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To contact me, please click here: Sen.DebPatterson@oregonlegislature.gov
As you may know, the work of policy committees in the Legislature will soon wrap up. Most committees have a deadline of Friday, May 23rd to move bills out of each committee. After that, all remaining bills will require votes on the Floor for final passage. Much of our work in these committees has been bipartisan, and I am continuing to work with my colleagues to advance bills that help make Oregon a better place for everyone. You can find out the status of any bill through the Oregon Legislative Information System, to which you can click here to access.
As always, if you have any questions regarding bills we are considering, our office is happy to hear from you. Thank you all for your engagement in the Legislative process.
Understanding Local Transportation Needs
As the Legislature continues to develop this year’s transportation package, I have been working to learn more about the local transportation needs here in our district. I have learned a lot so far and would like to share with you some of what I have found.
Local city governments are highly dependent on the State Highway Fund for road maintenance and repair. However, this funding often falls short of what is needed for maintaining our streets. In Independence, 32% of roads are in either Poor or Very Poor condition and in need of repair. There is also a need for repairs on 7th Street, which sees heavier traffic and provides direct access to areas that are being built with new housing. These issues impact both safety and traffic on our local roads.
As the legislative session progresses, I am eager to ensure this year’s transportation package prioritizes the needs of Oregonians. Thank you to all the local partners who are engaging in these conversations with me.
Your Car May be Spying on You - How to Stop Your Car from Sharing Data
The Federal Trade Commission has taken action against several automakers over allegations that they collect, use, and sell consumers driving locations and behavior to reporting agencies, and insurance companies. Tracking and collecting geolocation and driving data is extremely invasive, as it reveals intimate details about a person’s life. Elected leaders have spoken out about these practices, including Oregon U.S. Senator Ron Wyden.
According to the proposed settlement, the automakers will be banned for five years from sharing sensitive driver data and must take steps to provide greater transparency with consumers.
If you are interested in reading more about the proposed settlement, click here, and if you are interested in learning more about how to stop your car from sharing data, see here.
Older Americans Month - May 2025
On April 17th, Governor Tina Kotek issued a proclamation for May 2025 to be Older Americans Month. This month serves as a time to honor and recognize the contributions and sacrifices that older Americans have done for our state; along with addressing issues that affect the well-being, and health of older adults. Please see the proclamation issued by the Governor's Office, below.
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1710
Capitol Address: 900 Court St NE, S-411, Salem, OR, 97301
Email: Sen.DebPatterson@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/patterson
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