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To contact me, please click here: Rep.TravisNelson@oregonlegislature.gov
May June Bring Us Policy Wins for Oregonians
The legislature is in a full rumble now and things are moving fast. Friday, May 23rd, marked the final deadline for most bills to move out of policy committees and now, we’re officially in the home stretch. The final countdown to Sine Die is on, and we’re laser-focused on pushing important legislation across the finish line.
While some bills have reached the end of the road, many are still alive and making progress. There’s still plenty of work ahead, and I am committed to getting our legislative priorities done.
Catch up below on where my key legislation stands and everything I have been up to. Thank you for staying engaged as we work toward a strong close to the 2025 session.
Saint Johns Parade
There’s nothing quite like the St. Johns Parade, and this year’s celebration was no exception. From floats to music to neighbors coming together, it was a beautiful day to feel proud of our community. Thank you to everyone who made it special. I will see you again next year!
Fun Fact: The St. Johns Parade is the oldest and only all-donation and volunteer parade and has been going since 1963!
New Appointments
House Committee on Early Childhood and Human Services
Due to Rep. Hoa Nguyen's health, I was appointed to serve in her place on the House Committee on Early Childhood and Human Services. I was happy to bring my experience and voice to the table and help where I could in the committee's final week.
Oregon Pain Managment Commision
I am honored that Speaker Fahey appointed me to be a voice on this commission to help advocate for all Oregonians. The Pain Oregon Pan Managment Commission represents the concerns of patients in Oregon on issues of pain management to the Governor and the Legislative Assembly. This will also be a great opportunity to continue my work and elevate the voices of those living with Sickel Cell Disease. I look forward to learning more about all of the topics that this commission brings to the table.
Legislative Updates
Bills That Have Been Signed into Law!
Bills that Have Passed both the House and Senate Chambers
- Passed unanimously in both the House and Senate.
- This bill ensures only licensed registered nurses are allowed to make medical decisions in schools. This is a win for student safety and dignity because every child deserves qualified care. This law is named for Hannah, and it's for every student like her.
SB 992 (Formerly HB 2921): Bottle Drop Siting
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This is a big win for Oregon and North Portland. and one that started with your voices. Section 9 of this Bottle Drop which ensures the application program more transparent has officially passed. This issue came up last year when Sait Johns neighborhood learned of a potential new site purchased without any community engagement or notification. When constituents speak up, change happens. This victory belongs to all of you. Read coverage from the Oregonian here.
Bills Awaiting House Concurrence
These bills have passed the Senate with amendments and now return to the House for final agreement:
Bills Approaching Final Floor Votes
Bills in Joint Ways and Means Committee
Bills Not Subject to Committee Deadlines
HR 3 - History of Black Drag in Oregon
SB 450 Ruby Bridges
HB 3403 - Diversity In School Educators and Staff
- This bill has the policy for a statewide database on education workforce which was previously in HB 3006.
Bills Unlikely to Move this Session
- This bill is currently in the Joint Transportation Committee, which operates on a slightly different timeline. However, it’s becoming increasingly unlikely that the bill will advance out of committee. In light of this, I’ve shifted my focus toward advocating for these funds to be allocated through other avenues. I remain deeply committed to ensuring this effort moves forward, one way or another.
HB 2990 - Language Access and Equity at the DMV
- Unfortunately, I’m not certain this will be able to move forward this session. However, Rep. Muñoz will be working with our office to bring it back during the short session.
Nurses Week
In recognition of National Nurses Week, I delivered a remonstrance on the House Floor highlighting the vital role nurses play in our healthcare system and the urgent need to support them beyond words. From understaffing to workplace safety, I will always fight for action, not just appreciation. You can watch it here.
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Revenue Forecast and What It Means for Oregon
On May 14, Oregon’s economists delivered our updated revenue forecast. The takeaway is stark:
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Trump-era trade policies are hurting Oregon. Our economy depends heavily on international trade, especially with countries like China. Tariffs and instability have caused direct harm.
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Business growth is slowing. Without a national economic plan, small and medium-sized businesses are hesitant to expand or invest.
