Week Two of Session Recap
Week Two of Session is wrapping up today, and bills are already dying! On Monday, dozens more will do so as we reach the first chamber deadline, meaning that most bills have to have advanced from their policy committees in the chamber that they were introduced in (House or Senate). These weekly deadlines help us get everything wrapped up by our constitutionally mandated March 8th conclusion--and doesn't allow for any procrastination! It's worth noting that not all committees are bound by these deadlines, with the biggest exceptions being Rules, Revenue, and Ways & Means, so many bills can be "kept alive" by moving them to one of those committees.
One of the biggest stories of this week at the Capitol was the two public hearings and work session that advanced SB 1599 along a party-line vote, despite well over 4,000 pieces of written testimony submitted by Oregonians with 99% in opposition. In case you missed our action alert from earlier in the week, SB 1599 would move the transportation tax and fee hike referendum from the November 2026 general election--where it has already been certified by the Secretary of State--to the May primary election. More than 250,000 Oregonians signed petitions in record time to place this measure specifically on the November 3rd ballot, ensuring voters would have their say during the state’s highest-participation election. Those signatures were gathered with the clear understanding that the vote would occur in November's general election, and voters deserve to have that commitment honored.
We've also been monitoring HB 4015, which disconnects Oregon from several key federal tax code updates from H.R. 1 (One Big Beautiful Bill), which would result in Oregonians missing out on major tax cuts. This bill might be dead, but some provisions have been stuffed into SB 1507 with an amendment. Democrats have been arguing that closing "loopholes" will save Oregonians money, but fiscal analysis says that the bill would have a net tax increase of $300 million over the remaining time in the 2025-2027 biennium. The bill with the -7 amendment did this by eliminating the deduction for interest paid on new auto loans, for profits from the sale of corporate equity, as well as bonus depreciation for machinery and equipment purchases. Democrats did, however, reaffirm that neither tips nor overtime pay will be taxed.
We would be remiss not to note that, according to the Department of Homeland Security, reported attacks on ICE officers have increased by 1,000%--a troubling sign that heated rhetoric and misinformation may be escalating tensions and putting law enforcement at risk. At the same time, Democrats prior to session unveiled what they call a “Federal Response Agenda,” advancing bills across multiple committees aimed at expanding legal protections for illegal immigrants and limiting certain forms of state cooperation with federal enforcement. In contrast, House Republicans have centered their short-session priorities on affordability, public safety, and education by proposing to curb additional fuel cost increases, support first-time homebuyers, strengthen penalties for swatting, improve warrant compliance in domestic violence cases, and expand education opportunity.
With only 35 days to legislate this year, this contrast begs a larger question: what should be the real priorities of the Oregon Legislature right now? Engaging in federal policy battles, or focusing squarely on rising costs, public safety, and the day-to-day challenges facing Oregon families?
How about a positive note to end this newsletter introduction? A resolution I introduced this session, House Joint Memorial 201, passed the House Floor with unanimous support yesterday. While not technically a "bill" this memorial urges Congress to bring back the federal tax exemption on wildfire related settlements, which is an exemption that sun-setted at the end of last year, leaving victims with a huge tax burden. This exemption ensures that more awarded dollars actually go toward wildfire recovery in our wildfire impacted regions. Myself and several other bipartisan and bicameral lawmakers were able to get an exemption on state taxes passed in the 2024 session, but the federal companion legislation is still hugely important to survivors. To watch my speech on the floor carrying HJM 201, click here!
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HB 4153 - Allows counties to approve farm stores, instead of farm stands, as nonfarm use on lands zoned for farm use.
SB 1570 - Prevents Oregon hospitals from working with federal immigration enforcement.
HB 4079 - Directs school district boards and governing bodies of institutions of higher education to adopt policies that address how the school district or the institution of higher education will respond when a federal immigration authority enters school property or a campus.
HB 4114 - Creates a civil cause of action against federal law enforcement agents and law enforcement agents of another state in specified circumstances.
HB 4138 - Requires law enforcement agencies to enact policies concerning identifying information on law enforcement uniforms.
SB 1501 - Major Moda Center renovation, in an effort to keep Trailblazers in Oregon.
SB 1507-7 - Strips $311 million in tax relief from local businesses and working Oregonians in the rest of the 2025-27 biennium.
