Friends,
We’ve been on the House Floor all week this week. The week before that, committees were taking a final look at legislation before each law went to the floor for discussion and a vote. All the while, I’ve been staying in contact with the community to learn about what matters most to you.
When considering legislation, I always take into account how every new law I consider will impact South Salem and all Oregonians. I’m a trial attorney and before every trial I want to learn the universe of all the facts of the case; I want to do the same thing in the legislature before casting my vote. I want to be sure how each law impacts the people of South Salem and all Oregonians.
I’m committed to moving Oregon forward with every vote I cast on the House Floor.
House Bills are moving to the Senate and Senate Bills are moving to the House
We are halfway through the legislative session. This means House Bills are going to the Senate and vice versa for final decisions. For all this to happen, we are debating legislation on the House Floor and the days are getting long. But we’re moving Oregon forward.
I always take into account what the people in South Salem think about bills that come before me. If there are any specific Senate or House bills you’re interested in, feel free to connect with my office to share your thoughts.
Here is some legislation we’ve debated recently. Visit OLIS to find legislation that matters to you and learn how I voted. Or you can give me a call.
|
Leveling the imbalance between employers and workers negotiating settlements.
The first piece of legislation that I am Chief Sponsoring passed out of the House this week and is on to the Senate. I’ve practiced worker’s compensation law for 36 years and I know that it's often the case that workers are taken advantage of by their employers. The bill concerns matters of worker’s compensation and levels the power imbalance between employers and their employees when negotiating settlements. I will always stand on the side of those organizing for safe and equal workplaces in Oregon.
|
Bringing more green energy and solar panels to Oregon
I was the carrier for HB 3055 and it passed on the House Floor. HB 3055 invites development of solar energy and its capture in Oregon and builds our resiliency by allowing for long-term battery storage of energy collected from the sun. This bill stimulates building local renewable energy projects, bringing jobs and energy sector growth to Oregon. This bill also makes Oregon more resilient and moves us to a more sustainable future.
Semiconductors in Oregon
Oregon has long been a hub for innovation leadership. That’s why the legislature passed SB4, a bill that will bring jobs and spur more innovation in our state. This bill will strengthen the economy and create well-paying jobs which means we will have more to invest for the people of Oregon and our future.
As we’ve discussed this legislation, one concern about the bill that resonated with me was the impact manufacturing of semiconductors may have on our environment. We must address our Climate Crisis and not create any further harm. I am confident that the bill sponsors listened to my and other Democrats’ concerns and amended the bill in a way that lessens impacts on the environment, including setting up guardrails so there is minimal harm, our groundwater is protected, and our land is respected.
I have always believed that the best legislation includes compromise and discussion. Both sides of the conversation may not get everything they want, but the important thing is that we are moving the matter forward. I’m working for the best solutions to come out of our legislature and I’m confident the way that Oregon brings semiconductor jobs here is going to lead the country.
In the community
Yaquina Hall Grand Opening
The work on turning the former house for nurses into 52 affordable apartments began several years ago while I was serving on the Salem City Council. Yaquina Hall is nearly finished, which is a great thing for the people who will live there. This project will improve the community. The need for affordable housing in Salem is acute. This project is proof of a continued focus in expanding affordability in Salem to address our homelessness crisis. The Yaquina Hall project reflects many years of hard work by the city and its partners at the state and local level. Transforming a former dorm for nurses into a modern complex of single room apartments is no small task. When it comes to addressing the housing crisis, Salem does it smart and invests in long-term and sustainable solutions.
|
|
Arbor Day Tree Planting
Last weekend I joined fellow community members in planting trees at the Yoshikai Elementary School. This event gave me the opportunity to do two things that I love, getting to know new people and working to help and clean our environment and our home. Tree planting is important as trees play a big role in cleaning our air and being the habitat to many of the wildlife that roam our beloved state!
|
|
 |
Neighborhood Association Meetings
This week, I went to two Neighborhood Association meetings - one in Morningside and another in Gateway. Before serving in public office, I was a Neighborhood Association leader. I believe our community is strongest when we speak out and work together to elevate the issues that matter most.
Legislative Town Hall
Join me for my first Town Hall on Saturday May 13th! This event will be taking place at the Salem Public Library, 11:00am-12:00pm. How can your government work for you? Stop by and express your concerns, ask questions, and join me in a lively discussion on what your government can do for you. I am always open to hearing your opinions and gaining new insight! I look forward to seeing all of you at our first Legislative Town Hall. Feel more than welcome to talk to my office if you have any questions about our event!
|
Constituent Meetings
My door is always open for conversations with constituents and recently, I’ve had many. I welcomed students from the University of Oregon, members of the Food For All Oregonians coalition, musicians, and realtors working to help future homeowners find a home in South Salem.
Thanks to those who visited. All are welcome.
|
Resources for You
My legislative website is updated! We’re constantly adding new information for you. Recently, we added a page for BIPOC community members and a page that highlights the Chief Clerk’s Page Program that is now open for applications.
Check back soon for a page for Constituent Resources.
These days, despite being long, are fun and purpose filled. I’m committed to continuing each day serving the local community’s best interest, addressing our climate crisis, improving public safety, advancing public education, and working for you.
Yours truly,
Tom
Representative Tom Andersen
House District 19
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1419
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-479, Salem, Oregon 97301
Email: Rep.TomAndersen@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/andersen
| 
