Friends and Neighbors,

Here are some highlights from the past week and helpful community information for you! 

 - Shelly

Happy Easter, everyone! He is risen, indeed!

This Easter, as Christians across Oregon and the nation celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we are reminded of the power of truth, sacrifice, and eternal hope. The story of Easter is not just about a moment in history — it’s a cornerstone of our faith. Jesus Christ conquered death, sacrificing Himself for our sins, so that we might have life, and have it abundantly.

Whether you're spending the holiday with family, attending a morning service, or enjoying a peaceful Sunday at home, we wish you joy, love, and hope this season.

May the light and sacrifice of Christ continue to guide our hearts and our work ahead.

THE TAX MAN COMETH FOR ALL

April 15th marked Tax Day—a date that looms large for every Oregonian. While Americans everywhere feel the annual pinch, Oregonians face a uniquely heavy tax burden that piles onto an already high cost of living.

Oregon ranks as the 10th most expensive state to live in, with the 5th highest individual income tax rate in the nation—trailing only California, Hawaii, New York, and New Jersey. When you add up state and federal taxes, Oregon’s individual filers pay one of the highest percentages of their income in taxes anywhere in the country. For working families and small businesses, this isn’t just a line item—this makes a tangible difference.

But taxes are only part of the story. Oregon households are also squeezed by the 5th highest food prices and 6th highest transportation costs in the U.S.. Groceries cost Oregonians nearly $10,000 a year—21.6% more than the national average—making Oregon the 8th most expensive state for groceries. 

Given these challenges, it’s no surprise that the #1 issue for Oregonians is the cost of living. In response, this week, on Tax Day, Oregon House Republicans forced votes on a series of bills aimed at providing real relief. Democrats voted down them all:

• Eliminating taxes on tips—supported by 70% of Oregonians
• Cutting middle-class income taxes to make Oregon more affordable—supported by 79%
• Repealing Oregon's hidden sales tax, the Corporate Activities Tax

Despite broad public support, many of these bills have stalled or been blocked in committee by the current majority, leaving working families and local businesses to shoulder the burden.

It's clear that Oregon’s high taxes, combined with soaring costs for essentials like food and transportation, are making it harder for families to get ahead. 

That's why I have introduced legislation to eliminate taxes on pay. I spoke about the need to pass this bill and give working families tax relief. Watch that here: 

MORE RENT CONTROL THAT WILL DRIVE UP HOUSING COSTS

This week, Democrats passed House Bill 3054, a measure that ratchets down rent control in manufactured home parks and marinas at 6% for most properties, down from the current 10% cap. 

Oregon’s experiment with rent control has proven what common sense has long warned us about—the harmful consequences didn’t just might happen, they did happen. Housing costs have continued to rise because when you limit the ability of housing providers to pay their bills, they won't offer rental housing in the first place. This isn't just Republican talking points. Even the Democratic governor of Colorado opposed more rent control, stating: “I am skeptical that rent control will create more housing stock, and locations with these policies often have the unintended consequences of higher rent.” 

He has been proven right. In Colorado, they loosened regulations and built over 100,000 new apartments in the last two years, and rents have declined by 6% in Denver in just the past year.

These new regulations will surely threaten the long-term sustainability of the housing market, especially for low-income Oregonians who live in manufactured home parks, by: 

• Exacerbate the housing crisis by discouraging private investment in affordable housing and prompting owners to sell parks for redevelopment, reducing the supply of low-cost homes.
• Reduce funds for maintenance and upgrades as rent caps limit the ability of landlords to cover rising costs, potentially leading to deferred repairs and declining park conditions.
• Drive out small, local owners who may be unable to absorb increased costs, resulting in more parks being sold to large, profit-driven investment firms—ironically, the very trend the bill aims to address.

TRANSPORTATION BLUNDERS: WHY SHOULD OREGONIANS

PAY MORE FOR BUREAUCRATIC FAILURE?

As Democrats push for a new $1.9 billion transportation tax hike, Oregonians are right to ask: Why should we bail out a bureaucracy that can’t get the basics right?

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and DMV have been plagued by a series of embarrassing and costly errors. Most recently, the DMV admitted to years of data entry mistakes that led to non-citizens being registered to vote—errors stretching back to 2010, not just the last few years as officials previously claimed, and registering at least an additional 118 illegal voters over those years. These mistakes have undermined public trust in Oregon’s elections and exposed serious flaws in the state’s Motor Voter system, which ODOT was never equipped to manage in the first place.

