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May 16th, 2025 Newsletter
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Governor Kotek signed multiple bills into law this week, including one of my legislative priorities. We also continued passing meaningful legislation on the floor and in committee meetings.
Legislative Priorities
Auto Dealer Financing
HB3178 requires more transparency and equity in regard to vehicle sales so that consumers are protected and not blindsided when a dealer over-promises and under-delivers in order to close the deal. The bill was signed into law by the governor on May 14th, 2025.
Age Discrimination in Job Applications
HB3187 addresses age discrimination in job applications by prohibiting an employer from asking the applicant’s age, date of birth, or date of graduation prior to the initial interview. The bill has now passed both the House and the Senate. It is headed to the Governor’s desk for signature!
Read the Press Release
No Medical Debt on Credit Reports
Watch my testimony
SB605 prohibits medical debt from being submitted to a credit reporting agency. Far too many Oregonians have their credit scores ruined by an illness, an unexpected medical emergency, or even an error on their bill. The long-term effects of this can cost them a job and make it harder for them to find a place to live. We held a public hearing on the bill this week in the House Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection.
HB3179 The Fair Energy Act is designed to limit increases in utility bills by requiring the Public Utility Commission to thoroughly consider the impact on consumers before approving a rate increase. The bill is scheduled for work session in the House Committee on Rules for May 19th.
Legislative Highlights
The Oregon House passed other significant legislation this week, including the following bills:
SB959 categorizes a signal jammer (aka a WIFI jammer) that can interfere with an alarm system as a burglary tool and makes it a crime to possess one with the intent to break into a premises or commit theft.
SB973 requires landlords to provide extended notice of impending affordability-restriction terminations.
SB1016 prohibits the Oregon Department of Human Services from using trash bags to transport a foster child’s belongings.
Governor Kotek also signed 21 bills into law this week, including the following:
HB2127 reforms and refines the rules of engagement between franchise auto dealers and the national manufacturers. It creates a more equitable environment for local dealerships and provides protections for consumers. The bill was signed by the Governor on May 12th, 2025.
HB 3447 requires businesses to verify that a person is at least 18 years old before they buy nitrous oxide. The bill was signed by the Governor on May 12th, 2025.
HB3020 prohibits wagering on dog races. The bill was signed by the Governor on May 7th, 2025.
Read: 21 bills signed into Oregon law by Gov. Kotek on Monday | kgw.com
Commerce & Consumer Protection
We held public hearings on:
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SB430 A promotes price transparency by requiring online sellers to advertise the total price of a consumer good or service. This will ban hidden “junk fees” and “drip pricing.”
- SB872 A enhances the disciplinary power of the State Mortuary and Cemetery Board.
Housing & Homelessness
We continued hearing testimony on SB974 A, which would require local governments or special districts to complete final review of final engineering plans for residential development within 90 days of submission.
Bill Tracking
Revenue Forecast
On Wednesday, May 14th, we listened to the economic and revenue forecast for the funding we anticipate for the next two years, and one thing was clear: Trump’s reckless and out-of-touch economic policies are hurting us here in Oregon.
Read more:
Session Deadlines Approaching!
In order for a bill to move forward in this session, it needs to be voted out of a policy committee by May 23rd. Committees on Conduct, Revenue, Rules, and Ways and Means are not subject to these deadlines.
