Dear Friends and Neighbors,
This week at the Capitol, we held hearings on three of my priority bills – all of which relate to higher education. I also carried a bill on the House floor to put a stop to predatory, high-interest loans from out-of-state online lenders.
Stopping Predatory Online Lending (HB2561)
Nearly two decades ago, Oregon put a cap of 36% on the amount of interest that a lender could charge a customer on a short-term consumer loan. In recent years, however, out-of-state online lenders have found a way to circumvent this cap and issue loans to Oregonians at rates up to 200%. I was proud to carry HB2561 on the House floor to close this loophole and put a stop to such predatory practices.
The bill passed 33-23 and now heads over to the Senate.
Press Release: Oregon House Passes Bill to Protect Oregon Consumers from Predatory Lending.pdf
Student Basic Needs (HB3182) and Textbook Affordability (HB3183)
Oregon students are struggling to survive. Far too many are facing hunger, homelessness, and an inability to make ends meet while pursuing higher education. This week, I testified in favor of two bills that would provide $16 million to colleges as well as non-profits to help students meet their basic needs and $4.5 million for affordable course materials and textbooks.
In 2023, I championed HB2802 to establish work study pilot programs at Eastern Oregon University and Portland State University. Rather than working on-campus, however, participating students were paired with a local non-profit organization related to their field of study. The students received a salary as well as 20% off their tuition. The program has been a huge success!
This week, I testified in favor of HB3185 to sustain the program and expand the number of students who can participate. The hearing included testimony from students who have been part of the program, the non-profits that hosted them, and university officials – all of whom were supportive of the bill. You can watch the hearing here.
Bill Tracking
Commerce and Consumer Protection
We wrapped up our public hearing on HB3179 (The FAIR Energy Act), which would reform the utility rate-setting process to help consumers. We also heard testimony on professional licensing bills related to tax preparers, timeshare sales people, and cosmetologists.
Housing & Homelessness
We heard extensive testimony on HB3644, which would create a comprehensive statewide shelter program with regional coordinators, and HB 3031, which would provide infrastructure support to local governments to help with housing development.
AFL-CIO Lobby Day
This week AFL-CIO union members from HD 30 visited my office in Salem to discuss their priorities and advocate for the passage of SB916 to provide unemployment coverage to workers on strike.
Seismic Upgrades
The Oregon State Capitol is still undergoing seismic renovations. Our work is regularly conducted amidst the sound of jackhammers, drills, and other heavy equipment.
Celebrating our Black Community
"In honor of Black History Month, I want to share movies & film that I personally recommend you add to your watch list.
From history, to personal stories, to music, food, and culture, watch these selections to expand your knowledge of the Black experience."
- Eunice Makinde, City of Hillsboro Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Manager
I invite you to join me Saturday, March 1st from 9:00-10:30am, for a conversation about the issues that matter most to you, your family, and your community. This month, we will meet at Insomnia Coffee Company - Tanasbourne, located at 9355 NE Windsor St, Hillsboro, OR 97006.
I hope that you will stop by, say hello, and enjoy a cup of coffee with me.
Consumer Protection
Debate continues over a bill aiming to curb utility rate hikes and increase transparency
Bill on wildfire prevention work could give utilities immunity from lawsuits • Oregon Capital Chronicle
Housing & Homelessness
This key piece of Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek’s housing effort has finally launched - OPB
Oregon updates building code to allow 'stacked duplexes,' boost housing density
Labor & Workforce Development
Food Access
Find free groceries, meals, or fresh produce near you.
Utility Bill Assistance
The City of Hillsboro is committed to helping customers in need. If you are having trouble paying your utility bill, visit the City’s Utility Assistance webpage or call 503-681-6163 to see if you qualify for a flexible payment plan or bill relief options.
Visit our Utility Rate Adjustments webpage to learn more about when & how the rates on your City of Hillsboro Utility Bill are reviewed and adjusted to support the costs of providing quality utility services throughout the community.
You can also visit our Community Resources webpage to find information on reduced garbage rates, energy & rent assistance, food pantries, weatherization programs, and more.
Don't forget to contact my office with any questions or feedback. Your best way to connect with us is via email: Rep.NathanSosa@oregonlegislature.gov or visit our office (H-280) Monday-Thursday between 9:30am-3pm.
Take care!
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1430
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-280, Salem, Oregon 97301
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