the time to demonstrate their work. A particular highlight was receiving my first welding lesson! The CTE classes provided at the High School will create a generation of high-skilled workers who will be able to get good-paying jobs and contribute in significant ways to our economy, which significantly benefits both the city of Forest Grove and Oregon as a whole. As a community, we should all be exceptionally proud of Forest Grove High School and the CTE classes it provides.I
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Ready, Set, Read!: Cornelius Library Summer Reading Challenge
Summer Activities Log: Participate in two prize drawings starting June 1 - August 7 by completing the week's activity and earn a ticket entry to the first or second drawing, either
- Online through Beanstack OR
- On paper, cut out the activity in the Kids Activity Log and return it to the library service desk
- On paper, cut out the activity in the Teens Activity Log and return it to the library service desk
- On paper, cut out the activity in the Adults Activity Log and return it to the library service desk
First drawing held Tuesday, July 5 | Second drawing held Tuesday, August 9
Hillsboro's Summer Activities Guide Is Here!
COVID-19 INFORMATION
Where can I get a vaccine or booster in Washington County?
All of the major health systems are providing COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters. You can use this CDC tool to figure out when to get your booster.
Washington County Vaccine Team: The team is in the community five days a week providing vaccinations at schools, shelters, and other locations. These are walk-in clinics. No appointment, ID, or insurance is required. This schedule lists public clinics only. We are now giving additional boosters at these clinics.
In-home vaccinations: Are you or a loved one unable to get to a vaccine clinic because of a disability or other physical or mental health barrier? See if you qualify for a free in-home vaccination by calling 503-846-8123, emailing us or filling out this form.
Tektronix: This is a walk-up clinic operated by Oregon Health Authority. It is located at 2540 SW Alan Blumlein Way (inside Building 58) in Beaverton. The clinic is open Thursday through Saturday from 12-7 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Beaverton Resource Center: This clinic takes place every Friday inside the Beaverton Resource Center, 13565 SW Walker Road. Make an appointment at Project Access Now's website.
La Mixteca Oaxaca: This clinic is open every Sunday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. It is operated by Oregon Health Authority and Vive NW. It is located at 1050 SE Walnut Street in Hillsboro. No appointments, ID, or health insurance required. Testing is also available at this site. Questions? Call the Vive NW hotline at 844-291-4970.
Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center: Vaccination and testing at the new Hillsboro 7th Avenue clinic (226 SE 7th Ave) is open to all community members. You don't have to be a Virginia Garcia patient. Testing is drive-thru and vaccination is walk-up. Hours are M-F, 9a.m. to 4 p.m. You will need an appointment. Find more information at VG's website.
Centro Cultural: This clinic is located at 1110 N Adair Street in Cornelius. It is open on the last Saturday of each month from 8:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m. No appointment, ID, or health insurance is required. Find more information at Centro's website.
WILDFIRE UPDATES AND RESOURCES
FURst Aid: Disaster preparedness for pets and furry friends
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In this FURst Aid seminar, OSU veterinarians will teach you how to prepare the entire family for an emergency. You will learn disaster preparedness considerations for both small and large animals from members of DAM Vets — the Oregon State University Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine Disaster Action Management Team. Free and open to all.
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Comic Book Explores How to Prevent Northwest Wildfires
The Oregon Office of Emergency Management and Dark Horse Comics have released a new comic book titled, Without Warning! Wildfire. Addressing what to do before and during a Northwest wildfire, the comic is third in a series of educational and entertaining comic books
promoting emergency preparedness.
Without Warning! Wildfire features characters hiking and camping in a Northwest wilderness area who are forced to flee for their lives to escape a quickly moving wildfire. The comic helps teach readers how to protect themselves, their loved ones and wildlands when wildfires occur.
Without Warning! Wildfire is available for free download on mobile devices
The first two comics in the series, Without Warning! Earthquake (published in 2014) and Without Warning! Tsunami (published in 2016), have been distributed throughout the Northwest and adapted for other regions, helping support readiness in communities across the U.S.
