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Hello Friends and Happy Saturday!
We have reached the end of the third week of the 2023 Legislative Session, and what a whirlwind it's already been. Serving on four policy committees, meeting with constituents and lobby, voting on the House Floor, and tracking the bills I introduced this session has kept me busy!
I hope you find this update helpful. As always, please reach out to my office with any questions or concerns. Your support and engagement is greatly appreciated!
Sincerely,
 Anna Scharf
State Representative - HD 23
Governor Kotek released her recommended budget this week, highlighting an almost 9% increase since the last biennium. Click here to see budget details.
Please see some of the below legislation I have been working hard on to gain bi-partisan support which promote common sense policies that will benefit all of Oregon. Although I have many more bills I am working on, here are a few highlights that have gained traction so far. Click here to see a full list of the bills I introduced this session which has kept me and my staff busy.
HB 2711 - Directs ODHS (Oregon Department of Human Services) to consider the previous resource family of the child first, even if the family is not currently certified. As long as they are willing and can be recertified through the existing emergency certification process then they should be the chosen placement for the child while the child is in the care of the state. You can learn more about this important legislation by viewing my testimony here.
HB 2706 - Expands the foster youth tuition assistance program by removing the requirement of not leaving foster care prior to the age of 16. You can learn more about this important legislation by viewing my testimony here.
HB 2438 - Proposes a fix to current practices in ODHS requiring any decisions ODHS implements that contradict the recommendations of the mental health professionals will need to be presented in court. Evidence must be shown the child is not being harmed and their wellbeing is improved by not following the recommendations of the mental health professional. You can learn more about this important legislation by viewing my testimony here.
Pictured with students and staff from Catalyst High School in Newberg
 City Day at the Capitol - Pictured with Dayton and Independence City Managers
 Pictured with CASA Director Jones and Director App supporting HB 2706
SEDCOR Polk County Ag Breakfast with Abisha Stone & Alex Parashevas
 Oregon Right to Life March with Reps. Diehl, Cramer, and Mannix
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1423
Capitol Address: 900 Court St NE, H-387, Salem, OR 97301
Email: Rep.AnnaScharf@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/scharf
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