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To contact me, please click here: Rep.SusanMcLain@oregonlegislature.gov
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
We're just wrapping up week three of the 2025 Legislative Session today. My colleagues and I have been hard at work on the issues that matter most to Oregonians. We are building a strong foundation for meaningful progress over the next few months on education, transportation, and budget issues. I am as committed as ever to make the most of each day as State Representative--I will always open my door to a variety of perspectives and ensure every stakeholder has a seat at the table. I am energized by the many dedicated lawmakers, advocates, and constituents who fill the halls of Oregon State Capitol.
Since a new administration has taken office, many community members have reached out to me with uncertainty about national policy changes. I want to acknowledge this outreach with the assurance that here in Oregon, our leaders will continue to stand up for our values. We will use every tool available to protect our friends, families, and neighbors. In the State Legislature, we remain focused on our goal: to make Oregon a place where everyone can thrive.
Here's what you'll find in this week's newsletter:
- Celebrating Black History Month
- Information presented in the Joint Committee on Transportation
- An overview of my newborn screening bill with Rep. Owens
- Learn about Tensy's Law to support paid parent-caregivers
- Current status of the I-5 Bridge project and common FAQs
- Highlights from my meetings and the joint town hall last week
- Community shout outs
- Events and information for Western Washington County
CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Every February, we celebrate Black History Month as a way to recognize the contributions that African Americans have made to our country and to reflect on the painful and enduring legacy of slavery and institutionalized racism. A month of celebration is a meaningful opportunity for people to learn about the layered history, significant achievements, and vibrant culture of African Americans. Still, it is a symbolic act that does not absolve us of our responsibility to persistently acknowledge and challenge the forms of racism that continue to stain our nation.
During our current political climate of uncertainty, I find inspiration and reaffirmation of our nation's potential by remembering the positive changes that African Americans have made despite the discrimination and violence they faced. Shirley Chisholm expanded what was possible for women in leadership as the first Black woman to run for the Democratic presidential nomination, despite being underfunded and underestimated. Ruby Bridges, at just 6 years old, showed bravery beyond her years by walking up the steps of William Frantz Elementary School, despite mountains of verbal abuse. Rosa Parks held her head high in resistance while police shackled her for simply sitting on a bus. Martin Luther King, Jr. changed the world and inspired future leaders like Nelson Mandela through nonviolent resistance. These legacies of perseverance, grace, and defiance are central to our nation's history. May they guide us as we fight for equity and opportunity for all people, and work to strengthen and preserve our democratic values against those who seek to undermine them.
Explore African American History:
Visit the federal African American History Month website for exhibits and collections, teacher resources, events, and more.
Learn about the origins of Black History month on the History Channel website.
Support Black-Owned Businesses and Organizations:
Make a pledge to support local Black-owned businesses and organizations during Black History Month and beyond when you are eating, shopping, and doing business online or in person. Washington County Chamber's Black Advisory Business Council is a culturally specific council working to inspire, empower, and promote the economic growth and sustainability of Black businesses and professionals within Washington County.
Community Organizations:
Washington, Multnomah, and Clackamas Counties are home to many organizations that exist to support, serve, and celebrate Black residents and people of color.
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Community Organizing and Policy:
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Health and Housing:
JOINT TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE UPDATE
After the 12-stop Statewide Tour and 45 hours of Transportation Workgroup meetings this Fall, our efforts to develop the core elements of the Transportation plan are now taking place in the Joint Committee on Transportation (JCT). After hundreds of hours of conversations leading up to the 2025 Session, our JCT work is being guided by the widely-held belief that a safe, reliable, and comprehensive multimodal transportation system is essential to all Oregonians, no matter where they live, what they do for a living, or their political views. The details of how we accomplish this has been, and will continue to be, at the core of all our committee meetings. Keep reading for an overview of some of the essential information we have reviewed in committee so far this session. I have also included links to relevant documents and presentations.
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Review of final reports from each Transportation Workgroup: All three transportation workgroups successfully reviewed extensive amounts of information about our transportation system. Together, the workgroups used the lenses of equity, safety, and environment to identify the critical needs to address in the upcoming Transportation plan. The workgroups focused on three main categories of the transportation package: maintenance and operations (workgroup 1), public and active transit (workgroup 2), and HB2017 priority commitments (workgroup 3). They also recommended revenue streams to support the continued growth of our overstrained multimodal transportation system. At the end of the workgroups, we issued a survey to all workgroup members, and summarized their work and the survey results in a report.