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Working families are feeling the pressure. Uncertainty about Medicare & Medicaid, childcare, and rising living costs are dampening household spending.
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The risk of recession has increased. Economists made it clear that federal policy decisions are now a top economic threat.
Despite this, Oregon is in a better position than most states. Thanks to strategic budgeting over many years, we’ve built reserves and prioritized smart investments. But we must remain vigilant. We are balancing our budget under significant pressure—and that means making difficult decisions.
Democrats in the Legislature are fighting to protect Oregon’s core services of housing, schools, and public health even in the face of national economic headwinds.
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Speak up about what matters to you. Your input helps guide tough budget choices.
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Contact your federal representatives and urge them to oppose Medicare & Medicaid cuts and other harmful federal policy shifts.
Connecting With All of You
One of the most rewarding parts of this work is the chance to connect directly with constituents and advocates. I’m grateful to everyone who’s taken the time to stop by and share their perspectives. Your voices and stories help shape the work we do every dayy!
Wins at Rosevelt High School
Jazz Band
Last Friday, the RSH Jazz Band went up against the top 11 high school Jazz bands in Oregon at the OMEA State Jazz Championship. They came in 2nd Place! They were only 2 points behind Grant and they were 10 points in front of the 3rd place band.
Softball Team
Congratulations to the Roosevelt Roughrider Softball team on an incredible season and for earning the title of Portland Interscholastic League CHAMPIONS!
Friends of Nosie
I recently toured the future home of Friends of Noise, a youth-driven, all-ages music venue currently under construction in North Portland. Their mission is to create a safe, inclusive spaces for young people to perform, learn, and lead.
In preparation for open they have a unique fundraiser for their capital campaign. You can donate an Off Beat Season Pass, a monthly membership that gives teens access to 3 free shows, discounts, and workshops. Help them reach their goal of 1,000 donated passes to connect more youth with music and community.
Learn more or donate a pass at friendsofnoise.org
Concorde Commencement
I had the honor of giving this year’s commencement address at Concorde Career Colleges. This was a moment that reminded me of the power of purpose, perseverance, and the dreams that drive us. It also was a moment that allowed me to reflect on my own journey. To all graduates stepping into the next chapter, remember your courage to grow and serve is inspiring. Keep pushing forward!
River Lover’s Cruise on the Portland Spirit
This event is a thank-you to supporters and funders who have championed clean and accessible use of the Willamette River. It was also an opportunity to learn more about the current Human Access Project (HAP) and hear about the Ross Island Lagoon engineering efforts.
Project Access Now Gala
I had a wonderful time speaking at the annual Project Access NOW Gala alongside Representative Rob Nosse. It was a powerful evening celebrating the work being done to connect people across Oregon with the health care and resources they need. The event was held at Castaway in Portland and brought together community leaders, advocates, and supporters who all share a commitment to health equity. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the evening so impactful.
5th Anniversary of George Floyd’s Death
This month marks five years since the murder of George Floyd, a moment that ignited global outrage and renewed calls for racial justice. It turbocharged conversations about policing, equity, and the systemic changes still needed in our society. We still have too many disparities in health outcomes amongst black people. Black and brown families are still struggling. Let’s honor that legacy by continuing to listen, act, and build a more just and inclusive Oregon.
You can learn more here: Portlanders join nationwide action to commemorate 5th anniversary of George Floyd’s death - OPB
Follow My Social Media!
Make sure you don't miss any updates by following my official accounts at RepTravisNelson on Facebook and rep.nelsonofficial on Instagram!
You can also find my legislative website here!
The Final Stretch
Thank you for following along and staying engaged. We’re now in the final stretch of the legislative session, and your continued support, input, and advocacy are more important than ever. Whether you've emailed, testified, or simply kept up with our updates, it all matters. I'm grateful to be in this work with you, and I look forward to finishing strong together.
Best,
 Travis Nelson
State Representative
House District 44
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1444
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-275, Salem, Oregon 97301
Email: Rep.TravisNelson@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/nelson
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