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November 2025 Newsletter
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
We are approaching November Legislative Days and looking ahead to the upcoming short session in February. I've been focused on developing legislation and engaging in workgroups. I also attended a ceremonial bill signing with the governor and participated in numerous tours as well as community events.
Ceremonial Bill Signing
Preventing Wage Theft
I joined Governor Tina Kotek, several of my colleagues, and Oregon workers for the ceremonial signing of SB426, which holds general contractors jointly liable for unpaid wages owed to the employees of subcontractors. The bill cracks down on dishonest subcontractors who routinely rip off their workers and the general contractors who enable them in order to gain a competitive advantage. I am thankful to everyone who helped to pass this bill.
Remembering Representative Hoa Nguyen
It is with a heavy heart that I learned of the passing of my friend and colleague, Hoa Nguyen. For the past three years, I had the privilege of working alongside her as she fought for Oregonians, and particularly for students. She was compassionate and courageous, thoughtful and strong. Her loss is deeply felt and our condolences go out to her family.
Upcoming Legislative Dates
November Legislative Days will take place at the Oregon State Capitol from Nov. 17th - Nov. 19th. We hold informational hearings and delve into concepts that may come before us during the short session in February 2026. You can watch the hearings through the Oregon Legislative Information Service (OLIS) website.
In The Community
Center for Addictions Triage and Treatment Grand Opening
I was honored to attend and speak at the ribbon cutting for the new Center for Addictions Triage and Treatment (CATT) in Tanasbourne. It’s a beautiful facility that will provide much-needed support to those who are struggling in our community. It is also an excellent example of cooperation between the federal, state, and local government as well as non-profit and community partners. To learn more, please visit Center for Addictions Triage and Treatment (CATT).
Washington County Economic Development Crisis & Opportunity Forum
I joined my colleagues for a thoughtful discussion at the economic development forum hosted by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. My sincere thanks to the business owners who shared their thoughts and concerns. I look forward to working with them as well as the Chamber to promote economic growth and the creation of family-wage jobs here in our community.
Kaiser Westside Hospital Tour
I attended a tour of Kaiser's Westside Medical Center. We visited the emergency department as well as the maternity ward. I am deeply grateful to the doctors, nurses, and staff who provide care to our community. I am also committed to working with them on the problems caused by the federal government’s cuts to Medicaid.
Biotech Caucus Meeting
I was excited to participate in the inaugural meeting of Oregon's new Biotech Caucus. It is a group of state lawmakers, local officials, researchers, and business leaders who are committed to growing Oregon’s bio science and technology sector. Our first meeting was held at Aronora Inc. in Portland. We toured their facility and learned about the innovative work they are doing on medications for blood diseases.
Snap Program Updates
With food support from the federal government vanishing, hunger is a growing concern in our community. Local grocers are also feeling the impact. Now is the time for all of us to step up and do what we can to help.
I joined my colleagues, Rep. Susan McLain and Senator Janeen Sollman, in purchasing food and household items from Super Mercado Mexico in Hillsboro. We donated everything to Centro Mercado, a free food market in Cornelius.
It is also vital for us to show support for, and solidarity with, our Latino community in this difficult time.
Update from the Governor's Office
As of today, Friday November 7th, Oregonians have their full November SNAP benefits restored on their Oregon Trail cards. This means all Oregonians receiving SNAP will have their monthly benefit available NOW, regardless of their usual payment schedule.
This is a huge relief. 750,000 Oregonians, approximately 210,000 of whom are children and 130,000 are adults 65+, rely on SNAP to put food on the table. I’m grateful to Gov. Kotek for her leadership, Attorney General Dan Rayfield for joining other states in using the courts to get SNAP funds released, and to the thousands of businesses, non-profits, and community leaders who showed up to donate and volunteer to make sure families are fed.
How did this happen?
To get leverage in the ongoing federal shutdown, the Trump Administration chose to completely cut off SNAP benefits, despite having billions of dollars in reserve to fund the program. After multiple clear court orders required the administration to fully fund SNAP, they have finally released the funds for all recipients nationwide, including more than 750,000 Oregonians.
Following Governor Tina Kotek’s directive, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) worked through the night to issue full November benefits by Friday morning so families across the state can access the food they need.
Because of the emergency preparations put in place by Governor Kotek, ODHS was able to work quickly with its electronic benefits transfer (EBT) vendor to ensure the funds were available as soon as the funds were released, making Oregon one of the earliest states to process benefits for residents upon receipt of the judge’s order.