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Review of Oregon's Advanced Clean Trucks Rule: The Advanced Clean Trucks Rule was adopted in Oregon to reduce tailpipe and greenhouse gas emissions through advanced clean technology. The rule requires manufacturers of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles (Class 2b – 8) to sell zero-emission trucks as an increasing percentage of its overall sales from vehicle model year 2025 through 2035.
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Review of House Bill 2017: The last major transportation package Oregon passed was House Bill 2017 in the 2017 Legislative Session. H.B. 2017 (2017) marked a watershed moment in how Oregon prioritizes, improves upon, and funds our Transportation System and made historic Transportation investments in our multimodal system.
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Review of how Oregon and other states fund transportation: Each state funds transportation in a different way and with varying costs to citizens. As we consider how to ensure Oregon's system can be safely maintained and that we have access to multimodal options, we have to work to find sufficient, stable, and diversified funding tools. This requires an understanding of how Oregon currently funds transportation and reviewing funding tools that other states rely on.
HB 3192 - EXPANDING NEWBORN SCREENING
Newborn screening is a critical state service that saves the lives of children born with genetic diseases. Every state has a newborn screening program, and each year, over 12,000 infants in the U.S. are diagnosed with conditions that, if not detected or treated, would cause severe disability or death. Approximately one in 250 babies born annually in Oregon are diagnosed with a treatable condition identified through our newborn screening program. Without newborn screening, treatable conditions present at birth may go undiagnosed for years or even decades, resulting in missed opportunities to access life-changing care and leading to adverse health outcomes for affected children, including premature death.
Regular readers of my newsletter will know that I have been an advocate for newborn screening in Oregon since 2018 and worked on several bills to ensure we have a pristine and nimble process that keeps up-to-date with scientific breakthroughs and centers the experiences and knowledge of families and medical experts. In the 2024 Session, I successfully advocated for $250,000 in funding to test every baby born in Oregon at birth, even those whose families cannot pay. The money subsidizes the costs of newborn screening for families who pay out-of-pocket for the birth of their child. In the first six months, 117 families have taken advantage of the funding and received subsidized screening for their child's birth. This one-time funding has helped to remove the financial barrier that families face and increased access to lifesaving newborn screening that they otherwise would not have had.
This Session, I have teamed up with Representative Mark Owens on House Bill 3192 to continue fighting for increased funding for newborn screening and to expand the number of diseases tested for. The bipartisan bill calls for a $4 million allocation to Oregon's Newborn Screening program to clear the backlog of conditions already approved for addition to the testing panel but are not included yet because of inadequate funding. The approved diseases we are still not testing for are Mucopolysaccharidosis Type II and GAMT Deficiency. The funding would also cover screening for three additional diseases currently in, or likely will soon be in, the review stage for addition to the screening panel: Krabbe, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, and Cytomegalovirus. In addition, it will help purchase testing supplies and hire the necessary personnel to begin screening for these rare and devastating diseases.
Rep. Owens and I are committed to securing the funding necessary for Oregon to have an up-to-date screening process that follows the latest science and ensures that all Oregon families continue to have access to lifesaving testing at birth for as many diseases as possible. Oregon's newborn screening program is essential for improving health outcomes, and the Legislature must commit to funding comprehensive and accessible testing for all babies born here.
SB 538 - TENSY'S LAW
I am one of the sponsors of Senate Bill 538, also known as Tensy's Law, which is an important bill that will expand funding for parents who serve as caretakers for their children with severe medical and behavioral issues.
Background:
The Oregon Legislature passed Senate Bill 91 in 2023 to direct the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) to compensate parents for providing attendant care services to minor children with high medical and behavioral needs through the Children's Extraordinary Needs waiver. These children already qualify for paid caregiver support through the state, but due to workforce shortages, there aren't enough qualified caregivers available to fill these positions. Paying parents as caregivers improves patient medical outcomes since they know their children's needs and conditions better than anyone. It also helps support families that often have reduced incomes because caring for their children makes it difficult to sustain a full-time job for at least one parent. It saves the state money in the long run by cutting health care costs and ensures we meet our legal responsibilities to care for our most vulnerable children.
SB 91 had strong bipartisan support, but the program lacks sufficient funding, and rules were created at the agency level that limit parent hours to only 20 a week, even if a child is allocated significantly more by the state. The result is that 90 percent of eligible children do not get the chance to have a parent as a paid caregiver for their home care.
