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To contact me, please click here: Rep.MarkOwens@oregonlegislature.gov
Friends and Neighbors,
The pace in Salem is intensifying as we approach the April 9 policy committee deadline. With packed schedules, added committee time, and multiple public hearings and work sessions each week, it’s a race to keep important legislation moving forward. I’m grateful for the dedication of everyone who has traveled long distances to testify, submitted comments, and stayed engaged—it truly makes a difference.
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This week, I’m sharing updates on several key bills impacting rural Oregon. From wildfire protection efforts with the Rangeland Fire Protection Associations, to Harney County residents fighting for water stability, and the expansion of newborn disease screenings, there’s been meaningful progress on several fronts. I’ll also highlight the ongoing Ways and Means Community Budget Hearings, which give you the opportunity to make your voice heard on funding priorities.
As always, I remain committed to fighting for the needs of House District 60 and rural Oregon. Thank you for your continued support and engagement.
Stay safe,
Week 10 - Moments with Mark Video Update
Last Saturday, we kicked off the first of several Ways and Means Community Budget Hearings at Mt. Hood Community College in Gresham. Nearly 500 people attended, and we heard from almost 60 individuals over the course of two and a half hours. The conversations covered a wide range of funding needs for various projects and programs.
For residents in House District 60, there are two opportunities to participate in person or remote:
I encourage you to register to testify and share your voice on the budget priorities that matter to you.
Attendees at the Gresham Community Budget Hearing
With the April 9 deadline fast approaching, policy committees are in high gear, working through public hearings and work sessions. Each of my policy committees has added an extra 25 minutes twice a week to tackle the additional workload. We’re averaging seven to eight work sessions per committee, making for a fast-paced and sometimes chaotic schedule, but we’re making significant progress.
On Tuesday, we welcomed members of the Rangeland Fire Protection Associations (RFPA) from across Eastern Oregon to Salem. They provided powerful testimony in support of HB 3349 and HB 3350, which aim to strengthen wildfire prevention and response efforts. We were also encouraged by a productive meeting with Governor Kotek, who expressed her support for the RFPA program.
A huge thank you to everyone who traveled from hours away to testify and meet with legislators—it made a real impact.
Rangeland Fire Protection Association volunteers meet with Governor Kotek
 Watch the Public Hearing for HB 3349 and HB 3350
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On Wednesday, we heard from several Harney County residents who came to Salem to testify on HB 3800. I want to personally thank Merle, Tony, Rob, Andy, Jacob, Fred, and Tom for their compelling testimony.
HB 3800 offers an alternative to the current Rules Advisory Committee's (RAC) proposal to classify Harney County as a Critical Groundwater Area. Instead, it promotes a Voluntary Agreement approach combined with regulatory efforts to stabilize the water situation.
If you have time, I encourage you to listen to the public hearing—it’s just over an hour but provides valuable context and insights into the ongoing water challenges areas of the Harney Basin have been faced with for decades.
Watch the Public Hearing for HB 3800
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HB 3114 also passed out of the House Agriculture Committee this week. The bill creates a collaborative process to develop a shared understanding of water management in the Chewaucan River watershed. It aims to identify broadly supported actions without delaying or interfering with existing water management agency activities or private landowner rights.
This bill promotes cooperation and balance in water management efforts, which is critical for the region.
I'm excited about the progress of HB 3192, a bill I’ve been working on with Rep. Susan McLain. This legislation will add five more newborn disease screenings to the Oregon Newborn Bloodspot Screening Program, expanding early detection efforts. Early screening can be life-changing for families, and I’m grateful for Rep. McLain’s partnership in moving this forward.
HB 3657, championed by Rep. Bobby Levy, passed out of the House Agriculture Committee this week. The program will provide financial assistance for preventive measures and compensate for certain damages caused by wildlife. This is an important step in helping farmers and ranchers mitigate the impact of wildlife damage.
As we approach the final stretch of this session, it’s clear that about two-thirds of the bills moving out of policy committees come with budget requests. With limited funds, we’ll have to prioritize carefully as we near the session’s conclusion. I remain committed to advocating for the needs of House District 60 and ensuring we fund the projects that will have the greatest impact.
Alex Wise from Baker City was officially elected the 2025-26 FFA President. Congratulations Alex and to all the other students who dedicate their time and efforts to making FFA such a great organization.
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The NewSun Climate & Ag Scholarship application deadline is -April 1, 2025, and they have less than 10 applications! We know there are many students who could benefit from scholarship funding, and we're hoping you can help us by sharing the application.
Here are the details:
Who: Graduating high school seniors from Coos, Curry, Crook, Douglas (Coastal), Gilliam, Harney, Klamath, Lake, Morrow, Sherman, Umatilla, and Wasco counties
Essay Requirement: 800-1200 word essay about how changes in climate are affecting their communities, including ranching and farming.
Scholarship Awards: $2500 each (four total) and honorable mentions awarded at the discretion of the review committee
Application Deadline: April 1, 2025
Application: Visit the NewSun website to apply - https://www.newsunenergy.net/scholarship
Tuesday, April 2 from 10am – 6pm
Employees from the Department of Revenue and volunteers from free tax assistance groups will be available to guide you through the new IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon options. File electronically for free.
Call the library for more information, 541-573-6670.
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Capitol Phone: 503-986-1460
Capitol Address: 900 Court St NE, H-475, Salem, OR 97301
Capitol Email: Rep.MarkOwens@oregonlegislature.gov
Capitol Website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/owens
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