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After weeks of cold, wind, rain, and even hail, the sun was shining on the cherry blossoms in Salem for the first part of a decidedly quieter week in Salem--at least compared to the frenzy of last week (deadline week). For our more astute readers, you might notice that the banner at the top of this newsletter is a little different this week, as Representative Cate took some time off to deal with family matters. As a result, Ali and I are picking up a little bit of the slack in the office (and staying in constant communication with our boss), and I'm happy to report that it was a pretty successful week! Of course, that doesn't mean that her committee neighbors, Rep. Willy Chotzen (D, Southeast Portland) and Rep. Courtney Neron (D, Wilsonville) weren't sad about not having her around (see the below photo of her colleagues checking in).
Some accomplishments of note included finalizing House District 11's Capital Construction funding requests, which involves communicating with our cities and fire districts and getting their funding asks onto forms to submit to the budget committee (Ways & Means). This is a process that really begins around the first of the year, but it is always nice to get a task marked off of our list. The advocacy portion on the other hand will be taking place in May, when the committee considers these requests and hands out funds for these projects in the end of session budget bill, which is sometimes colloquially regarded as the "Christmas Tree Bill".
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Another great thing that happened this week was getting to present and testify in support of Rep. Cate's HB 3156-1. This bill takes a simple yet meaningful step toward improving consumer awareness of the Public Utility Commission's complaint process by requiring that information on how to file a complaint be printed on all utility bills. This includes a shortened url of the online Complaint Form at the bottom of every physical and digital utility bill, as well as a phone number to the PUCs complaint division, to ensure broader public knowledge of its existence when there is an unresolved dispute between an individual and their utility provider. To watch my testimony from yesterday afternoon, click here.
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Unfortunately, Some Bad Bills...
HB 3197 - Don't tax my drink! This bill is a proposed 8% tax on wine, cider, and beer. It has a hearing scheduled for next Wednesday, so please consider testifying in opposition!
HB 3075 – This bill looks to codify into law the provisions of BM114, including the permit to purchase and firearms transfer process. It is scheduled for a work Session on 4/2.
HB 3076 - The measure directs the Department of Justice to establish a state gun dealer licensing program. This would be in addition to the current federal FFL program. It would not only cover guns but ammunition as well. It is scheduled for a work Session on 4/2.
SB 243-1 - Institutes a 72-hour waiting period, raises the age to buy any firearm to 21, bans bump stocks, institutes arbitrary zones preventing carry, and more. A true anti--gun omnibus bill. It is scheduled for a work Session on 4/3.
SB 696 - Creates the crime of unlawful transport, manufacture or transfer of a rapid fire activator. This includes items like bump stocks, trigger cranks, and other devices that can be used to modify firing rates. It is scheduled for a work session on 4/7.
SB 697 - Prohibits a person under 21 years of age from possessing firearms with specified exceptions. It is scheduled for a work session on 4/7.
SB 698 – Allows for certain public entities that control public buildings to set policies, ordinances, or regulations limiting the right to conceal a firearm in a public building. A public hearing and work session is scheduled 4/7.
SB 429 – LIKELY OMNIBUS BILL FOR SB 696, SB 697, SB 698 (an attempt to stuff these three bills into a single bill via an amendment). It is scheduled for a public hearing and a possible work session on 4/7.
SB 916 - This bill would allow striking workers to collect unemployment benefits, and passed the Senate floor this week by just one vote, and will now head to the House side.
And Lastly, a Good Bill:
SB 777 - This bill is a long-overdue update to Oregon’s wolf depredation compensation program. It provides fair compensation for ranchers who lose livestock or working dogs to confirmed wolf kills, while increasing funding for nonlethal deterrence. It passed on the Senate Floor this week 28-1, and will now head to the House side.
A big congratulations to the high school students from all around House District 11 who participated at the FFA State Convention! Your hard work, dedication, and teamwork were on full display, and we are incredibly proud of how you represented our local community.
Whether competing individually or as part of a team, these students showcased the skills and values that make FFA such an important organization for the future of agriculture. Their commitment to excellence is an inspiration to us all, and we look forward to seeing more great things to come for these boys and girls!
Well done and keep up the fantastic work!
Lebanon FFA:
- Lebanon earned silver in Chapter Scrapbook
- Aubree received the Silver Award in Chapter Scrapbook
- Dallas made it to the top 10 out of 35 candidates in the Oregon FFA state officer selection process
- McKynzi Carmel Brown, Karleen Renee Johnson, Tryston Jae Majors, and Macy Lee Rose all earned their FFA State Degrees
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Central Linn FFA:
- Grant Wahl placed 2nd with his metal art creation made from recycled metal
- Ava Glaser was selected as the recipient of the Beef Production Entrepreneurship state proficiency winner
- Elle Glaser placed 1st in the talent show as she sang her heart out
- Ximena Cruz placed 4th in Spanish Creed Speaking
- Kendra Glaser earned her State FFA Degree
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Scio FFA:
- Scio earned Silver in Treasurer Book
- McKenzie Gilkison earned her State FFA Degree
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Sweet Home FFA:
- Kaylie Coolie won the Upper Willamette District Equine Entrepreneurship Proficiency Award
- Ashley Duncan and Selah Lee Wright both earned their State FFA Degree
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Jefferson FFA:
- Payton Lynn Baldwin, Peyton Scovell, and McKenzie Tillerson all earned their State FFA Degree
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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
Seed to Supper Classes Begin Thursday in Scio
Seed to Supper at Scio's public library is a free, comprehensive, six-week beginner gardening course designed to help adult gardeners get started with growing their own food on a limited budget!