SB 1599 - Moves date of gas tax & fee referendum from November general election to lower turnout May primary election. Heading to Senate Floor.
HJM 201 - Urges Congress to bring back the federal tax exemption on wildfire related settlements, which is an exemption that sun-setted at the end of last year. This exemption ensures that more awarded dollars actually go toward wildfire recovery in our wildfire impacted regions. Passed the House!
This week we are proud to spotlight Tristan Mussatti, who has officially joined the Linn County Sheriff’s Office as its newest Patrol Deputy! Tristan was sworn in by Sheriff Duncan during a ceremony attended by family members and his new colleagues--an exciting milestone as he begins his service to our community.
Before entering law enforcement, Tristan worked as an HVAC Service Technician with CoolSys. We’re always so grateful and amazed by people like Tristan who step forward to serve and protect the people of House District 11 and greater Linn County, and we wish Deputy Mussatti great success as he begins this new chapter with the Linn County Sheriff’s Office!
 Do you know of anyone in House District 11 who deserves to be acknowledged? Send us your nominations at Rep.JamiCate@oregonlegislature.gov
Dolly Parton Themed Party at Jefferson Library
Mark your calendar for tomorrow, February 14th when the Jefferson Public Library will host a community celebration to “Show Dolly Some Love"! This all-ages party will highlight the Imagination Library program, which provides free monthly books to children ages 0–5. In the meantime, parents and caregivers can learn more about enrolling their child in the free book program here!
Valentine's Day Tea Party at Sweet Home Library
Join the Sweet Home Public Library for its annual Valentine’s Day Tea Party tomorrow at 1:00 p.m.! Guests are encouraged to wear their fanciest clothes, hats, or tiaras--or simply bring their fabulous selves. All ages are welcome, and tea cakes, tea sandwiches, and both hot and cold tea will be served.
LFCAIRS Bingo Night This Sunday
Happening this Sunday, February 15th at 3:00 p.m., the Lebanon Fire Community Assistance and Initial Relief Service is hosting a family-friendly afternoon of bingo at Tallman Brewing in Lebanon! Community members are invited to enjoy a few rounds of bingo, win prizes, and spend a relaxed afternoon with friends and family while supporting a great local cause.
 Oregon's Dino-Story on Display at Jefferson Library
The Jefferson Public Library has parted with the University of Oregon's Museum of Natural and Cultural History to display several fossils and other dinosaur related items at the library! Bring the family out any time from February 17th-March 7th to see some incredible history!
Preschool Storytime at Lebanon Library Next Thursday
The Lebanon Library is excited to announce that the Lebanon Police Department will be their very special guest readers at their upcoming preschool story time, beginning at 10:00 a.m.! For questions, call the library at 541-258-4926
 Boys & Girls Club Teen Night Out Next Thursday
The Sweet Home Boys & girls Club of the Greater Santiam is proud to present next Thursday's Teen Night Out event. 7th and 8th graders can enjoy free pizza, Nintendo battles, pool, board games, and much more! Come check out the party between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m.!
 
Congressional Art Competition Now Open!
Congresswoman Bynum is inviting students from across the district to take part in the upcoming Congressional Art Competition--a unique opportunity for young artists to showcase their creativity and compete for a prestigious award! This annual competition celebrates student talent from communities throughout the district.
Students and families can learn more about how to participate at:
https://bynum.house.gov/services/art-competition
(An application form will be posted there soon.)
The competition is facilitated by the Congressional Institute, and more information about the program’s history can be found at:
https://www.congressionalinstitute.org/congressional-art-competition/
What a week! From deadlines, meetings, writing testimony, trying to save bills, and sending lots of mail (the latter will happen as soon as I click send on this newsletter!), it's been a quintessentially exciting week during a fast-paced 35 day "short" session. The office highlight had to be Rep. Cate carrying HJM 201 on the Floor, which could be her final ever bill carry on the House Floor, though it's technically a resolution, not a "bill". We're hoping that's not the case, though! HB 4137, our vehicle transfer bill, is still alive at the time of writing with amendments, and we hope to share positive news on that next week.