Tensy's Law:
Tensy’s Law is named to honor of Tennyson "Tensy" Ross. Tensy is one of the more than 1,500 kids who sit on the waitlist for one of just 155 spots in the Children’s Extraordinary Needs waiver program. The bill seeks to eliminate the wait list and remove the limitation on hours that parents can serve and if passed, will mean that parents can fill the entirety of hours allocated by the state. Oregon is already obligated to provide these care hours, and Tensy's Law ensures that the workforce shortage does not leave families without assistance by allowing parents to be the caregiver.
Over the last two years, I have been meeting with the parent advocates behind Tensy's Law and supporting their efforts in any way that I could. They are tireless champions, not just for their own children, but for all children and families in Oregon who are navigating the challenges of having a child with high medical and behavioral health needs. This bill has my full support and I would like to thank Senator Patterson for being the Chief Sponsor and for holding a hearing on the bill in her role as chair of the Senate Committee on Health Care.
BELOW: At the Capitol with Tensy this week on his 10th birthday!
The hearing for Tensy's Law was on Tuesday in the Senate Committee on Health Care. It was a very special day to have it since Tuesday was Tensy's 10th birthday. You can view the hearing by clicking on the image below or here.
To read more about the issue of paying parent caregivers, I recommend the following links:
 
STATEMENT FROM ADMINISTRATOR JOHNSON
With the change in administrations, many people are considering how federal support for the Interstate Bridge Replacement (IBR) Project might change. Here is what IBR program administrator Greg Johnson recently said:
“As with any major infrastructure project that requires years of planning and construction, changes in elected leadership, from the federal level through local jurisdictions, is expected. We look forward to conversations with federal, state and local elected leaders about how we can continue to work together to deliver a safer and more reliable multimodal replacement bridge and corridor. We are working with our state and federal partners to seek clarification and assess the impact of recent federal actions.”
FAQS ABOUT THE I-5 BRIDGE PROJECT
The Interstate Bridge Replacement Program website features a helpful “FAQ” section that addresses some key considerations of this project. Click here to find detailed responses the questions below and more:
- Why do we need to replace the Interstate Bridge across the Columbia River?
- How will the new bridge be funded?
- Will transit be a part of the IBR program?
- How is the IBR program addressing climate concerns?
- How will safety be improved on the bridge?
COMMUNITY OUTREACH HIGHLIGHTS
Over the past few weeks, I have enjoyed connecting with local leaders, advocates, and constituents about issues that impact House District 29. I always appreciate hearing from a wide range of perspectives. Through dialogue across difference, we can work towards the best possible solution on every issue.
Here are a few recent events where I had the chance to engage with our community:
Town Halls in Forest Grove and Hillsboro
On January 25th and 29th, I heard from over 100 total attendees at town halls, where we spoke about education, transportation, agriculture, technology, and more! I appreciated thoughtful comments and curiosity from constituents across Washington County, who shared their hopes, concerns, and feedback for legislators as we begin the 2025 Regular Session. It was a pleasure to have these discussions with Rep. Sosa and Sen. Sollman at our joint event. I am inspired by the many dedicated members of our community who expressed their passion for community improvement. These conversations are among the most important parts of my job as State Representative, and I appreciate everyone who took time to participate.
You can view a recording of the Town Hall here.
Cornelius Community Center Meeting at the Capitol
Last week, Mayor Jeffrey Dalin, City Manager Peter Brandom, Communications and Community Engagement Manager Itzel Sayago, and two Cornelius Youth Advisory Council (YAC) members came to Salem, where we met to discuss the Cornelius Community Center. It was wonderful to hear enthusiastic support for the creation of a new community space that promotes active programming, inclusivity, and connection.
Here is what Myeli Saenz Juan, Vice Chair of YAC and Freshman at Forest Grove High School, had to say about the Cornelius Community Center:
“This space will be beneficial for the youth in our community, giving us a safe place to stay active, and connect with friends, and participate in programs that support our growth and future.”
Eviana Zavala Gallardo, YAC Member and Freshman at Forest Grove High School, also shared her hopes for the new development:
“I can’t play tennis with my dad at the park because of the cold weather. Having an indoor place to play sports in, like pickleball, would really be nice. It would be a place that is always available and where everyone is welcome.”
