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January 2026 Newsletter
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Happy New Year! We have wrapped up January Legislative Days and are making final preparations for the short session.
January Legislative Days Recap
House Committee on Economic Development, Small Business and Trade
I am excited to join this committee and contribute to its work to foster economic growth and job creation in Oregon. We received a briefing on Governor Kotek's Prosperity Roadmap. This multi-faceted initiative would speed up the permitting process, expand the “enterprise zone” program to encourage job creation, and invest $40 million in industrial land site readiness to make more land available for development.
House Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection
We hosted three informational hearings.
High Interest Consumer Loans
We heard a presentation from the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon Consumer Justice, and the Center for Responsible Lending on predatory lending practices in Oregon. A handful of online, out-of-state lenders are using a loophole in federal law to get around Oregon's 36% interest rate cap on consumer loans. Using this loophole, they are charging Oregonians interest rates of up to 200%.
Insurance Claim Practices
We also received testimony from the Consumer Federation of America that insurance companies are making above-average profits in Oregon and paying out claims at below-average rates. This was followed by testimony from a former insurance lawyer who explained that insurance companies and their claims adjusters are incentivized to pay as little as possible while holding onto customers’ money as long as they can.
Debt Resolution Services
We learned about debt resolution companies that can help certain consumers avoid bankruptcy.
Community Meetings
Portland Community College Students
I met with a great group of PCC students who shared their interest in the legislative process and higher education policy.
Hillsboro Mayor Beach Pace
I also met with Hillsboro Mayor Beach Pace to discuss how we can work together to bring family-wage jobs to our community.
Upcoming Legislative Dates
2026 Session Begins!
The 2026 legislative session begins on February 02. You can watch hearings and work sessions as well as track bills through the Oregon Legislative Information System (OLIS) website.
Upcoming Town Hall
Town Hall with Attorney General Rayfield - New Date & Location
Join me, Attorney General Dan Rayfield, Senator Janeen Sollman, Representative Susan McLain, for an Oregon Priorities Town Hall. As we work to keep communities safe, protect consumers, seniors, and working families, and defend Oregonians' values, we want to hear what’s most important to you and your families.
Date: January 30th, 2026
Time: 6:30-8:30pm
Location: Pacific University Forest Grove Campus, Taylor-Meade Performing Arts Center, McCready Hall (2043 College Way, Forest Grove, OR 97116)
RSVP at: http://bit.ly/Jan30ForestGrove
The event is part of a statewide Oregon Priorities Town Hall series with AG Rayfield focused on hearing directly from Oregonians, in order to shape legal strategies that best protect the state’s interests. We hope to see you there!
Immigration Resources
We continue to face unprecedented attacks on our vulnerable communities. Below, you'll find resources and recommendations for legal aide, and how to report injustice.
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
Reporting ICE Activity in Hillsboro
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.
Honoring MLK Day
On January 19th, we honor the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. This day invites reflection on our nation’s progress toward civil rights and reminds us of the continued work needed to advance racial equality.
Notable Press Clippings
Consumer Protection
Division of Financial Regulation : New consumer protection laws go into effect Jan. 1, 2026 : 2025 News Releases : State of Oregon
Labor & Workforce Development
Oregon, Washington report mixed job results as unemployment rises in both states
Feds warn Oregon, other states, on paying unemployment benefits to striking workers
Economic Development
Oregon legislators prepare for 2026 short session with budget focus
How 2 bills aim to address Oregon's recreation 'affordability crisis'
Editorial: Make 2026 the year of Oregon’s comeback
Education
Proposal could change how Oregon schools respond if ICE agents show up
Other
Oregon Democrats unveil bills targeting federal policies in 2026 session
Immigration top of mind for Oregon Democrats ahead of 2026 legislative session • Oregon Capital Chronicle
Oregon lawmakers charge forward with disputed penalties for federal agent masking • Oregon Capital Chronicle
Oregon not required to give feds voter data, judge rules • Oregon Capital Chronicle
More Activities, Cultural Events, and Performances
Family Peace Center Opens Jan. 20th
Since opening in 2018, the Family Justice Center has served as a collaborative, co-located hub for survivor services, supporting more than 30,000 survivors and their families through partnership and coordination.
We are now transitioning to the Family Peace Center, a new, expanded, first-of-its-kind facility designed to further strengthen survivor access to comprehensive, coordinated services.
- The Family Peace Center will open for services on January 20, 2026.
- During the transition period, our phone number will remain available 24/7, allowing survivors to connect directly with partner agencies’ crisis lines and supports. 503-430-8300
- Survivors can continue to access immediate help through partner crisis lines without interruption.