Check your EBT Card Balance Before Shopping
Before shopping, people should check their EBT card balance to make sure their benefits have been issued. There are several ways to find out how much money is in your account.
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Call customer service toll-free at 888-997-4447.
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Check online by logging in to your EBT account.
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If you have the ebtEDGE mobile app, you can check your balance there. Only use the official ebtEDGE website and mobile app for Apple or Android. ODHS does not support any other EBT management apps or websites.
If you are expecting a SNAP balance and don’t see one, call the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075. Electronic theft of benefits from EBT cards is on the rise nationwide. Take steps to protect your card and benefits. ODHS will continue to share updates at: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/news/Pages/snap-updates.aspx.
Where to Find Food
Search for local food resources:
How to Help
If you’re able, we encourage you to shop local and donate to food banks or community donation sites in your area:
Immigration Enforcement by the Federal Government
Personal Statement
It is deeply disturbing to hear and see what federal immigration agents are doing in our communities. Masked men are smashing in people's vehicle windows, forcing them out of their cars at gunpoint, and breaking down the doors of their homes. They are hustling them into unmarked vans and transporting them out-of-state. All of this is being done without warrants and with virtually no due process. Citizens and those who have complied with our immigration laws are being swept up alongside undocumented residents. These actions are an affront to our rights as Oregonians as well as Americans. While our state government cannot prevent federal immigration enforcement, please know that we are actively exploring how we might put a stop to their egregious tactics.
It is critical for Oregonians to receive the support they need during this time. For a list of resources, see below:
Understanding Your Rights
Legal Representation/Resources
Reporting Injustice
Statement from the City of Hillsboro
Watch the message from Mayor Pace and Police Chief Coleman
We know there is fear and concern in our community about federal immigration enforcement activities. Many are afraid to go to work, go to school, access crucial resources, or simply live their lives. We cannot prevent federal immigration enforcement, but we want everyone to feel safe and know they have support.
As a sanctuary city, the Hillsboro Police Department does NOT coordinate with ICE or enforce immigration law. HPD is committed to serving and protecting everyone.
Washington County Issues State of Emergency
On Tuesday, Nov. 4, the Washington County Board of Commissioners declared two states of emergency in response to recent federal activity across the county related to the immigration and refugee community and growing food insecurity following the suspension of federal benefits. The declarations will remain in effect until December 31, 2025.
These emergency declarations enable the County to:
- Enter into mutual aid agreements with other government entities to ensure basic needs are met.
- Redirect county funds for emergency use.
- Take immediate actions necessary to protect life and property.
Celebrating Native American and Alaska Native Heritage Month
Each November, Native American and Alaska Native Heritage Month is celebrated by honoring and learning about the rich histories, cultures and vital contributions of those whose ancestors have lived on this land since time immemorial.
On October 28th, Washington County's Board of Commissioners proclaimed November as Native American and Alaskan Native Heritage Month in Washington County, honoring the cultures, traditions and accomplishments of Indigenous people that have shaped our country, and acknowledging our nation’s history of colonialism that has inflicted discrimination, deprivation, violence and genocide upon Indigenous communities.
As we honor Native American and Alaskan Native Heritage Month, we recognize the people on whose land we live—the Atfalati-Kalapuyans, also known as the Tualatin Band of Kalapuyans, the original inhabitants of Washington County, who thrived here for thousands of years with their own systems of medicine, language, communities, and economy.
Read the Proclamation
Honoring Veterans Day
On November 11th, we honor all who served our country with the military. There will be a presentation at the Washington County Veterans Memorial featuring keynote speaker Hillsboro Mayor and United States Army Veteran Beach Pace.
Date:11/11/2025 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Location: Washington County Veterans Memorial Gateway
Intersection of NE Veterans Dr & NE 34th Ave
Hillsboro, Oregon
Constituent Coffee: Tomorrow Nov. 8th
I invite you to join me tomorrow Saturday, November 8th from 9:00-10:30am, for a conversation about the issues that matter most to you, your family, and your community. This month, we will meet at Insomnia - Tanasbourne, located at 9355 NE Windsor St, Beaverton, OR 97006.
I hope that you will stop by, say hello, and enjoy a cup of coffee with me.
Food Donations Encouraged
Please feel free to bring non-perishable food and household items to the constituent coffee and our team will make sure it is delivered to local food banks and community distribution sites to support neighbors in need.