Community Advocates at the Capitol
In between committee hearings and floor sessions, I dedicate time each day to hear from constituents and community leaders who visit the Capitol. It was wonderful to connect with City Councilors from Forest Grove, Angel Falconer, Brain Schimmel, and Karen Martinez (pictured below). They joined me in an education budget meeting, spoke with me about how the legislature can support local development, and shared their thoughts about how federal changes may impact our city.
I was also glad to meet with advocates for education and disabilities rights about Special Education funding, and my office appreciated hearing from the Cascade AIDS Project and Basic Rights Oregon about legislative priorities for LGBTQ+ Oregonians. In recent weeks, both virtually and in Salem, constituents have shared their ideas about environmental, economic, and agricultural issues. Below, I have included photos with Seed Growers in Western Washington County (left) and Credit Union Leaders in Washington County (right).
4-H Delegation from Oregon Featured at Nationals
In January, Oregon sent a delegation of 4-H youths to the Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) National Contest in San Antonio, Texas. Two delegates from Extension 4-H in Washington County, Ruth and Anna, represented our community in the Skill-a-thon and Modeling competitions. Congratulations to our youth on taking part in this national event!
Retiring FGSD Principal & Assistant Superintendent
Assistant Superintendent John O’Neill and Forest Grove High School Principal Karen O’Neill have announced their retirement at the end of the 2024-25 year. Three of my four children attended schools under their leadership, and I appreciate the wonderful years of service they offered to our community. I wish them both the best in their next chapters!
Hillsboro High School Graduation Rate Hits All-Time High
Hillsboro high schools have achieved their highest-ever four-year graduation rates, with 87.6% of seniors in the district reaching graduation. I am proud of all educators, staffs, coaches, mentors, and family members who support our learners on their journeys. You can read more about this data by clicking here.
Gala de Cultura - February 28th
Join Centro Cultural on February 28th for Gala de Cultura 2025! Centro's commitment to community health and wealth drives everything they do. From fostering financial resilience to promoting well-being, Centro's core pillars are dedicated to creating opportunities for a thriving, safe, and prosperous community. This year’s Gala is a celebration of those pillars and their impact on health and wealth-building across our region. Attend this meaningful evening filled with connection, a delicious dinner, and an inspiring program, culminating in a specially curated live auction.
WHEN: Friday, February 28, 2025 - doors at 5:00 pm
WHERE: Wingspan Event Center, Hillsboro
RSVP: Reserve your tickets today
4-H Short Term Education Program
A grant awarded to OSU Extension 4-H in Washington County has created an opportunity for youth sewing classes in 2025. STEP (Short Term Education Program) classes allow young people to “try on” a new skill and be introduced to the world of 4-H. Reach out to Washington County 4-H for more information by clicking here.
Cold Weather Safety and Shelters
The recent snow and ice in the Willamette Valley is a good reminder to familiarize ourselves with cold-weather resources available in our community. Please visit Washington County's website to learn about our warming shelters, understand how to heat your home safely, and stay prepared for power outages by clicking here. To locate your nearest disaster shelter or center, click here.
My office has compiled a list of resources for our community. You can click on the images below to open a document with the relevant links. If you know of a resource that should be included here, or you need a resource and are having trouble finding the information you need, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office at rep.susanmclain@oregonlegislature.gov.
EDUCATION RESOURCES
Click here, or on the image to the right for a list of Education-related resources. This includes links to the Forest Grove and Hillsboro School Districts, the Oregon and US Departments of Education, information on how to pay for college, student lunch programs, and much more!
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WILDFIRE-RELATED RESOURCES
Click here, or on the image to the right for important resources related to wildfire prevention and recovery. This list includes links to current fire restrictions and recreation site status maps, the Oregon Department of Forestry's fire prevention tip page, and important resources for wildfire victims.
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RESOURCES FOR OUR VETERANS
Click here, or on the image to the right for a list of important resources for Veterans, including links and phone numbers to the various divisions of the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs, local Washington County assistance, supportive and community-based groups like the American Legion, and mental health resources.
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STATE & LOCAL GOVERNMENT
Click here, or on the image to the right for links to important local and state government pages, including the Hillsboro, Forest Grove, and Cornelius city government pages. You can also access the Oregon Legislature's page, and other important state agency sites, like the Department of Motor Vehicles, the Unemployment Department, and the Oregon Health Authority.
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The snow in Forest Grove this week!
Yours truly,
 Representative Susan McLain
House District 29
email: Rep.SusanMcLain@oregonlegislature.gov I phone: 503-986-1429
address: 900 Court St NE, H-493, Salem, OR 97301
website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/mclain
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