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Friends,
There’s a lot happening in Oregon right now — and much of it directly affects our families, our communities, and the future of our state. Whether it’s tackling the fentanyl crisis, expanding access to mental health care, fixing broken systems, or protecting taxpayer dollars, I’ve been working hard in Salem to advance real, meaningful solutions that reflect the values we share in House District 31.
As we mark Mental Health Awareness Month, I’ve been especially focused on the families in our community who are struggling — from addiction and abuse to a lack of basic support and public safety resources. Too often, these families are left to navigate crisis alone. I’m committed to making sure they’re seen — and supported.
That’s why I invited Senator Suzanne Weber and Representative Cyrus Javadi to join me in calling on Oregon’s U.S. Senators to restore $1 million in Congressionally Directed Spending originally allocated to the Amani Center — the only Child Advocacy Center serving Columbia County.
The Amani Center is a lifeline for children who have experienced abuse and trauma. Without this funding, its planned expansion is at risk — and so is the critical care it provides to more than 700 children every year.
📄 Read our full letter of support
This isn’t about a building. It’s about hope, healing, and justice.
Thank you for standing with me as we work to support Oregon families — and build a safer, stronger future for all.
Sincerely,
Representative Darcey Edwards
House District 31
Oregonians shouldn’t have to pay more for services they don’t use. That’s why I’m supporting a new transportation proposal that identifies over $685 million in savings — all while protecting road safety and preserving federal funding, without raising taxes.
This plan:
✔️ Refocuses ODOT on core infrastructure, not political agendas
✔️ Protects federal transportation dollars
✔️ Preserves critical public safety services
📄 Read more: Transportation Proposal
Last week, federal authorities announced one of the largest fentanyl busts in U.S. history — more than 400 kilograms seized, including arrests here in Oregon. One cartel leader was found living in Salem, despite having been deported twice.
This isn’t just a border issue. It’s in our neighborhoods, our schools, and tragically — our homes.
In 2022, fentanyl was involved in 65% of Oregon’s overdose deaths. It is the deadliest illicit drug in our state.
For me, this is personal.
Last week, I shared the hardest story I’ve ever told — my own son’s fentanyl overdose.
One pill. One moment. By the grace of God, he survived.
🎥 Watch my full remarks
I’m sharing this not because it’s easy, but because too many parents are living this nightmare in silence. We need real accountability, real recovery options, and real urgency — and I won’t stop fighting for that.
Here’s a quick look at some of our key bills with updates on where they stand in the process:
✅ HB 3936 – Protecting State Devices from Malicious AI
Expands the authority of the State Chief Information Officer to ban software from entities deemed security threats — now including Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Status: Passed the house on 5/14
✅ SB 710 – Mandatory Continuing Education for State Judges
Authorizes the Chief Justice of the Oregon Supreme Court to establish continuing education requirements for state judges, including training on domestic violence and sexual assault.
Status: Signed by the Senate President and House Speaker on 5/6 Governor Signed 5/14
✅ SB 83 – Repeal The Wildfire Map
Repeals Oregon’s wildfire hazard map and directs the State Fire Marshal to develop a model code for defensible space to reduce wildfire risk.
Status: Work session scheduled for 5/20
🔄 HB 2522 – Headlights in the Rain
Requires drivers to turn on headlights when using windshield wipers — a simple safety measure to improve visibility during rainy conditions.
Status: Work session scheduled for 5/19
🔄 SB 9 – Rural DMV
Directs DMV field offices in rural counties to prioritize service for rural residents. Ensures limited-capacity offices are focusing on the communities they’re meant to serve.
Status: House Second Reading 5/15
🔄 SB 551 – Plastic Bag Ban
Modifies Oregon’s checkout bag regulations by banning plastic bags and allowing paper bags only. Earlier provisions that would have banned single-use utensils, condiment packets, and beauty products were removed — a relief for many small businesses. This would have been devastating to small businesses, and it's a good thing it was removed from the bill.
Status: Work Session held 5/15
This Saturday, May 17, I’m inviting you to join me at an event that’s close to my heart — the Columbia County NAMIWalks & Mental Health Fair in St. Helens.
🗓️ Saturday, May 17
📍 McCormick Park, 475 S 18th St,St. Helens, OR 97051
⏰ 10:00 AM Registration & Health Fair Begin | 11:00 AM Walk begins
This free, family-friendly event aims to raise awareness about mental health, reduce stigma, and support those affected by mental illness. Attendees can participate in the walk, explore resource booths, and engage with the community to promote mental wellness.
For more information, please visit the NAMIWalks Event Page.
Stay up to date and see what I’ve been working on in Salem by watching recent speeches and testimony:
🎥 Testifying in support of House Bill 3936
🎥 Floor Speech on House Bill 3936
🎥 Floor Speech on the Fentanyl Drug Crisis
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1431
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-374, Salem, Oregon 97301
Email: Rep.DarceyEdwards@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/edwards
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