Starting Thursday, April 3rd until May 8th, the course will run from 6:00PM–8:00PM each week. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to expand your gardening knowledge, this class will give you the tools you need to succeed. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to learn how to grow a portion of your own food!
Teen Dance Night in Lebanon Next Friday!
Students in grades 6 through 8 are invited to an exciting dance event next Friday, April 4th, at the Lebanon Club.
DJ Lucy Goosey will provide an unforgettable night of music and entertainment. Attendees are encouraged to wear blue, bring friends, and enjoy an evening filled with great music and dancing. This event offers a fantastic opportunity to have fun, socialize, and create lasting memories, so don't miss out!
Walk a Mile for a Child 5k Saturday, April 5th
Exciting news! The annual family-friendly 5K run/walk returns next Saturday morning, April 5th at Academy Square in Lebanon (505 W Tangent St).
Proceeds support vital local organizations, including ABC House, CASA, Family Tree Relief Nursery, Sarah’s Place, and Suicide Prevention. Every step helps fund their essential work in the community.
Runners and walkers alike are welcome—join in, raise awareness, and support these important causes! Just be sure to register ahead of time with this link.
Wool Felting Easter Rabbit Class in Brownsville
Interested in upping your arts and crafts game? A Wool Felting Easter Rabbit class will be held on Saturday, April 5th, from 1:30PM–5:00PM at 255 N Main St in Brownsville!
Instructor Connie Swindoll will provide step-by-step guidance in crafting a cute and colorful Easter rabbit using wool felting techniques. The class is designed for individuals aged 12 and up, and no prior felting experience is required. A registration fee of $35 includes all necessary materials.
Participation is limited to 10 students, and registration must be completed at least one week in advance to secure a spot--so don't hesitate!
 The Princess Ball in Scio April 5th
The Linn County Lamb & Wool Fair Royal Court will host “The Princess Ball,” a father-daughter dance fundraiser, on Saturday, April 5th, from 4:00PM–7:00PM at the Historic ZCBJ Hall in Scio!
Princesses of all ages are invited to attend with their father or father-figure for an enchanting evening featuring dancing, crafts, refreshments, and more. This year’s theme, A Wonderful Time in Wonderland, will set the stage for a magical experience. Music will be provided by DJ Hidden Jim Entertainment, and a variety of fun activities will be available for all attendees.
Pre-sale tickets are priced at $15, with admission at the door available for $20. Tickets can be purchased online at lambfair.com and will be available for pick-up at will call.
This special event promises a night of unforgettable memories! Attendees are encouraged to secure tickets in advance to be part of this magical celebration.
 Scio Saturday Winter Market Continues
While excitement builds for the Lamb & Wool Fair, the Winter Market in Scio continues the first Saturday of every month until May 10th, when the weekly market commences!
Shoppers can discover unique finds, and vendors can join this vibrant community event by signing up at sciosaturdaymarket.com. It's a great opportunity to support local businesses and enjoy the season!
The following write-up is by Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan
Measure 114 has been one of the most controversial laws in recent Oregon history. This law not only restricts the limit on magazine capacity to 10 rounds, but it will also institute an unprecedented permit to purchase a firearm, making it one of the most overreaching infringements on the second amendment in my lifetime. I do not make this statement lightly or without merit. I believe in the voting process, but also understand that lobbyists and those writing measures can intentionally or unintentionally interject bias and confusion into these proposed laws. Measure 110, that decriminalized all hard drugs, is an example where the voters did not completely understand what they were voting on or the impact it would have. Measure 114 passed by only 50.6%.
First, I will address the permit to purchase firearms. The permit was initially set at $65 by voters. However, there are already proposed changes to increase this to $150 as the costs incurred to local agencies and the Oregon State Police far exceed the $65. This does not include the cost of the newly required training that an applicant must complete before they can obtain the permit to purchase a firearm. The permit process itself is cumbersome requiring the local agency to conduct a background check, send the application to OSP for final approval and to obtain a state permit number for the applicant. This would then be sent back to the local agency to issue the permit to the applicant. This multi-step process is all to ensure a background check is done on anyone wanting to purchase firearms, however, background checks are already being done and will continue to be done at the time of purchase, even if Measure 114 is implemented. This new process is, quite frankly, a costly and unnecessary step for someone wanting to purchase a firearm. If Measure 114 goes into effect, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office is committed to making this as easy as we can on our residents, but we are only one part of the process to obtain that permit and delays are inevitable.
