 Dear Neighbors and Community Members,
Shana Tova to all who celebrated Rosh Hashanah last week! May the New Year bring joy and good health to you and your loved ones. As we look to the future, it is my hope that we build toward peace, tolerance, and understanding. In this season of the High Holidays, I wish all who observe a meaningful period of reflection and renewal.
A highlight of the first day of September Legislative Days was that the Senate passed the transportation funding plan passed by the House in early September. This funding will protect essential services, preserve hundreds of jobs, and prevent devastating cuts to transit services across the state. Keep reading for more on the significance of this funding.
In this week's newsletter, you'll find:
- An update on the transportation special session bills
- My response to federal troops in Portland
- Info on new laws going into effect in September
- A recap of some great community traditions in Forest Grove
- My recent meeting with the Educator Advancement Council
- Celebrating National High School Activities Month
- Events and opportunities coming up in Western Washington County
 
💡Special Session Transportation Funding Passes 💡
Yesterday, my colleagues and I returned to Salem for September Legislative Days. The Senate convened to pass the Special Session funding plan—reconciling our current transportation budget and preserving essential operations.
Our transportation system is the foundation of our economy and communities. For over three years, I have worked to address our systemic funding crisis, maintain our system, and invest in safety and multimodal improvements. I have engaged with colleagues of all perspectives to find bipartisan solutions to our transportation funding issues. These bills reflect some of the compromises and shared priorities that came out of these bipartisan discussions.
We have explored potential solutions and worked with the Oregon Department of Transportation to implement strategic improvements and efficiencies. Some proposed that we dip into emergency reserves to fill the gap. This a short-term fix is not a viable solution. It fails to address the underlying revenue problem that we need to fix and would put us back in crisis in two years. Even worse, it would take away from our limited resources dedicated to wildfire response and other emergencies. Kicking the problem down the road will only make the fix more costly and put Oregon families at risk.
When the 2025 Legislative Session concluded without adequate funding for our system, we came back for a special session to address the budget gap. Half of the money in this package goes directly to cities and counties so local governments can fix potholes and maintain rural roads and bridges. The other half stabilizes core state services like snowplows and safety patrols. And we’ve added stronger oversight so ODOT has to prove it’s spending wisely. This isn’t about giving ODOT a blank check—it’s about keeping Oregon’s transportation system safe and reliable.
I voted yes on HB 3991 and HB 3992 when these bills came to the House of Representatives. This package is a critical step to stabilize our system and protect vital services, ensuring ODOT and our cities and counties have the resources to repair roads, respond to winter weather, and keep up regular maintenance.
I know Oregonians are facing very real cost of living challenges. Raising taxes and fees is nobody's first choice, but the cost of inaction is far too high. This funding is an investment in basic maintenance and safety. It includes important accountability measures and prioritizes fairness among users. It isn't a perfect solution, but it is an important step forward. I look forward to continuing dialogue with legislators and the public on long-term solutions and a path to sustainable funding for our system.
Responding to Federal Troops in Portland
I stand with our local leaders in opposition to President Trump's deployment of National Guard troops in Portland. This unwanted federal intervention is inappropriate and counterproductive to ensuring public safety in our communities. Senator Jeff Merkley recently shared an important message: "Let's not take the bait." We must stand up to this abuse of power peacefully and without escalation. Attorney General Dan Rayfield and the Oregon Department of Justice has already filed a motion to block the federalization of the National Guard. Let's remain calm, stay informed, and take care of our communities.
 
❗New Laws Go Into Effect September 26th ❗
During the 2025 Session, we worked to address issues at the top of Oregonians' minds. Some of the laws we passed will work to help families spend less on housing, increase protections for consumers, and strengthen privacy laws. Many laws are set to take effect on the 91st day after sine die. Below are new laws starting starting September 26th:
Expanding Affordable Housing Access (SB 1086 & HB 3232)
SB 1086 calls on the Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services to work with the Oregon Building Officials Association to propose an apprenticeship program for building inspectors, helping train and grow the workforce that’s essential for producing more housing options. HB 3232 makes it easier for certain affordable housing to get a property tax break, removing the rule that the housing must be built or changed after the tax break program started.
Preventing Youth Exposure to Marijuana Advertising (HB 3724)
HB 3724 prohibits the advertising, packaging, and labeling of marijuana products in ways that are likely to appeal to minors or encourage them to unlawfully possess or consume marijuana. The bill aims to reduce youth exposure to marketing that could normalize underage marijuana use while maintaining legal access for adults.
Strengthening Consumer Data Privacy in Vehicles (HB 3875)
HB 3875 requires motor vehicle manufacturers and their affiliates to comply with state privacy laws when collecting, controlling, or processing personal data obtained from a consumer’s use of a motor vehicle. The bill applies these privacy requirements regardless of how many consumers’ data the manufacturer or affiliate collect. Companies now must honor your request to delete your personal data, give you a copy of your data, or stop selling it or using it for targeted advertising.