Notable Press Clippings
Consumer Protection
New Oregon bill would eliminate hidden ticket sale fees, crack down on deceptive resellers | Consumer | centraloregondaily.com
Oregon lawmakers ask that utility companies keep lights, gas on for ‘struggling’ residents
Housing & Homelessness
Oregon coast homebuilders tap new state loan program for middle-income homes - oregonlive.com
OR housing crisis: Washington County opens new zone-based low-income housing
Labor & Workforce Development
Oregon’s Rural Counties Are the Hardest Hit by the Federal Government Shutdown
New Oregon unemployment claims point to weaker job market - oregonlive.com
Wells Fargo Oregon layoffs: Bank to eliminate jobs in Portland, Salem and Hillsboro
Economic Development
Increased ICE presence takes a toll on Oregon’s Latino businesses • Oregon Capital Chronicle
Oregon taxpayers to get $1.41B kicker credit on 2025 taxes due to revenue surplus
Oregon’s economic outlook clouded by tariffs and federal spending cuts - OPB
Governor Kotek hails success of trade mission to Asia, aims to boost Oregon's global ties
Education
Oregon education leaders face looming financial crunch, lobby for more time and money from the state - OPB
‘This community is not the enemy’: Hillsboro teachers form neighborhood ICE watch - OPB
Federal education cuts abandon students with disabilities • Oregon Capital Chronicle
Other
Oregon SNAP benefits to be fully funded for November, Gov. Kotek says • Oregon Capital Chronicle
Washington County leaders call mass ICE arrests ‘racist, arbitrary and violent’ - OPB
Voters approve Washington County levy funding local libraries - oregonlive.com
Veterans Day Celebration - November 11th
M&M Marketplace Resource Fair - November 11th
Nature at Noon: Amberglen Park - November 12th
Community Resource Fair - November 15th
Turkey Trot - November 22nd
Hillsboro Holly Days Tree Lighting Ceremony - November 22nd
Winter Village Ice Skating - November 30th, December 3rd-4th
Hillsboro Art Walk: First Tuesday - December 2nd
More Activities, Cultural Events, and Performances
Hillsboro's Year-Round Shelter: Set to Open in Time for the Holidays
The 75-bed facility near Winco & Dairy Creek Park will provide adults experiencing homelessness with life-saving shelter, support services, and access to longer-term housing support.
There will be an Open House Shelter Tour on Thursday, November 13th from 4 to 7 pm.
Learn more
Washington County Housing Authority Opens Place-Based Housing Waitlist
The Housing Authority of Washington County opened its first-ever Place-Based Housing Waitlist on Tuesday, November 4. The waitlist will comprise both spots for the County’s Project-Based Vouchers and Public Housing units, streamlining the process for applicants. Low-income residents facing housing instability are strongly encouraged to apply by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 10, 2025.
Learn More
Preparing for Cold Weather
Visit Cold Weather Washington County to help you prepare for dealing with cold weather, including energy bill assistance and tips for heating your home efficiently.
The following organizations provide free or low-cost weatherization assistance to low-income households.
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Community Action
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The Low-Income Weatherization Program provides weatherization and energy conservation services at no cost to households at or below 200% of federal poverty income level.
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Through Energy Trust landlords can receive up to $250,000 per year in cash incentives for increasing energy efficiency and weatherization at multifamily properties they manage.
Covid-19 Vaccines Available
You can get an updated COVID-19 vaccine without a prescription in Oregon. Check with your pharmacy for availability. COVID-19 vaccines are also available at medical clinics and at your doctor's office.
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. 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.
Both tour options support lessons plans available here. Besides using the forms above, you can also schedule by contacting Visitor Services at 503-986-1388 or visitor.services@oregonlegislature.gov.
Free Food Market: November 11th
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Beaverton-Hillsboro DHS Free Food Market 5300 NE Elam Young Pkwy Hillsboro OR 97124
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Shop for free, fresh, and healthy fruits, vegetables, and pantry staples.
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This food is free, and anybody is welcome
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No identification, name, or address needed
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Please bring bags or boxes
Free Food Market: Every Second Tuesday of the Month | News & Announcements | City of Hillsboro, OR (hillsboro-oregon.gov)
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.
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
I look forward to hearing from you!
Take care!
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1430
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-280, Salem, Oregon 97301
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