But the incompetence doesn’t stop at the DMV counter. ODOT’s and the Department of Administrative Services' (DAS) mismanagement is now under a microscope after the state discovered major errors in the critical Highway Cost Allocation Study—the very analysis lawmakers rely on to decide who pays what for road maintenance. The study, which was supposed to guide “fair” tax rates, included projects that should never have been counted and bungled basic calculations, calling into question years of funding decisions. These blunders come on top of a long record of ODOT projects running wildly over budget, like the I-5 Rose Quarter project, which ballooned from $450 million to nearly $2 billion in less than a decade. I have and will continue to point out the misplaced spending priorities coming out of ODOT, most of which are directed by the Democrat-controlled legislature. Take Rose Quarter for example. The Legislature chose to move money that was dedicated to that project, and the result has been delay after delay to which has lead to increased costs. However, in the case of the Abernethy I-205 project (the project the moved the Rose Quarter money to) costs have continued to climb because of poor planning and engineering.

Despite this track record, Democrats are pushing forward with a plan to hike gas taxes, vehicle fees, and payroll taxes—measures that will hit working families and small businesses the hardest. Oregonians already face one of the highest tax burdens in the nation and are struggling with soaring costs for everything from groceries to housing. Yet, instead of demanding accountability and reform at ODOT, Democrats charge ahead with treating taxpayers like piggy banks to foot the bill for bureaucratic mistakes and mismanagement. The Oregonian Editorial Board is right to criticize the effort: "There’s something in the package to tick off nearly everyone. It’s also worth highlighting what’s missing – most notably the ways that legislators will ensure that this new money is spent accountably, transparently and with a strict focus on the problem they’re trying to solve. Also missing: acknowledgment of the crater that the governor’s new “project labor agreement” executive order would create in the transportation budget."

Until ODOT and the DMV prove they can manage the responsibilities they already have, Oregonians shouldn’t be forced to bail them out with even higher taxes. It’s time for real accountability—not another blank check for bureaucratic failure.

OREGON’S ECONOMY IS TEETERING ON A KNIFE’S EDGE

Oregon’s economic outlook is growing increasingly precarious as key indicators point to mounting challenges for both businesses and working families.

The state’s unemployment rate climbed to 4.6% in March—the highest since August 2021 and up from 4.1% a year ago—marking a steady rise over the past year and outpacing the national average of 4.2%. While health care and social assistance sectors have added jobs, most other industries are seeing little to no growth. In some rural counties, unemployment rates are even higher.

Meanwhile, Oregon’s minimum wage is set to increase again in July, continuing its annual inflation-tied climb. The Portland metro area will see the minimum wage rise above $16 per hour, with other regions following suit at slightly lower rates. These added costs will put more pressure on small businesses already struggling with rising costs and a cooling economy, and will lead to increased prices for consumers.

In our agriculture workforce, new research out of the University of California, Berkeley, offers a cautionary tale. Their ag overtime mandate is leading to farmworkers losing an average of $100 per week in take-home pay, as employers cut hours to manage higher wage bills. Oregon’s agricultural workers are facing similar unintended consequences. 

These are the common-sense consequences of years of bad policymaking. They are finally coming to a head, and these trends signal that Oregon’s economy is at a tipping point.

KOTEK'S CHAOTIC ADMINISTRATION IS FAILING

It seems like every week, a new scandal or controversy breaks out inside Governor Kotek's administration. In the last year, and mostly in the last 6 months, Kotek has fired or forced out at least 5 high-level bureaucrats in her administration at the Department of Forestry, State Hospital, Oregon Youth Authority, Public Defense Commission, and Department of Corrections. 

The most recent flashpoint came at the Oregon State Hospital, where Dr. Sara Walker, the hospital’s Chief Medical Officer and interim superintendent, abruptly resigned after new details emerged about a patient’s death last month. Federal investigators found the hospital’s emergency response was “not timely nor effective,” and the facility is now at risk of losing accreditation and federal funding. The hospital has struggled for years with patient safety and timely admissions, and a federal judge is considering whether to hold the state in contempt—potentially triggering tens of millions in new costs for Oregon taxpayers. 

This week, Kotek also fired Jessica Kampfe, the head of the Oregon Public Defense Commission due to the ongoing and worsening crisis in Oregon’s public defense system. Under Kampfe’s leadership, the number of criminal defendants without assigned attorneys grew to over 4,000.

THE WAR OVER DEI

After Kotek defied an order from the federal Department of Education to ensure Oregon's DEI policies do not violate federal law by discriminating based on race, the Port of Portland Commission - the managers of PDX airport and Oregon's biggest international port - have scheduled a meeting with one agenda item on it: "revocation of the Port of Portland Commission Social Equity Policy and associated Guideline," citing it's need to comply with federal law to ensure federal funding. 

Kotek is playing a dangerous game of choosing racial preference policies over the funding of Oregon schools. She would be wise to follow the lead of the Port Commission.