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Besides all of the new excitement, I wanted to remind everyone that last year Rep. Cate came up with two creative ideas to revamp our office space and create a more engaging space for kids (and some adults!) visiting the Capitol now that construction is winding down. It's been a year since we've talked about it, so I'm bringing it up again! Firstly, a bipartisan, bicameral group of Legislators assisted in putting together a Capitol Quest scavenger hunt. This is an educational activity for Little Pioneers visiting their Capitol, where they will have a chance to visit different portions of the building, all while learning about Oregon's history and government. If you plan on bringing any kids for a visit this session or beyond, please feel free to swing by our office and check it out. Prizes are given to completed and returned quests!
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To add even more “fun” for their visits, we also have a little free library for kids to discover as they’re touring our halls. The Sweet Home Public Library and Friends of the Library--along with others--have generously donated several large boxes of children’s books to stock it, and the reception from visitors has been overwhelmingly positive over the past year! We even got it registered on the Little Free Library map in hopes of increasing awareness. Each book comes with a special stamp and a note of encouragement from a sitting Representative or Senator, so come grab yours today!
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Thousands submit testimony against moving vote on Oregon gas tax
Statesman Journal
Thousands testified in writing and in person for a Feb. 9 public hearing on a bill that would move a referendum vote on increased transportation taxes and fees from the November ballot to the May primary. No Tax Oregon, the group leading the referendum effort, said more than 250,000 people signed on in favor of allowing Oregonians to vote on cost increases in the 2025 transportation package.
Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek among most unpopular governors. See ranking
Statesman Journal
Only five U.S. governors are more unpopular than Gov. Tina Kotek, according to new polling from Morning Consult. Morning Consult's survey results from October to December 2025 say 48% of Oregonians approve of Kotek's performance, while 42% disapprove. Another 10% of respondents reportedly didn't know or didn't have an opinion.
Oregon’s unemployed outnumber job openings by 2 to 1
The Oregonian/OregonLive
Oregon employers had just 46,000 job openings last fall, according to new state figures, the fewest since the pandemic. At the same time, Oregon unemployment has risen to its highest level since the pandemic — 5.2%. The result is that Oregon now has 2.4 unemployed people for each vacant job, according to Anna Johnson of the Oregon Employment Department.
Advocacy groups halt effort to enshrine abortion, transgender health care rights in Oregon Constitution
The Oregonian/OregonLive
Advocacy groups that had aimed to enshrine the rights to abortion, transgender health care and same-gender marriage in the Oregon Constitution have dropped their effort to get a measure on the November ballot. The decision comes more than a year and a half after the Equal Rights for All campaign, led by Basic Rights Oregon, the American Civil Liberties Union of Oregon and Planned Parenthood Advocates, announced its widely publicized plans to pursue the ballot measure.
Oregon Democrats push plan to renovate Moda Center, woo new Blazers owner
OPB
Oregon’s top Democrats have unveiled their opening salvo to renovate the Moda Center in order to keep the Portland Trail Blazers in the state for decades to come. A bill being introduced in the state Senate on Monday could siphon away income taxes paid by the Blazers and any other employers in Portland’s Rose Quarter.
Board and Committee Vacancies in Sweet Home
Looking for a way to get more involved in your community? The City of Sweet Home currently has vacancies on several City boards and committees--and applications are always open. Serving on a committee is a great opportunity to lend your voice, share your expertise, and help shape local decisions that impact Sweet Home’s future.
Applications are kept on file for two years, so even if a position isn’t immediately available, you can still apply and be considered when a vacancy arises. Learn more about each board and submit your application online at:
https://www.sweethomeor.gov/bc/page/boardcommitteecommission-application
Serve on Brownsville’s Budget Committee
Are you interested in having a direct voice in how Brownsville’s tax dollars are spent? The City of Brownsville is seeking one resident to fill an open position on its Budget Committee, a key advisory body that works alongside the City Council to review and recommend the City’s annual budget!
The committee consists of seven City Council members and seven citizen representatives, with members serving three-year terms. Budget deliberations for the 2026–27 fiscal year begin April 30, 2026, with meetings typically held on Thursday evenings at 7:00 p.m. (often completed in just one evening). Applications are due by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, February 20th. To apply, email finance@ci.brownsville.or.us or pick up an application at City Hall. Questions can be directed to Tammi Morrow at 541-466-5880.
Session is Underway: 5 days down, 30 to go!
Short Session Starts Monday!
Gearing Up for Session!
Kicking Off the New Year!
Gas Tax & Registration Hikes Put on Hold
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