Visit the Oregon Legislative Info System (OLIS) to search and track legislation through the session on topics like:
Notable Press Clippings
Consumer Protection
Bill bans Oregon employers from asking for applicants’ age - OPB
Consumer Privacy Laws Are Expanding Nationwide – Oregon Business
Housing & Homelessness
Oregon Senate passes ‘game-changer’ bill to streamline housing development
Bill to protect tenants from immigration status discrimination advances
$1.6 Million in Grants From Oregon Housing and Community Services
Labor & Workforce Development
Providence Health Plan cuts 4% of workforce amid financial struggles
Some Washington County businesses getting help to bolster security amid rise in thefts
Economic Development
More than 300 apartments, new retail, proposed to replace former Tanasbourne Macy’s in Hillsboro | Business | hillsboronewstimes.com
Downtown Hillsboro Arcade 2084 to shut down | Business | hillsboronewstimes.com
Education
Federal judge orders visas restored for Oregon students who sued Trump administration - OPB
University of Oregon receives $25M gift for global studies school | kgw.com
Transportation
Oregon Transportation Commission reveals I-5 Rose Quarter project costs now at $2 billion
Other
Federal chaos leaves Oregon’s economic outlook sluggish, uncertain, short hundreds of millions • Oregon Capital Chronicle
Tail-wagging showdown: 18th annual K-9 trials back in Hillsboro | News | hillsboronewstimes.com
Oregon Will Finally Exit the Dog-Racing Business
Environmentalists argue PacifiCorp’s wildfire liability burden is fueled by coal-protecting bills • Oregon Capital Chronicle
Hillsboro catcher finds home run of happiness with the Hops
Cornelius free food pantry opens amid federal cuts | News | hillsboronewstimes.com
Proposed federal SNAP cuts would leave Oregon families hungry, governor and senators warn • Oregon Capital Chronicle 4t
Oregon International Air Show @ Hillsboro Airport - May 16th - 18th
TedxYouth@Lincoln Street: Just Imagine... - May 16th
Third Annual Hagg Lake Fishing Tourney - May 17th
2025 Latino Business Summit - May 22nd
Hillsboro Hops 2025 Home Game Schedule
More Events
Oregon Department of Aviation Launches New Website
The updated website offers a more streamlined and intuitive experience, making it easier to access vital information regarding airport programs, safety initiatives, grant opportunities, and the significant economic contributions of aviation to our state.
Visit: https://www.oregon.gov/aviation
Special District Election - May 20th
Keep an eye on your mailbox because ballots are on their way! Voters should receive their ballots next week. If you don’t receive yours by May 7, contact the County Election Office at 503-846-5800 to request a replacement ballot.
Return your ballot in-person, by mail or at an Official Ballot Drop Box. Once completed, ballots can be delivered to Washington County Elections either in-person at the Elections Office located at 2925 NE Aloclek Dr, Hillsboro, OR 97124, by mail, or through an Official Ballot Drop Site until 8 p.m. on Election Day, May 20, 2025.
Learn more at: Elections Division | Washington County, OR
Oregon Digital Equity Program Grant
The Oregon Broadband Office is pleased to announce the release of the Oregon Digital Equity Program (ODEP) Grant Application for Education Service Districts (local educational agency), Public School Districts, Public Library Service Districts (community anchor institutions), Public Libraries and Public Schools (only if serving as a community anchor institution).
The Oregon Digital Equity Program Grant application period opened on Monday, April 7 and will close May 22, 2025, at 4:59 pm PST.
Visit the Oregon Digital Equity Program Grant webpagefor more information.
Immigration Resources
It is critical for Oregonians to receive the support they need during this time. For a list of resources, see below:
Double Up Food Bucks
Spring is arriving and farmers markets are opening! Shopping at a farmers' market is a great way to find the freshest food for your family, while supporting our local farmers and small businesses. Double Up Food Bucks helps make farmers markets affordable and accessible for all.
This program matches SNAP benefits, dollar for dollar, for the purchase of fresh fruits and vegetables. Double Up is also available at participating small grocers, farm stands, and Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs. Check the map here for locations that participate in our district. Happy eating!
Salvation Army Washington County Hope Center
Pathway of Hope Program, Mobile Outreach Program, and Food Pantry
503-640-4311
Food Access
Find free groceries, meals, or fresh produce near you.
Utility Bill Assistance
The City of Hillsboro is committed to helping customers in need. If you are having trouble paying your utility bill, visit the City’s Utility Assistance webpage or call 503-681-6163 to see if you qualify for a flexible payment plan or bill relief option.
Visit our Utility Rate Adjustments webpage to learn more about when & how the rates on your City of Hillsboro Utility Bill are reviewed and adjusted to support the costs of providing quality utility services throughout the community.
You can also visit our Community Resources webpage to find information on reduced garbage rates, energy & rent assistance, food pantries, weatherization programs, and more.
Don't forget to contact my office with any questions or feedback. Your best way to connect with us is via email: Rep.NathanSosa@oregonlegislature.gov or visit our office (H-280) Monday-Thursday between 9:30am-3pm.
Take care!
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1430
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-280, Salem, Oregon 97301
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