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The second component of Measure 114 is the magazine capacity limit of 10 rounds. This very issue has been contested all the way to the Supreme Court of the United States in a California case. It was remanded with new instructions to the lower courts, including the 9th Circuit Court. In my opinion, this decision to give the lower courts new guidance on how to reach a decision, is telling. Although, the 9th Circuit recently reaffirmed their earlier ruling that a limit on these standard-issued magazines is constitutional, I fully expect it to make its way to SCOTUS once again.
I will continue to stand by the statement I made after Measure 114 passed in 2022 and will not use Linn County Sheriff’s Office resources to enforce such a constitutionally controversial law. We will continue to concentrate our resources on the criminals out victimizing our community. I have no intention to make arrests and make otherwise law-abiding citizens criminals, when there is a probability of this law being overturned.
I cannot imagine the outcry in Oregon if a law was passed infringing on people’s first amendment rights, requiring expensive permits or delays before someone could speak freely in public or on social media.
I think we all agree that guns need to be kept out of the hands of dangerous criminals. However, Measure 114 does nothing to improve this.
Lebanon Fire District Launches YouTube Series
The Lebanon Fire District is getting creative, exploring new revenue streams to restore programs lost to budget cuts!
The first episode of Fire Cam premiered this week on YouTube, offering a firsthand look at real emergency responses. The series kicks off with a dramatic vehicle rescue captured from helmet cam footage. Watch here: https://youtu.be/WaaiaUIQwYI.
Chief Rodondi would like to thank to Jason Carroll for the footage and to Jason Adamson, McKenzie Crenshaw, and Erin Nunes for launching the LFD video program. Their efforts highlight the incredible work of LFD crews every day.
More Fire Cam episodes are coming soon, along with Kenz Behind the Lens next month, showcasing a day in the life at LFD.
Help Monetize the Channel!
LFD is working to monetize its YouTube channel to support operations. To qualify, the channel needs 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours. Like, subscribe, comment, and share to help reach their goal!
As Conner mentioned earlier, this past week has been a bit slower as we’ve wrapped up the busy period following the first chamber work session posting deadline. With that significant milestone behind us, we’ve been catching up on constituent work and addressing ongoing matters that require attention. While it’s been a time to breathe a little easier (and spend lunches out in the sun!), it’s also provided an opportunity to make sure we’re staying on top of the smaller, yet important tasks that keep everything running smoothly.
A significant portion of the week has been spent drafting and sending out emails addressing various constituent concerns. Whether it’s answering questions, offering assistance with a local or state agency, or providing updates on key issues happening in Salem, it’s been a priority to maintain strong communication with the community in HD11.
In addition, we’ve continued to take meetings, engaging with leaders, stakeholders, and organizations on a variety of bills, to ensure that all voices are heard in the policymaking process. Since Rep. Cate is on the Ways & Means Committee, this means a lot of meetings about funding asks!
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Looking ahead, we remain focused on continuing the important weekly work that ensures we’re making progress on our long-term goals of the session. As always, we appreciate your continued engagement and look forward to keeping you updated in the weeks to come!
- Ali Ruiz
Portland Diamond Project seeks $800M in bonds for baseball stadium
KATU
The Portland Diamond Project is asking the Oregon Legislature for $800 million in bonds to help construct a professional baseball stadium in Portland.
Oregon Senate passes bill allowing unemployment benefits for striking workers
KATU
The Oregon State Senate passed Senate Bill 916 on Thursday morning, advancing the legislation to the Oregon House of Representatives. The bill, if enacted, would allow workers involved in labor disputes to receive unemployment insurance benefits while on strike, with certain conditions.
Senate votes to outlaw discrimination against Oregon tenants based on immigration status
Oregon Capital Chronicle
Senate Bill 599 barring discrimination against immigrant tenants is a top priority for the Legislature’s 18-member BIPOC caucus and now heads to the state House for approval.
Gov. Kotek seeks answers from state utility commission amid public outcry over rising utility rates
Oregon Capital Insider
Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek’s office has heard from thousands of Oregonians concerned with utility rate increases that have gone up for most by about 50% in the last five years.
Serve as an Honorary Page!
It isn’t just adults who can be engaged with their Oregon Legislature, there are opportunities for kids as well, and the Honorary Page Program is one of those ways!
The Page Program runs from February to June in odd-numbered years and in February and early March in even-numbered years, otherwise known as a "short session." Students between the ages of 12 and 17 must apply for this unique program where they will spend a day engaged in a living history and civics lesson.
As an Honorary Page, the applicant will participate in an official swearing-in ceremony, administered by the House Sergeant at Arms, an event often considered the highlight of the day, in order to be allowed onto the chamber floor. Further events include a classroom session where details of the Legislative process are discussed, performing courier services for the Chief Clerk's Office, working on the House chamber floor with the Legislators during a daily session, visiting each applicant's Representative's office, observing Committee meetings, a personal tour of the capitol building itself, and participation in any special events or activities at the capitol as they occur.
Click here for more information, or to apply for your student to join us on the House Floor!
The "Cause" of the 2020 Santiam Canyon Fires
The Fight to Fix “Equitable” Inequities for Schools
Warning! New Taxes Being Considered
Out-Shenaniganed By 8th Graders!
Fire and Ice, and Birthday Hearts!
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