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Join Us for a Springfield Town Hall – April 24
I hope you'll join me for an upcoming town hall on Thursday, April 24, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Springfield City Hall Council Chambers (225 5th Street, Springfield, 97477). This is a great opportunity to discuss the legislative session's progress and hear your thoughts on the issues that matter most to our community.
Session Update
We've recently passed the first chamber deadlines, meaning most policy committees are now focusing on bills that have advanced from the opposite chamber. Given the high volume of legislation introduced this session—especially in the House—meeting these deadlines required significant effort, and many bills did not move forward. However, committees like Rules, Revenue, and the Joint Committees (including Ways and Means and Transportation) continue to consider House-originated measures.
While some bills have already been approved by both chambers and sent to the Governor, many are still under consideration. The process involves committee hearings, potential amendments, and votes in both chambers before reaching the Governor's desk. It's encouraging to see many proposals advancing through these stages.
Key Legislative Focus Areas
Here's an overview of some critical issues we're addressing:
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Transportation: Work is underway on the Transportation Reinvestment Package (TRIP 2025), aiming to invest approximately $1.9 billion per biennium into the State Highway Fund. This includes identifying revenue sources to support road maintenance, safety improvements, and fulfill commitments from previous transportation packages.
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Wildfire Preparedness: Addressing wildfire impacts remains a priority, though progress has been challenged by uncertainties in federal funding. Efforts continue to find sustainable solutions to cover the increasing costs associated with wildfire response and prevention.
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Education Funding: The Governor has proposed a historic $11.36 billion investment in the State School Fund, aiming to enhance K-12 education outcomes. Legislation is also being considered to provide school districts with greater financial predictability and accountability.
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Budget Framework: The Co-Chairs of the Joint Committee on Ways and Means have released a budget framework for the 2025-27 biennium. This plan emphasizes fiscal responsibility, protects core services, and maintains flexibility amid economic uncertainties.
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Health Care: Legislative efforts are focused on expanding access to affordable care and pharmacies, especially in rural areas. There are also studies underway to assess health care staffing and access to reproductive treatments.
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Housing: Recognizing the ongoing housing crisis, the legislature is exploring various strategies to increase housing availability and affordability. This includes studying housing needs and considering measures to support the development of new homes across the state.
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Energy and Utilities: Oregon continues to lead in energy efficiency, ranking 9th nationally for its comprehensive policies. Legislation is being considered to ensure that utility rate increases are implemented thoughtfully, with attention to economic impacts on consumers.
Looking Ahead
As we progress through the session, many policy bills are awaiting funding decisions in the Ways and Means Committee. Passing a balanced budget remains our top priority, alongside advancing legislation that addresses transportation, wildfire preparedness, housing, education, health care, and energy concerns.
I understand that many of you have specific measures you're passionate about. The upcoming town hall is an excellent opportunity to discuss these issues and gain a better understanding of their prospects.
I look forward to engaging with you on April 24 and having meaningful conversations about the session's likely outcomes.
Warm regards,
email: Rep.JohnLively@oregonlegislature.gov I phone: 503-986-1407
address: 900 Court St NE, H-481, Salem, OR, 97301
website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/lively
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