Supreme Court Keeps Measure 114 Blocked
We’ve been receiving a lot of questions about the status of Measure 114, and when or if it will be going into effect. It can be hard to make heads or tails of what is happening in the Courts, so I want give you an update on the latest as Measure 114 makes its way through the litigation process.
Late last week, we saw the Oregon Supreme Court deny the State’s mandamus petition (an attempt to overturn the temporary restraining order put in place by a State Court Judge in Harney County which would allow Measure 114 to go into effect).
So, as it is, Measure 114 is still not enforceable. It will remain unenforceable until the trial court renders a final decision as to whether the measure is constitutional under Article 1, Section 27 of the Oregon Constitution (even then, either action will likely go to the appellate courts before it will take effect).
This is a victory for everyday Oregonians who feel helpless as their 2nd Amendment rights are being stripped away. I would encourage you to stay engaged (and patient for a final decision) as the courts continue to debate the constitutionality of this horrible measure.
HB 2645 A - Tougher sentencing for fentanyl – PASSED THE HOUSE
This bill is a step in the right direction to fight against the deadly fentanyl crisis. It criminalizes possession of one gram or more of fentanyl, and runs counter to the failed polices instituted by Measure 110. But like I stated Tuesday on the House Floor, this will not solve the fentanyl crisis, we need to do more if we are serious about keeping Oregonians safe (HB 2906 would be a much better fix, please consider emailing the committee to request a hearing!)
SB 728 - Firefighter tax credit – PASSED OUT OF FIRST COMMITTEE
I am thrilled that the firefighter tax credit bill has passed its first committee unanimously and is one step closer to becoming law. Volunteer firefighters have given so much to our rural communities, and this bill will help reward them with something more than simple gratitude. Please consider supporting our volunteer firefighters by asking members of the Joint Tax Expenditures Committee for a Public Hearing!
SB 779 – More difficult to hire a Police Officer
This bill requires law enforcement units with over 50 members to only hire new members if they have a bachelor's degree—and only gives 4 years to obtain a bachelor’s degree to existing officers (a 4 year degree!) This will make it harder for departments to hire new recruits to fill staffing shortages, leaving our communities less safe.
SB 199 – Threat to controlling farm predators
Takes the authority around controlling predatory animals out of the hands of the Oregon Department of Agriculture and transfers it to Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife—where broad rulemaking authority can erode farmers’ ability to have adequate controls over devastating pests and predatory animals.
HJR 5 – Protects your right to hunt and fish
This Resolution would put a constitutional amendment before voters to make the right to hunt and fish a constitutional right. With a growing sentiment against any killing of animals (even predators), this bill would be a proactive approach to protecting rural Oregonians’ way of life.
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This week, I want to extend congratulations to the Lebanon High School Cheerleaders on their back-to-back State Championships! Last Saturday, our Warriors competed at the State OSAA Cheer competition, and came out on top in the 5A Division. I wish them nothing but the best on their future athletic and scholastic endeavors! Here is a link to a short speech I gave on the House Floor honoring them.
Way to go Warriors!
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Do you know of anyone in House District 11 who deserves to be acknowledged? Send us your nominations at (Rep.JamiCate@oregonlegislature.gov)
Final Day for Sweet Home's Cedar Shack!
Today, Sweet Home will say goodbye to a true staple of our community. The Cedar Shack Drive In was a spot generations of Linn County residents flocked to for delicious burgers and mouth-watering milkshakes. Don't miss your chance to stop by one last time today, on Friday, February 17th before Cedar Shack permanently closes its doors.
Mark Your Calendar: Build Lebanon Trails!
On March 11th, Build Lebanon Trails (BLT) invites you to join them on a walk around Cheadle Lake Park Trails. This is a great opportunity to explore the area, and to become aware of all the improvements that are being planned for 2023 and 2024.
Last but not least, your furry friends are welcome to come along--as long as they're on a leash! BLT hopes to see as many members of our community as possible.
Opening Ceremonies: Your Moment to Shine!
Do you sing? Read poetry? Play an instrument? Pray? Then we have a job for you!
Every Floor Session in the House of Representatives starts with “Opening Ceremonies”, and is a great way to showcase the talents found across the state. Guidelines for Opening Ceremonies are below, but if you’re interested in being a ceremonial part of the 82nd Legislative Session, let me know! My office can help coordinate with the Chief Clerk’s office to get you on the calendar.
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