Oregon gun owners appeal to state Supreme Court to review gun control Measure 114

Two Harney County gun owners, backed by Gun Owners of America Inc., have petitioned the Oregon Supreme Court to weigh in on whether voter-approved gun control Measure 114 adheres to the state constitution. Their attorney, Tony L. Aiello Jr., argued that the state’s high court should clarify Article 1, Section 27 of the Oregon Constitution, which establishes the right to bear arms. In a 24-page petition, Aiello argued that the measure’s required permit to buy a gun would turn the state constitutional right to bear arms “into a privilege for government to grant or refuse.”

Homelessness, cost-of-living are Portland’s greatest challenges, according to residents

Overall, about 73.6% of participants said they either moderately or extremely agree that they feel safe walking through their neighborhoods during the day. That percentage fell to about 44.9%, when they asked whether they also feel safe at night...

...When respondents were asked to name the greatest challenge the city is facing, homelessness was the most common answer — at 85.4%. The cost-of-living was another common response at 73.3%, while community safety was listed at 59.7%.

Lawmakers Press BOLI on Prevailing Wage Decisions

State Sen. Dick Anderson (R-Lincoln City) and Rep. Vikki Breese Iverson (R-Prineville) wrote to Oregon Labor Commissioner Christina Stephenson on April 8 following an Oregon Journalism Project story about the impact of Stephenson’s prevailing wage determinations on the development of affordable housing...

...In their letter, the lawmakers urged Stephenson to use her discretion to exempt more projects from paying prevailing wage, saying her agency’s actions were “potentially reducing the number of units built, delaying project timelines, or shutting down construction entirely.”

Oregon House passes legislation tied to KATU Investigation into permitting requirements

The Oregon House overwhelmingly passed a bill supporters said would save money for housing developers and small businesses while making it easier to develop projects. The legislation is a direct result of a KATU investigation into permit requirements in Portland. Our investigation found the city put sidewalk and street corner improvements on a small business owner as a condition of a building permit, despite a planned state project covering much of the same work.

Potato Day at the Capitol!

It was Potato Day at the Capitol on Tuesday, a celebration honoring the agriculture industry and the humble spud’s role in it. Did you know the potato is recognized as Oregon’s state vegetable? I want to thank the growers for all their hard work and recognize the importance of agriculture in this state’s economy.

Grand Re-Opening of Withycombe Hall at OSU

(Left photo) Rep. Boshart Davis, Jayathi Murthy, President-OSU, and David Booth, CEO-Tillamook Creamery. (Right photo) Staci Simonich, Dean of Ag.-OSU and Rep. Boshart Davis.

Congratulations to President Murthy, Dean Simonich, and Oregon State University on the grand reopening of Withycombe Hall and the return of the beloved OSU Creamery! And a special shout out to David Booth-CEO and the people at Tillamook Creamery for their part, and their generosity.

This achievement is just a tiny demonstration of OSU’s commitment to excellence in agricultural education. By blending teaching, research, and real-world application, the university continues to lead the way in preparing the next generation of Ag leaders.

The new Tillamook Dairy Innovators Lab, the expanded Erath Family Foundation Winery Laboratory, and the enhanced spaces for the Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences are more than just impressive—they’re transformational for students and the broader agricultural community.

This project highlights the power of collaboration between higher education and industry, and it solidifies OSU’s role as a national model for innovation in agriculture.

Thank you to everyone at OSU for your vision, leadership, and dedication to Oregon agriculture.

Invitation to speak with Oregon's Airport Managers

Earlier this week, I had a chance to speak with members of the Oregon Airport Managers Association (OAMA) and other service providers at the Salem Convention Center. Together with Senator Bruce Starr, we spoke about the key transportation issues, and shared updates on transportation topics currently in front of the Joint Committee on Transportation (JCT). It was a great opportunity to connect, answer questions, and hear directly from those working in the field.

Drug Take Back Event with Linn County Sheriff's Office:

Your Linn County Sheriff's Office will once again be participating in the Drug Take Back Event planned for Saturday, April 26th, 2025!

We will be at the following locations on Saturday, April 26, 2025:

Mill City - 9:00-10:00 am, City Hall, 444 S. 1st AVE

Scio - 10:30-11:30 am, Scio Fire Hall, 38975 SW 6th AVE

Halsey - 1:00-2:00 pm, City Hall, 100 Halsey ST

Harrisburg - 2:30-3:30 pm, City Hall, 120 Smith

What is accepted? - Any type of Rx and/or over the counter medications are acceptable collections. Make sure lids are on tight if they are liquid.

What is not accepted? - Intravenous solutions, injectables, syringes, medical waste or any type of needle will not be accepted.

The Sheriff's Office also has a prescription drop box in the lobby of the Sheriff's Office. This is an option for anyone who can't make it to any of the satellite pick up locations.

