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Dear friends and neighbors,
Time is flying by as we get to work in the Capitol! It has nearly been a month since I was sworn into the 82nd Legislative Assembly on January 9th, 2023. Since then, my team and I have worked hard to propose new legislation, develop relationships with constituents and stakeholders, and prepare for my various committee assignments.
 Oregon House Republicans, 2023 Legislative Session
I have been assigned to the House Committee on Early Childhood and Human Services House Committee on Higher Education and was recently added to the Economic Development and Small Business Committee, which I look forward to given my background as a small business owner. Additionally, I am excited to be serving as Vice-Chair on the House Committee on Business and Labor.
Last Wednesday, January 25th, I had the pleasure of meeting with Mayors, City Managers, and Councilors from throughout House District 24 including McMinnville, Sheridan, and Amity. During our respective meetings I was able to gain a better understanding of the unique needs of each individual community so I can be an effective advocate for you during the 2023 Legislative Session.
This year’s legislative session is set to last from January 17th-June 25th. My legislative priorities for the session include:
Improving trade school access for minors
I am excited to be co-sponsoring House Bill 2722, which would allow minors who are enrolled in a vocational training program to operate power-driven machinery. This bill would make it easier for students to be involved in trade school earlier on, and improves access to career-related learning opportunities.
Safeguarding your tax dollars
Last year it was revealed that state employees who were living out of state were being paid for their commute back to the office. This is not only unequitable to in-state employees who are not reimbursed for travel expenses, but it is also a gross waste of your hard-earned money. I am proud to have signed on to Senate Bill 853, which is sponsored by every single State Senator and a large number of State Representatives on both sides of the aisle.
Restoring education standards
When the Department of Education decided to remove proficiency standards, learning outcomes for students across the district suffered. House Bill 3184 would remove the suspension of requirements showing proficiency in Essential Learning Skills. In essence: in order to earn a diploma, our kids would need to show that they are proficient in Essential Learning Skills. I have heard from teachers across the district that we have to get our kids back on track and hold them to a standard of learning. This bill is the first step of many to do exactly that.
A great way to participate in the legislative process is by signing up to testify before a committee, and tell legislators how a particular bill impacts you.
Please note that this process has recently changed. You must now register in advance to provide in-person or virtual testimony during a committee. Registration closes 30 minutes prior to the scheduled start time of the meeting.
In addition to testifying both in person and remotely, you can also submit written testimony on any given bill. You can read more on how to submit written testimony here.
More details on how to testify are available at this link.
I am grateful that I am not going on this new journey of legislating alone! Not only have I enjoyed making friends with colleagues all throughout the Capitol, but I am also joined by my staff, who are available to help me help you -- the constituents of House District 24. If you get in touch with my office, you are likely to interface with Kyle, Anna, or Jillian. You'll find more information about each of them below.
Kyle Olsen: Kyle is a long standing resident of Yamhill County with more than 34 years of correctional and law enforcement experience. He has held executive leadership positions since 2010 and is an expert in managing crisis situations. As my Chief of Staff, he sets goals and objectives to manage all aspects within the office conducive to accomplishing goals with the highest standards. He is extremely proud to serve my office, constituents and the businesses of House District 24.
Anna Sovereign: As my Legislative Director, Anna covers all things policy related for my office. She researches legislation and keeps me prepared for committee meetings. An Oregon native, Anna has been working in the State Legislature since graduating from George Fox University in 2020. She enjoys cooking, paddle boarding, and spending time with her friends and family.
Jillian Studer: Jillian is a Salem native and recent Doctoral graduate from the Physical Therapy program at George Fox University. As my Legislative Assistant, she uses her background in healthcare and administration to assist with research, organization, and communications. Recently married, she now resides in District 24 where she enjoys spending time with her family and friends.
 Left to right: Kyle, Jillian, me, Anna
In order to best represent you, I rely on your voice and input. Please contact my office with any questions or concerns that you might have. I can be reached at Rep.LucettaElmer@oregonlegislature.gov or 503-986-1424.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve you. My door is always open!
Sincerely,
 Lucetta Elmer
State Representative
House District 24
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1424
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-374, Salem, Oregon 97301
Email: Rep.LucettaElmer@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/elmer
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