The Family Peace Center will bring together 22 partner agencies under one roof, building on everything learned through the Family Justice Center model and deepening our collective commitment to survivor safety, healing, and hope.
Washington County Park Reservations Open for 2026
Reservations are available for numerous park amenities. Book one of our outdoor picnic pavilions for an intimate gathering or retreat at the lake. Rent kayaks and SUP boards for a fun day on the water. Or hold an event in our rental hall at Metzger Park. We have many options to enjoy our parks and recreate with groups of various sizes. Make a reservation today by visiting WashCoParks.org/reservations.
Enter the 2026 Oregon Civics Bee by Feb. 3!
This year, the United States will celebrate its 250th birthday. Oregon middle-schoolers have a unique way to celebrate. All 6th, 7th and 8th graders are invited to participate in the third annual Oregon Civics Bee, which will culminate June 12, 2026, in a quiz-style competition held in the House Chamber of the Oregon State Capitol. The winner will be invited to participate in the National Civics Bee® in Washington, D.C.
To participate, students must submit a short, four-paragraph essay identifying a community problem and proposing a solution. A panel of judges will select finalists to participate in regional competitions, and top performers in regional bees will be invited to participate in the Oregon Civics Bee. Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read will emcee. The top three finishers in the Oregon Civics Bee will receive cash prizes, including $1,000 for the winner.
To learn more about the contest – including application and essay guidance and a toolkit for teachers – please visit the Oregon Civics Bee website here.
The essay submission deadline is midnight on Feb. 3.
Apply Now at: National Civics Bee Application Portal
House Honorary Page Program
The 2026 House Honorary Page Program application is now open for scheduling! The program is a unique opportunity for young minds to engage directly with the legislative process and gain invaluable experience at the Oregon State Capitol.
The program is a one-day program, from 9:00am – 3:00pm. Transportation and lunch is not provided. The program is open to students aged 13-17 and runs Monday – Thursday from February 9 – February 26.
Interested students may fill out an application here: https://forms.office.com/g/H6zVQBHS50
Preparing for Winter Weather
As we move into the new year, winter weather can continue to affect travel, utilities and daily routines. Cold temperatures, icy roads, and changing conditions are common at this time of the year, making it important to take safety precautions. Planning ahead, staying informed about weather forecasts and checking on friends, family, and neighbors can help reduce risks and make the winter season safer for everyone.
Stay safe this winter by dressing in warm layers, preparing your car and home for power outages, and staying informed about local weather conditions. Avoid overexertion when spending time outside, and watch for signs of frostbite or hyperthermia, such as numbness or shivering. Get more safety tips at Ready.gov.
Visit Cold Weather Washington County to help you prepare for dealing with winter storms, preparing for power outages, and finding energy bill assistance and tips for heating your home efficiently. Find additional weather-related resources below:
Weatherization
Ensure your home is staying warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Weatherizing your home involves finding areas where warm or cool air may be lost, like windows, doors, and vents, and improving them. The following organizations provide free or low-cost weatherization assistance to low-income households.
- Community Action
- 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.
- 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.
Fire Safety
With below freezing overnight temperatures and recent home fires related to heating, the Oregon State Fire Marshal would like to remind Oregonians about the importance of fire safety. Since January 1, the agency has investigated 10 home fires across the state from various causes.
The Oregon State Fire Marshal offers these tips:
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Keep things that burn, like paper, curtains, bedding, or furniture, at least three feet away from all heating equipment, including fireplaces, wood stoves, and pellet stoves.
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Always plug space and portable heaters directly into a wall outlet and never into an extension cord or power strip.
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Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
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Keep space heaters out of the way of foot traffic. Never block an exit.
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Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
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Test smoke alarms at least once a month.
For more home heating safety tips, visit the OSFM’s website.
Free Food Market: February 10th
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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.
English: needfood.oregon.gov
Spanish: alimentos.oregon.gov
Small Business Resources
The Economic Development Resource Webpage provides Washington County small businesses with access to a variety of resources through the new small business resource directory and includes various opportunities ranging from workforce development to government contracting.
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Small Business Resource Directory: Resources range from technical assistance services, help with access to business capital, networking opportunities and legal services. They include the local area and culturally specific chambers of commerce, community-based organizations and trade associations.
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Workforce Development Resources: Resources for job seekers, employers and community partners navigating their workforce development needs.
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City Resources and Government Contracting: Resources for those who are interested in or currently contracting with local, regional, or federal government agencies.
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!
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1430
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-280, Salem, Oregon 97301
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