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February 6th, 2026 Newsletter
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
We just wrapped up the first week of the legislative short session. Things are happening fast. It feels like jumping on a treadmill that is on level 10!
Town Hall Recap
Thank you to the nearly 400 people who attended our joint town hall last week. It was an emotional and difficult discussion which centered on the harm being done to our community by federal agents. I am deeply grateful to those who shared their stories. I hear you, I stand by you, and I assure you that the legislature is committed to doing everything in our power to keep you and your family safe. In this newsletter, you will find a list of bills that outline our ongoing response to the egregious conduct of ICE.
Committees
House Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection
We hosted public hearings on the following bills:
High Interest Consumer Loans/ Predatory Lending
Watch my testimony from the public hearing.
HB4116: I am bringing a bill this session to put a stop to predatory lending by out-of-state, online lenders. These companies are using a loophole in federal law to bypass our state’s interest-rate cap of 36%. They are lending to consumers at interest rates of 73% - 200%. My bill would remove the federal loophole and protect consumers.
Speculative Ticketing
HB4024 cracks down on deceptive and fraudulent sales tactics in regard to event tickets by requiring the sellers to actually possess the tickets before listing them for sale.
Insurance Company Accountability
HB4098 creates consequences for insurance company misconduct by adding them to the Unlawful Trade Practices Act (UTPA)..
Protecting Immigrant Workers
HB4150 ensures that companies doing business with the State of Oregon are not assisting federal immigration efforts that violate our state’s sanctuary laws.
House Committee on Economic Development, Small Business and Trade
We held multiple public hearings, including:
HB4061 directs the Oregon Business Development Department to work with multiple stakeholders to develop a unified trade strategy to promote our state’s economic relationships abroad.
HB4139 updates definitions for cannabinoid products.
HB4084 creates a fast-track permitting process for major projects, expand economic “enterprise zones,” and invest $40 million in industrial land site readiness to promote manufacturing.
Community Meetings
SEIU
It was great to meet with SEIU members to hear their stories and discuss how to improve the working conditions of caregivers.
Vaccine Advocacy
I enjoyed my meeting with Oregon Families for Vaccines who are fighting for public health legislation that would preserve vaccine access in our state.
Founder of "Puddletown Chess"
It was a pleasure to meet with Jesuit student Ishaan, author of "Audacity to Start", and founder of Puddletown Chess, a non-profit that has made over $80,000 in donations and serves over 1,000 students.
Bill Tracking
Don't forget to "e-subscribe" to committee updates and bills of interest.
Federal Response
The Oregon legislature has prioritized the following bills in response to chaos and harm brought about by federal actions. Below, you can learn about each bill. I encourage you to register for testimony to share your perspective (which you can do via the links to each bill below). Testimony must be received within 48 hours after the start time of the committee meeting.
House Bills
HB 4079: Safeguarding Students and Families
Directs schools to adopt policies that address how the institution will respond when a federal immigration authority enters property.
HB4111: Anti-Discrimination Protections for Immigrant Workers
Provides that evidence of a party's or a witness's immigration status is not admissible as evidence in a civil proceeding.
HB4114: Protect Your Door Act
Strengthens one's Fourth Amendment protections. If anyone enters one's home illegally, you can sue them personally for damages.
HB4117: Universal Representation & Children's Stability Fund
Appropriates moneys from the General Fund to the Oregon Department of Administrative Services for purposes of deposit in the Universal Representation Fund.
HB4138: Law Enforcement Accountability and Visibility Act (LEAVA)
Requires law enforcement agencies to enact policies concerning identifying information on law enforcement uniforms.
HB4150: Public Contracts Prohibition
Directs state agencies to require prospective contractors, subcontractors and grant recipients to attest that they do not and will not transport individuals detained by federal agencies for the purpose of deportation, except in accordance with judicial orders.
HB4143: Reciprocal Enforcement of Claims on Unpaid or Reduced State Entitlements) Act (RECOURSE)
Authorizes the Governor to direct state agencies to withhold moneys owed to the federal government if federal funds are being withheld from the state in contravention of a valid court order.
Senate Bills
SB1570: Sensitive Location Protections
Requires the Oregon Health Authority to study protections in health care facilities.
SB1581: School Meals for All
Requires school districts to offer lunch and breakfast to students at no charge, regardless of income.