From our friends at the ABC House:

Mark your calendars - the ABC House Golf Scramble is back on FRIDAY, August 15th! Join us at the stunning Corvallis Club for a fun-filled day of golf for a great cause. Your registration includes:

• Cart Rental
• Catered lunch
• A cheat bag full of goodies

Whether you're swinging for fun or aiming for glory, you'll be making a difference for kids in our community Registration is OPEN now here! Sponsorship opportunities are also available which is a great way to showcase your business and support a meaningful cause!

From our friends at the Family Tree Relief Nursery:

Many childcare facilities require diapers and about 25% of parents nationwide have had to miss out on work or school due to not having childcare because they lack enough diapers. In honor of Child Abuse Awareness Month, Family Tree Relief Nursery's Diaper Drive is happening now! Stop by any of our participating locations to donate diapers to families in need. You can find the full list of participants on our website.

From our friends at the Linn County Sheriff's Department:

It is Animal Control Officer (Deputy) Appreciation week, and we want to recognize not only our amazing Animal Control Deputy-Corey Putney, but all those who work in in our Animal Control Division, including, Lt. Steve Looney, Animal Control Officer-Ken Walters, Program Secretary-Alexis Bolf, and Kennel Tech-Madeline Landrum for all the amazing work they do to help the animals of Linn County.

Animal Control Deputy Putney and Animal Control Officer Walters respond to all kinds of calls relating to primarily dogs and livestock animals, of which there are A LOT of in Linn County. These two take the primary lead on investigating cases of animal abuse/neglect, missing pets, dogs at large, dog bites, loose cattle, farm animals stuck in ditches, and so much more!

At the office, our staff takes calls, cares for impounded animals, and helps facilitate licensing, microchipping, lost and found and of course, adoptions! In 2024, our office took in 235 dogs! Of those, 80 were returned to their owners once located, 88 were adopted from our shelter and 60 of them were transferred to other area shelters. Our office also licensed 3,794 dogs and microchipped another 103! From investigating abused animals, helping move cows out of the road and helping dogs find their forever homes, the Linn County Animal Control Division is here for the people and animals of Linn County!

Thank you, to all our amazing Animal Control staff! For more information about our Animal Control Division, the services we provide and available dogs for adoption, please visit our website here! 

From our friends at the Albany Fire Department:

Inspiring our young people to consider the fire service! It's important to share our profession any chance we get. Firefighters and medics are needed everywhere in the state of Oregon. Today we shared Station 11 with Memorial Middle School AVID students. Let's hope one of them finds their way to AFD in the future.

Capitol Guest: Caleb Guest

We had special guests this week: Caleb Guest - a super star student, joined by his mom, Annalyn.

My Floor Courtesy welcoming Caleb:

"Caleb was recently honored as the 2024 Distinguished Student of the Year by the Albany Chamber of Commerce.

Caleb is a student at Santiam Christian, where he has taken on the most demanding academic path available to him —and has maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA in doing so.

Outside the classroom, Caleb is a standout athlete and was a state qualifier in wrestling this year.

In addition to his academic and athletic achievements, Caleb generously gives his time to welcome international students studying at Oregon State University, helping them feel at home and connected to our community.

Caleb Guest is a shining example of leadership, kindness, and excellence."

A special note from his Mom: 

"Everything about our visit to the Oregon State Capitol was excellent! The warmth of Representative Boshart Davis upon our first meeting, the quickness to reply back to our email and professionalism of her Chief of Staff, Ms. Perry, the friendliness of her staff upon arrival after clear and detailed instructions on how and when to arrive and our time there was just wonderful! I really appreciated the time we got to spend on the House floor. My son’s introduction on the House floor is a memory I won’t soon forget. We are so proud  of him and it’s nice to see him being recognized for his accomplishments. My son is very interested in government and it was great to see Rep. Boshart Davis come over during a bill debate to ask my son his thoughts. He felt so honored to be asked his opinion. We are so proud to support Rep. Boshart Davis and to have her as our Representative. Thank you so much!"

Always great catching up with friends at the Cap!

(L to R) Bill Perry, Elizabeth Fessler, Rep. Boshart Davis, and Kyle Fessler.

Such a great visit! It was a little over a year ago that Elizabeth was an 'intern for a day' here at the Capitol. And always appreciate the chance to visit with the good people from the Oregon Association of Nurseries and talk about the work they're doing!

During the 2025 legislative session my office will continue to keep you updated and informed - and is always at your service. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any community event announcements, legislative questions, or concerns.

Talk soon,

Capitol Phone: 503-986-1415
Capitol Address: 900 Court St NE, H-389, Salem, OR 97301
Email: Rep.ShellyBoshartDavis@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/boshartdavis

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To contact me, please click here: Rep.ShellyBoshartDavis@oregonlegislature.gov