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To contact me, please click here: Rep.RickLewis@oregonlegislature.gov
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
The last gavel of the 2025 session fell on Friday, June 27th, at 11:15 pm. The chamber seats are empty, and the session is officially adjourned – Sine Die.
Looking into the rearview mirror of the nearly six-month session offers interesting reflections of what I would describe as unfolding like a slow boil – starting with cautious deliberation, incremental progress, an overall sense we were circling big issues without a solid plan for how to navigate those issues successfully in the highly partisan climate we live in. Throughout the months, tension and urgency steadily built beneath the surface as deadlines approached and undefined priorities piled up in the final stretch. What had simmered for months erupted into a rolling boil of intense negotiations, rapid bill movement, and last-minute decisions that defined this week’s closing days of the session.
What took centerstage as the session’s hot button issue was a transportation package that made a roundabout way of materializing – and both parties putting forth their proposals. In the last hours, House Republicans delivered a major victory for working class Oregonians by defeating House Bill 2025 B, one of the largest tax hikes in Oregon’s history. With an estimated $11.7 billion price tag, HB 2025 B would have added dozens of new taxes and fee increases to fund a progressive left agenda that would harm Oregonians. Governor Kotek officially announced that the Supermajority failed to muster the votes during the House Committee on Rules today.
Also, after several unsuccessful attempts by my caucus to force a floor vote on SB 83 to repeal the Statewide Wildfire Hazard Map, the majority party finally relented and agreed to move it forward. It passed with strong bipartisan support on Wednesday. This is a major win for rural Oregonians, providing relief from costly mandates and focusing resources on local wildfire prevention efforts.
All that said, the legislature's only constitutional duty is to balance the state’s budget. That has been achieved. A record number of legislative proposals were introduced, and a record number of bills, both good and bad, died. Measures that made it across the finish line await their turn for the Governor’s signature, or not… and in some cases vetoes.
Legislators are eager to return to their districts and to their families. Many will return to full-time professions as, lawyers, health care workers, farmers, teachers, business owners, public safety professionals, and retirees. Oregon legislators are “citizen legislators”. Our heart of service runs deep and our love for Oregon and her people is immense. Being back in district also provides opportunities for me to spend time with constituents, provide updates about the session, and listen to your views and values. Unless a special session is called, legislators are not scheduled to return to Salem until late-September for interim committee days.
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Once the dust has settled, I will provide a recap of the 2025 Session in a more detailed review. Until then, summer welcomes us to many adventures. It is a season we all enjoy - offering fairs, festivals, and time with family and friends. Please keep in mind - Oregon’s Wildfire season is already active on many fronts. As we head into another beautiful Oregon summer, it’s important to remember that our state’s natural beauty comes with responsibility. Whether you are hiking, camping, or enjoying your backyard, please do your part to prevent wildfires. Let’s work together to protect our communities, first responders, and wildlands. A single spark can start a disaster — but with awareness and care, we can all help keep Oregon safe.
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- Know before you go – Check local fire danger levels and restrictions at: https://www.oregon.gov/ODF
- Never leave campfires unattended – Make sure they are cold to the touch before you leave
- Avoid using fireworks, sky lanterns, or any open flames in dry areas
- Keep vehicles off dry grass – Hot exhaust can ignite a fire
- Carry water, a shovel, and a fire extinguisher when recreating outdoors
It has been a great honor to serve you and our communities at your State Capitol this session. Please stay in touch and reach out if there are any issues my office can assist you with.
Happy Summer and Happy Sine Die!
Sincerely,
Rick Lewis
State Representative
House District 18
Oregon’s Christmas Tree District
HB 2977 - Increases the State Transient Lodging Tax
Rep. Lewis shares his frustrations about the underfunding the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) budget…
“This bill is not the way to do it.”
(Replay floor remarks here.)
HB 2005 – Changes Laws on When People with Mental Illness can be Required to Get Treatment
Rep. Lewis speaks in opposition of HB 2005 B.
“It’s time that we recognize that we’re not addressing the root cause of the problem when it comes to mental illness. We continue to put band aids on a more significant problem.”
(Replay floor remarks here.)
SB 243 C – Firearms
Rep. Lewis speaks out in strong opposition of SB 243 C. He also calls out how the Majority party killed HB 3443, a strong public safety measure proposed by the Multnomah County District Attorney and a Democrat. That measure would have enhanced penalties for felons who engage in human trafficking, drug activity, cartels, and those engaged in illegal firearms distribution. If we want safety in our communities, we must hold those who are engaged in harmful activities accountable. HB 3443 is the bill that should have been debated, because unlike SB 243, it would have targeted criminals - not law-abiding citizens.