SB1587: Data and Consumer Privacy Protections
Prohibits data brokers from providing data to others for purposes related to enforcement of civil law, except pursuant to a court order.
SB1587: Public Lands Promise
Prohibits public bodies from assisting the federal government with privatization of certain federally owned lands.
SB1594: Office of Immigrant and Refugee Advancement Fix
Directs the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Advancement to develop and maintain model policies, standards and procedures related to the enforcement of federal immigration laws.
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.
Small Business Stabilization Program
Hillsboro City Council approved the creation of the Small Business Stabilization Program in response to community feedback about the harmful impacts of federal immigration enforcement on local businesses in Hillsboro.
The program will help stabilize and retain small businesses in the community, especially those seeing a reduction in customer base resulting from ICE activity or experiencing economic instability.
Grants of up to $10,000 will be awarded. A total of $200,000 is available.
Eligible industries include restaurants, mobile food services, food markets, bakeries, grocery stores, and retail stores.
Applications open February 9th, here's how to get ready:
- Review program goals & requirements
- Prepare 3 years of financial reports
- Develop a plan for how the money would be used
Learn more: Small Business Stabilization Program Grants
Honoring 100 Years of Black History
This February marks 100 years of observing Black History Month. During this time, we honor the contributions Black Americans have made in shaping Oregon’s cultural and political landscape.
I encourage you to explore Black History Month 2026 – Oregon Black Pioneers to learn about a century of Black history keepers here in Oregon. Without their dedication, countless stories, experiences, and achievements might have been lost. We honor and appreciate their essential work this month and throughout the year.
Please also support Black-owned businesses this month and every month by visiting Mercatus PDX.
You can read Washington County’s full proclamation online or listen to the proclamation reading from the Board of Commissioners meeting held on January 27.
Notable Press Clippings
Consumer Protection
https://www.mycentraloregon.com/2026/02/04/new-oregon-bill-aims-to-curb-predatory-lending/
With electricity bills rising, some states consider new data center laws • Stateline
Labor & Workforce Development
Oregon expands worker rights with new laws | Oregon / Northwest | centraloregondaily.com
Economic Development
Oregon Democrats unveil plan to close Trump tax ‘loopholes’, reduce budget deficit - oregonlive.com
OR taxes: Oregon's economic forecast shows 'resilient' economy
Oregon bill seeks to temporarily fast-track siting of renewable energy projects - OPB
Bend’s Broadman pushes tax boost for families | The Bulletin
Education
Rep. Marsh sponsoring Higher Ed Study Bill - KOBI-TV NBC5 / KOTI-TV NBC2
Lawmakers take up bill to allow big changes to Oregon’s university system - OPB
Oregon bill would require school alerts if ICE agents are on campus
Other
Oregon’s 2026 legislative session: What you need to know - OPB
Oregon lawmakers introduce bill to 'ban masked law enforcement,' require visible ID | kgw.com
Oregon health care providers, lawmakers introduce bill to limit ICE access in hospitals | kgw.com
BIPOC lawmakers take aim at federal immigration agents in Oregon
Animal rights activists cheer OHSU's move to end monkey testing - Portland Business Journal
First Annual Winter Market - Saturdays, February 7th-March 21st
Entry Firefighter Recruitment Virtual Open House - February 9th
More Activities, Cultural Events, and Performances
Family Peace Center is Open!
After years of collaboration, planning, and community support, the Family Peace Center is open and serving survivors.
In just 8 days since opening, we’re already seeing the difference this space makes:
- 92 survivor walk-ins
- 171 services provided
- Services-to-survivor ratio has increased from 2.3:1 to over 3:1
Right now, the Family Peace Center is looking for volunteers to support:
- Clothing boutique organization & laundry
- Hospitality and greeting in the Survivor Community Center
- Unpacking, organizing, and general move-in support
- Ongoing beautification projects
- Events and future volunteer opportunities
If you’re interested in getting involved, email our Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator, or sign up to volunteer here
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.
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
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. Check on friends, family, neighbors and pets. 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. Your best way to connect with us is via email: Rep.NathanSosa@oregonlegislature.gov or visit our office (H-280) Monday-Thursday between 9:30am-3pm.
I look forward to hearing from you!
I'm on Instagram! Follow me: @Rep.NathanSosa
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1430
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-280, Salem, Oregon 97301
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