|
2025 End of Session Newsletter
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
The 2025 Legislative Session is now over. While I am disappointed that we did not pass a transportation package to repair our roads and bridges, I am proud of the work we did throughout the session. I am also excited that several of my priority bills passed.
Our team remained committed to helping constituents. We responded to over 1,800 constituent emails and phone calls during the session. We assisted in over 40 cases, on topics including accessing unemployment and disability benefits, connecting with government agencies, feeling safe in our community, obtaining mental health and healthcare services, and resolving property and infrastructure concerns.
Over the past several months, we held 4 constituent coffees and 2 town halls. I appreciate everyone who attended and shared their views.
Our commitment to the people of House District 30 doesn't stop here. I look forward to the important work we will do in the interim and in upcoming legislative sessions.
Legislative Priorities
I championed several bills which passed this session – including:
Watch my Floor Speech on the FAIR Energy Act
FAIR Energy Act
HB3179 (FAIR Energy Act) overhauls the rate-setting process for gas and electric bills so that consumers’ interests are prioritized over those of utility investors. (Press Release) (News Article)
Age Discrimination
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.
Auto Financing
HB3178 requires more transparency and equity in regard to vehicle sales so that consumers are protected and not blindsided when a car dealer over-promises and under-delivers in order to close the deal.
Hidden Fees
SB430 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.”
Medical Debt Reporting
SB605 prohibits the inclusion of medical debt on credit reports so that someone’s financial future is not ruined because of an unexpected illness or injury.
Telemarketing Modernization
HB3865 updates existing telemarketing laws to include texting, sets the maximum number of solicitations to 3 per day, and prohibits solicitations after 8:00 p.m
Community Investments We also passed HB5006, which included funding for the following investments in our community:
- $1.25 million for the design and planning of the Washington County Courthouse Replacement Project.
- $4.8 million for technical assistance grants to support small businesses.
- $314,806 for work study programs to connect college students with local non-profits.
HD30 Team
I am deeply grateful to my amazing staff that supported me over the past several months.
Lexie Weaver, my chief of staff, was the cornerstone of our office. She managed our team, assisted in the development of policy proposals, and helped me advance high-profile bills.
Cassidy VanDomelen, my legislative assistant, was the public face of our team. She handled calendaring, communications, constituent concerns, and meetings with multiple stakeholders on a variety of bills. Her positivity and energy were contagious.
Sofia Daukas and Gia Patel, our interns, furnished invaluable support by conducting research, drafting correspondence, and preparing news / issue briefs to keep me informed. They asked excellent questions, and I hope they enjoyed the experience.
August 18th Town Hall
Join me, Representative Susan McLain, and Senator Janeen Sollman for a Joint Town Hall on Monday, August 18th from 6-8pm at The Hillsboro Civic Center Auditorium (150 E Main St, Hillsboro, OR 97123).
Celebrating Independence Day
Wishing you a safe and joyful Independence Day!
If fireworks are part of your 4th of July plans, know where you can & cannot use them. Fireworks are prohibited on beaches, at state parks, on state or federal lands, and in some communities or other parts of the state. Check before you light: learn more about fireworks and restrictions in Oregon at Oregon State Fire Marshal : Fireworks-Education : State of Oregon
Notable Press Clippings
Legislative Overview
Oregon Legislature adjourns 2025 session as Democrats’ transportation plans stumble
A county fair, a bridge, a port: See who got millions in 11th hour spending bills
Consumer Protection
Legislation passes to make Oregon utility bills more affordable - oregonlive.com
Oregon lawmakers pass bill to strengthen the state’s energy assistance program - OPB
Bill that promotes transparent ticket prices awaits Gov. Kotek's signature - KOBI-TV NBC5 / KOTI-TV NBC2
Housing & Homelessness
Oregon lawmakers pass $2.6 billion housing budget bill that would cut eviction prevention funding - OPB
What Oregon’s hospital discharge data shows about treating homeless people - oregonlive.com
Labor & Workforce Development
Oregon governor signs bill providing unemployment pay for striking workers
Economic Development
Washington County proposes higher library levy to sustain countywide services | Hillsboro News Times
At Hillsboro’s newest rooftop restaurant, it’s small plates, big flavors with a view | Hillsboro News Times
Education
Oregon bill threatening Multnomah County’s ‘Preschool for All’ program is dead
Oregon lawmakers poised to pass $3.9B higher education budget. Advocates say public colleges will be short-changed | Jefferson Public Radio
U.S. Senate passes bill to reauthorize funding for rural Oregon, Idaho schools • Oregon Capital Chronicle
Other
DEI policies could be on chopping block in Washington County
How will state fund fighting Oregon wildfires? Kicker, rainy day fund among proposals
Community Announcements
Burn Bans in Effect
Washington County and Portland have enacted a high fire danger burn ban in anticipation of this summer's busy wildfire season and existing dry conditions.
Wildfire Season Resouces
It’s wildfire season - make sure you and your family are prepared in case of an emergency. Visit www.ready.gov/plan to learn more about developing an emergency plan and creating a go-kit ready with supplies for health, safety and identification.
Planning to have a campfire or burn pile? Depending on where you are in Oregon and that area’s fire environment, restrictions or bans may be in effect limiting certain activities that commonly start wildfires. Check out https://tiny.cc/odffirerestrictions for information on public fire restrictions before burning.
More resources:
Prepare for Extreme Heat
Now is the time to prepare for extreme heat. High temperatures can be dangerous, especially for older adults, young children, pets and people without access to cooling. As temperatures rise, it's important to stay informed and take simple steps to stay safe.
- Stock up on water and make hydration part of your daily routine.
- Identify cool places you can go during the hottest parts of the day, such as libraries, community centers or malls.
- Check your fans and air conditioning to make sure they're working properly.
- Plan to check on family, neighbors, and pets who may be at risk during extreme heat.
Preparing today can save lives tomorrow. Let's work together to keep our community safe, healthy and cool all summer long.
Capitol School Tours Are Back!
We are excited to announce the return of our full school tour program for the 2025-2026 school year. We are booking school tours now!
As part of the school tour program, students fourth grade and older can experience a one-hour tour of the building, with stops in the House and Senate Chambers, and of course, the Rotunda. Contact us today and schedule your on-site school tour. Call 503-986-1388 or submit the School Tour Request Form subject to tour availability. Tours are at 10:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, starting October 13 to May 29.
Guided virtual tours are available. Minimum of 10 students required. You can request a virtual tour by filling out the School Virtual Tour Form.
Free Food Market
- Beaverton-Hillsboro DHS Free Food Market: 5300 NE Elam Young Pkwy Hillsboro OR 97124
- Shop for free, fresh, and healthy fruits, vegetables, and pantry staples.
- This food is free, and anybody is welcome
- No identification, name, or address needed
- Please bring bags or boxes
Free Food Market: Every Second Tuesday of the Month | News & Announcements | City of Hillsboro, OR (hillsboro-oregon.gov)
Summer Grocery Benefits Return
We're happy to celebrate that Summer EBT, which provides an additional $120 in grocery benefits per eligible child, is back for its second year in Oregon! Last week, 341,504 children received food benefits to make sure they have nutrition during summer months, when school is out and child hunger spikes.
Details: Summer EBT is back! - Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon
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.
Immigration Resources
It is critical for Oregonians to receive the support they need during this time. For a list of resources, see below:
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. During the interim, our office in Salem is not staffed. Your best way to connect with us is via email: Rep.NathanSosa@oregonlegislature.gov
Take care!
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1430
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-280, Salem, Oregon 97301
|