“Public safety policy must be grounded in facts, not fear. It must be enforceable, not theoretical. And it must focus on criminals, not responsible citizens. This is Terrible Legislation.”
(Replay floor remarks here.)
This session we had three other gun bills that we were successfully able to kill. HB 3076, HB 3075, and SB 473 that was a gut and stuff materialized into a gun bill late in session. I am proud of the work we did to hold strong and protect our Second Amendment rights.
Courtesies – Thank you to Oregon State Police (OSP).
Rep. Lewis extends courtesies to OSP for their service to the legislative assembly.
“Their vigilance and professionalism is much appreciated.”
(Replay floor remarks here.)
 
It was a pleasure to visit with students from the Boys and Girls State program this last week of session. Students with the Boys and Girls State programs participate in an immersive, week-long leadership and citizenship experience for high school juniors, sponsored by the American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary. These programs are designed to educate young people about the structure and functioning of government by simulating the processes of local, county and state elections, and legislature. Participants, often called “citizens,” from their own mock governments, campaign for office, pass legislation, and engage in debates, gaining a practical understanding of civic responsibility and democratic principles. Boys and Girls State not only foster leadership and public speaking skills but also promote patriotism, critical thinking, and lifelong civic engagement. Thank you, Chance from JFK High School in Mt. Angel, for your visit and engaging questions.
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On June 9th, I spoke on the House Floor to recognize the 250th birthday of the United States Army. The U.S. Army was born on June 14, 1775, to provide for the common defense of the original 13 colonies suddenly at war with their parent nation. This force was consolidated from various militia groups scattered throughout the colonies that had originally been organized and trained to fight for the crown. This consolidation of militias became known as the Continental Army and was formally inaugurated by the Second Continental Congress on June 14, 1775. At its peak, the Continental Army numbered nearly 50,000. At the end of the Revolutionary War when America gained its independence, the Congress created the Army of the United States in the U.S. Constitution. To this day, the Army which is the oldest branch of military service considers its origin to be the Continental Army.
On June 14th, the U.S. Army celebrates its 250th birthday. An anniversary parade is scheduled for the 14th in Washington DC. For 250 years, the United States Army has played a vital role in defending America. From the Revolutionary War to the present day, Americans have served selflessly – many sacrificing their lives – in defense of the country. Our service members’ courage, loyalty, and dedication have inspired generations. At the same time, Army-led innovations, and breakthroughs – from radar and the internet, from Jeeps to ray ban sunglasses, to everyday items like wireless communications – have advanced our national security, transformed global commerce, and propelled American’s economic development.
In the words of former General of the Army Douglas MacArthur in his farewell address to Congress in April 1951, “The soldier above all others prays for peace, for it is the soldier who must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war”.
As an Army veteran of the Vietnam Era, I wish the United States Army a happy 250th birthday.
I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Oregon Military Department (OMD) / Oregon National Guard (ONG) for hosting an informative demonstration of the new medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) technology earlier this month. While I wasn’t able to attend in person, I wanted to showcase the impressive and important work they are doing in or state.
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The Future Vertical Lift (FVL) MEDEVAC Demonstrator – a mockup of the V-28 Valor’s interior represents a significant opportunity for innovation in military medical response. It’s an incredible distinction that Oregon is the only reserve unit in the country invited to participate in this project. The fact that our flight medics’ feedback will help shape the final production design is a powerful testament to their expertise and professionalism.
I also want to highlight the rescue hoist demonstration using the VITA Rescue System (VRS). This cutting-edge, anti-spin technology, powered by gyros and fans, is a major advancement in hoist safety, and Oregon’s role as one of just two Army units nationwide authorized to use it is truly commendable.
Thank you again to everyone at OMD/ONG who made this event possible. Your dedication, innovation, and service continues to make Oregon proud.
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We are days away from celebrating Independence Day. As we gather with family and friends to celebrate the Fourth of July, let us take a moment to reflect on the meaning of this day – our nation’s founding, the enduring principles of liberty and self-governance, and the generations of Americans who have worked to protect and strengthen them.
Wishing you an Independence Day that is filled with pride in our shared history and optimism for our future.
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1418
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-385, Salem, Oregon 97301
Email: Rep.RickLewis@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/lewis
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