Protecting Privacy in Short Term Rentals (SB 470)
SB 470 gives guests in Oregon hotels and short-term vacation rentals the authority to sue innkeepers, landlords, and reservation services if these rental providers record still photos, videos, or audio of the guests in private spaces. Until this law was passed, photos and videos taken or shared without consent counted as an invasion of privacy only if nudity was involved. SB 470 widens the definition to any images taken when a person reasonably expects privacy in their vacation rental or hotel room..
Protecting Job Applicants’ Privacy (HB 3187)
HB 3187 makes it illegal for employers to ask for or require certain information about a job applicant’s age or the dates they attended or graduated from school. The bill is designed to help prevent age discrimination in hiring.
Promoting Awareness of Cash Payment Requirements (SB 1176)
SB 1176 directs the Bureau of Labor and Industries to educate both businesses and residents about the rule that places of public accommodation, like retail stores and restaurants, must accept cash as payment for goods and services. The bill aims to make sure everyone understands their rights and responsibilities when it comes to accepting cash.
Regulating Compensation for Veteran Benefit Services (SB 150)
SB 150 is intended to protect veterans from being charged improper or excessive fees. Oregon has Veteran Services Offices (VSOs) all over the state that provide assistance claiming benefits at no charge to veterans. This new law bans anyone from taking compensation for services that are free through local VSOs, and the statute prohibits unreasonable fees for providing help that isn’t available at VSOs.
Oregon Department of Justice Consumer Survey
This survey is a chance for you to share how your family is impacted by the things you buy. Your responses will help the Attorney General better work for you whether by changing laws, providing education, or going after bad actors. It should take no longer than 10 minutes.
Oregonians should be treated fairly by all businesses. You shouldn't be tricked into spending money, and you should get what you pay for, from groceries to car insurance. If you are treated unfairly, there should be a way to fix it. Share your experiences by clicking below.
Amazing Work at the Sidewalk Chalk Art Festival!
We had another year of incredible artwork on our streets in Forest Grove for the annual Annual Sidewalk Chalk Art Festival. Talented artists from our local community and around region showcased their work for us all to enjoy. I've included a few of my favorite pieces from this year's event and a look-back on previous years!
ABOVE: Some of my favorites from this year's event
BELOW: A few of my all-time favorite pieces
Educator Advancement Council Meeting
On Wednesday, I spent most of my day at the September Educator Advancement Council meeting. The EAC is a partnership that coordinates a systemic approach to continuously assessing needs as well as coordinating priorities for services and resources to support Oregon educators.
We focused on addressing support, equity, professional growth, and exporting successful methods. The goal of our work is to help students succeed by supporting educator development. When each learner has what they need to succeed, we get good results.
Our meeting also focused on Regional Educator Networks as a way to promote professional learning that reflects local context and career stages. Our existing work has shown that these RENs are providing mentor support for new teachers, working with educators who serve specific student groups, and addressing the challenges that lead to retention issues. I am proud to serve on the EAC and look forward to our continued work to serve Oregon's educators, students, and families. When our teachers thrive, so do our students!
Forest Grove Annual Corn Roast
It was another great year at the Forest Grove Corn Roast! We celebrated local businesses, our educators, and community members with a fun event to kick-off the fall season. This year was the 61st Corn Roast in our community—our long-standing tradition is still going strong.
The first Corn Roast was held in 1964 as a way to introduce new educators to the community and celebrate the fall harvest. Thanks to all who made this year's event a success—the Forest Grove and Cornelius Chambers of Commerce, Rotary Club, Pacific University, the Fire Department, vendors, and volunteers! This was a great way to begin the new school year and come together as a community.
Catching Up with a Former Student
This week, I was excited to connect with my former speech-and-debate student and Team McLain intern, Luda. We had a great time catching up and discussing current events. She is working on policy in Washington DC. It is inspiring to see former students making an impact and becoming public service and policy leaders! We met up on the corner of Third Avenue, where we have three small and very active businesses in Hillsboro: Decadent Creations, Collective Market, and DAnu Tasting Room & Wine Bar.
Voyage of the Visionaries - Policy Makers Bike Ride
On Friday, my Chief of Staff, Grace, joined elected leaders, agency leaders, and community leaders for a 19-mile policy makers bike ride to experience some inspiring multi-use infrastructure and witness some major gaps in our networks. Throughout the ride, the group stopped and gathered to hear from leaders about challenges and opportunities for pedestrians and active transportation users. Thank you to the Oregon Trails Coalition, Street Trust, Metro, the Port of Portland, and many other partners who coordinated this event!