Wildfire Resources:
OEM has put together this list of contacts to help speed up the process of replacing these documents:
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Green cards: Phone (800)-375-5283; Website: www.uscis.gov
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Medicare cards: Phone: (800)-772-1213; (TTY) (800)-325-0778 Website: www.medicare.gov
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Military records Phone: 866-272-6272 Website: www.archives.gov/contact/
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Passport Phone: 877-487-2778; (TTY) 888-874-7793 Website: travel.state.gov
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Social Security card Phone: 800-772-1213; (TTY) 800-325-0778 Website: www.ssa.gov
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U.S. Savings Bonds Phone: 844-284-2676 Website: www.treasurydirect.gov
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U.S. tax returns Phone: 800-829-1040 Website: www.irs.gov
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Birth, death, marriage, domestic partnership, divorce certificates Phone: 888-896-4988 Website: www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/Birthdeathcertificates
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Driver’s license, auto titles and registration, ID cards Phone: 503-945-5000 Website: www.oregon.gov/odot
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SNAP (Oregon Trail Card) Website: www.oregon.gov/DHS/Assistance/Food-Benefits
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State taxes (Oregon Dept. of Revenue) Phone: 503-378-4988 or 800-356-4222 TTY: All relay calls are accepted. Website: www.oregon.gov/dor
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Real estate and property - Contact your county government.
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Credit cards - Contact your credit card company directly.
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Credit reports from Equifax, Experian, TransUnion Phone: 877-322-8228 Website: www.annualcreditreport.com
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Insurance documents - Check with your insurance agent.
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Medical records - Call your doctor or your medical insurance company; medical and prescription records are tracked electronically.
The Governor’s office has put together a Wildfire Resources page that you can access from the Governor’s home page. It has links to many of the most important updates about the status of fires and resources for evacuees. This website will be updated regularly.
Legal Resources: Oregon State Bar’s Lawyer Referral Program, Oregon lawyers, through the Oregon State Bar, are partnering with FEMA and the American Red Cross to provide legal assistance on FEMA claims, contract claims, insurance claims, landlord-tenant matters and more.
The Department of Forestry’s Wildfire Response and Recovery Overview has ongoing updates about firefighting efforts, damage reports, and more.
FEMA Updates: FEMA has provided several different Fact Sheets and resources for accessing benefits, determining eligibility and avoiding scams.
VETERANS RESOURCES
Washington County Veterans Resources
American Legion Post 104: (503) 642-4907
American Legion Post 006: (503) 648-7191
Washington County Disability, Aging, and Veteran Services: (503) 846- 3060
Hillsboro VA Clinic: (503) 906-5000
Paws Assisting Veterans: info@paveusa.org
Veterans of Foreign Wars: (503) 895- 1342
Hillsboro Elks Lodge: (503) 648- 1862
Rock Creek Veteran Resources | Veteran Resources at PCC : (971) 722-7743 or 7744
Veterans Support | Pacific University
Mental Health Services:
- Washington County Crisis Line | 503-291-9111
- Crisis Text Line | Text “Connect” to 741741
- Suicide Prevention Lifeline | 1-800-273-8255
- Trevor Lifeline | 1-866-488-7386
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Employers and Employees
The following list of resources is from Oregon’s Secretary of State’s Office. The fastest way to get in touch with the SOS team is by emailing business.sos@oregon.gov, using the “Need Help?” button found on most state agency websites or visiting www.oregon.gov/smallbusiness.
Education Links
Local Government
Utilities Assistance
Food and Housing Assistance
Yours truly,
 Representative Susan McLain
House District 29
email: Rep.SusanMcLain@oregonlegislature.gov I phone: 503-986-1429
address: 900 Court St NE, H-376, Salem, OR 97301
website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/mclain
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