Washington County Housing Preservation Event
Preserving affordability and livability for residents is more important than ever. The Housing Authority of Washington County embarked upon comprehensive renovations called the Affordable Housing Preservation Portfolio Rehabilitation project. September marked the completion of that extensive multi-year renovation project of 10 affordable housing properties throughout the community.
The County hosted a celebration event last Friday. The event included speeches by community leaders, a celebratory ribbon cutting, and special before-and-after visual exhibits highlighting rehabilitation works that preserve much-needed affordable homes during our region’s worst housing crisis. This included rehab of: Bonita Villa and The Ridge at Bull Mountain in Tigard, Parkside and Villager in Forest Grove, Aloha Park in Beaverton, Holly Tree Village in Beaverton, Tarkington Square and Amberwood Apartments in Hillsboro, Marilann Terrace in Aloha, and Cornelius Village in Cornelius. In total, 592 apartments were modernized. Renovations focused on accessibility and energy efficiency, with modifications such as new roofing, siding, stairs, and paint, plumbing, electricity, heating, ventilation systems, appliances, and much more.
 
Celebrating High School Activities Month
The NFHS has designated the month of October as National High School Activities Month to help schools promote the values inherent in high school athletics, performing arts, and extracurricular activities.
As a former teacher and speech-and-debate coach, I have witnessed the powerful impact of school activities in our community. They connect students with mentors and peers, build confidence, and promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
On my speech-and-debate teams, I students learned how to engage in productive dialogue across differences. They practiced articulating the strengths of their argument and identifying logical errors. It is critical that we cultivate these skills in young people—especially as they enter a rapidly-evolving information ecosystem and digital landscape.
Thank you to all of the coaches, volunteers, and community leaders who make these opportunities available to youth. Your commitment enriches our community.
 
FGPD Winter Coat Drive
Between Wednesday, October 1-Friday, October 24, the FGPD will be accepting new and very-gently used winter coats to be shared with families in need in Forest Grove.
Donations can be brought to the FGPD station (2102 Pacific Avenue, next to the library during regular business hours (M-F, 8-4).
Additionally, coats may be brought to:
- FGPD booth at the Public Safety Open House on Saturday, October 4 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Forest Grove Fire Station
- FGPD booth at First Wednesday market on Wednesday, October 1st from 4-7 p.m
Collected coats will be distributed to families in need through GG's House in Forest Grove. For more information or questions, contact LQuinsland@forestgrove-or.gov.
2025 Public Safety Open House
Come hang out with the Police, Forest Grove Light & Power, the Library, Parks & Recreation, and more. Enjoy hands-on activities, bucket truck rides, and safety tips you can use!
WHERE: Forest Grove Fire Department (1919 Ash Street)
HillsDOer Day
HillsDOer Day is a community day of service. Find a volunteer opportunity for you or your family and join neighbors in helping make Hillsboro an even better place!
Join a group project or branch out on your own.
WHEN: October 4th
WHERE: Browse HillsDOer Day volunteer opportunities & sign up at Volunteer.Hillsboro-Oregon.gov.
My office has compiled a list of resources for our community. You can click on the images below to open a document with the relevant links. If you know of a resource that should be included here, or you need a resource and are having trouble finding the information you need, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office at rep.susanmclain@oregonlegislature.gov.
EDUCATION RESOURCES
Click here, or on the image to the right for a list of Education-related resources. This includes links to the Forest Grove and Hillsboro School Districts, the Oregon and US Departments of Education, information on how to pay for college, student lunch programs, and much more!
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WILDFIRE-RELATED RESOURCES
Click here, or on the image to the right for important resources related to wildfire prevention and recovery. This list includes links to current fire restrictions and recreation site status maps, the Oregon Department of Forestry's fire prevention tip page, and important resources for wildfire victims.
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RESOURCES FOR OUR VETERANS
Click here, or on the image to the right for a list of important resources for Veterans, including links and phone numbers to the various divisions of the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs, local Washington County assistance, supportive and community-based groups like the American Legion, and mental health resources.
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STATE & LOCAL GOVERNMENT
Click here, or on the image to the right for links to important local and state government pages, including the Hillsboro, Forest Grove, and Cornelius city government pages. You can also access the Oregon Legislature's page, and other important state agency sites, like the Department of Motor Vehicles, the Unemployment Department, and the Oregon Health Authority.
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This is my cat…16 year old Francy. She recently passed. She will be missed! She brought much joy to the whole family.
Yours truly,
 Representative Susan McLain
House District 29
email: Rep.SusanMcLain@oregonlegislature.gov I phone: 503-986-1429
address: 900 Court St NE, H-493, Salem, OR 97301
website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/mclain
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