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To contact me, please click here: Rep.RickLewis@oregonlegislature.gov
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Public service has been a meaningful part of my life. My journey began in the military, where I learned the values of duty, teamwork, and service to something greater than myself. Those experiences helped shape my approach to leadership and continued through local government and now in the Oregon Legislature.
With the primary election behind us and Memorial Day just around the corner, I am reflecting on the importance of public service and on those who are willing to step forward and serve our communities and our country.
I want to express my sincere appreciation to every individual who chose to participate in this year’s election process as a candidate. Running for office takes commitment, sacrifice, and a genuine desire to make a positive difference, and I respect everyone who was willing to answer that call. Our communities are stronger when people are willing to engage, contribute ideas, and work towards a brighter future for Oregon.
I am also grateful for the men and women serving our country in uniform. On Monday, I encourage you to join me in attending the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs statewide Memorial Day event in Salem, to remember and honor our fallen heroes to ensure they are never forgotten. For those unable to attend in person, the ceremony will also be livestreamed on ODVA’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/odvavet. Click here for more information.
This newsletter features what’s going on in your Capitol, touches on the recent Economic and Revenue forecast, and provides active links to review the 2026 Short Session. It also highlights some of the events I have attended and provides information and resources from state agencies related to wildfire season preparedness.
Thank you for following along… Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office if I can help with issues involving state government or the legislative process.
Wishing you a blessed and safe Memorial Day weekend.
Sincerely,
 Rick Lewis
State Representative
House District 18
Oregon’s Christmas Tree District
In this Issue:
View previous newsletters here.
The Oregon Office of Economic Analysis’ May 20th second-quarter (Q2) Economic and Revenue Forecast shows the state economy is slowing as families and businesses continue to feel pressure from higher energy costs, inflation, and economic uncertainty. State economists report weaker job growth, slower wage Increases, and growing caution among employers despite earlier expectations that the economy would strengthen in 2026.
While Oregon is not currently projected to enter a recession, the forecast makes clear that rising costs and global instability are taking a toll on economic confidence and growth across the state.
The forecast also highlights the importance of responsible budgeting and protecting taxpayer dollars. While general fund revenues are projected to increase by $345 million this biennium, much of that growth comes from temporary tax law changes and timing shifts rather than strong long-term economic expansion. At the same time, the legislature increased spending by nearly $200 million, underscoring the need for fiscal discipline as economic growth slows.
With this forecast, I continue to emphasize the importance of maintaining healthy reserves, supporting job creators, and focusing on policies that help lower the cost for working families rather than expanding government and spending during uncertain economic times.
Below are links to the full forecast, summary, and presentation slides.
On June 15-17, Legislators will return for the first of three interim legislative committee days to take place before the 2027 Session.
I continue to serve on the, House Interim Committee On Emergency Management and Veterans - Vice-Chair, Joint Interim Committee On Ways and Means Subcommittee On Public Safety, and the House Interim Committee On Judiciary.
Interim committee days are the times between regular legislative session when lawmakers continue the work of governing, even though we are not in formal session at the Capitol.
House and Senate committees meet to review ongoing issues, hear updates from state agencies, and examine how recently passed laws are working in practice. It is also when we dig into emerging policy topics before they ever reach the floor for a vote.
These meetings can include public hearings, expert testimony, and detailed discussions on everything from transportation and housing to veteran services, education, and public safety. They allow legislators to do deeper policy work without the time pressures of the session timelines.
Just as importantly, interim days keep us connected to the communities we represent. Legislators use this time to meet with constituents, local leaders, and stakeholders to better understand what is working and what needs attention before the next session convenes.
While the pace is different than session, the work is continuous - and is often where some of the most important groundwork for future legislation gets done.
You can find committee agendas and follow the interim legislative days on OLIS here, or click on the committee links above to follow my committee assignments and listen in and learn what's happening at your Capitol.
In late March, the Legislative Policy and Research Office (LPRO) released their 2026 Legislative Summary Reports and Dashboard. I am please to share this information and the links below:
2026 Legislative Summary Reports
These reports summarize measures that received public hearings in policy committees during the 2026 session and are organized by policy areas. The reports highlight the enactment status of the measures and provide brief descriptions and links to the Oregon Legislative Information System (OLIS).
To view all the policy areas combined in a single PDF, please see the 2026 Legislative Summary Report: All Policy Areas. Click the hyperlinks below to access PDFs for specific policy areas.
Summary of Legislation Dashboard
LPRO’s interactive Summary of Legislation Dashboard offers an at-a-glance view of the policy measures. You can use the dashboard to explore measures by policy areas and subtopics, view them by their chamber of origin, and find out if they were enacted. You can also search for measures by their measure numbers or keywords. Give it a try!
Since the close of the 2026 Short Session in March, the Capitol has been a bit quieter, however, your newly renovated Capitol is fully open to the public for visits and tours.
The weather has been fabulous! Come climb the 121 steps to the observation deck and stand in the shadow of the Gold Pioneer to get a 360 degree view of the Capitol grounds, Salem, the Willamette Valley, and beyond.
The Capitol Store and the Capitol Café are also fun to visit while you’re here!
Click here to plan your next visit to the Capitol.
 Gifts and Souvenirs
The Capitol Store is a perfect place to find unique items designed exclusively for the Capitol and it features a wide variety of souvenirs.
Enjoy Breakfast or Lunch While You’re Here
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The Capitol Café
On the Concourse level,
is open from 7am to 5pm,
Monday-Friday.
Fresh breakfast, lunch, specialty coffees,
and grab-and-go options!
Make Your Order Online!
Allow 10-20 minutes before pickup.
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Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of attending the Oregon Association Annual Chiefs of Police Spring Conference in Pendleton to be honored with the association’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
I appreciated the kind words and sentiments from my colleagues and long-time friends with whom I have served in law enforcement for so many years.
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On April 19th, 2026, the dedication ceremony of the Revolutionary War memorial in Beaverton was held honoring America's first veterans. It was a solemn and meaningful occasion recognizing the men and women who fought in the Revolutionary War and helped secure the freedoms we continue to enjoy today.
This dedication is part of a broader series of events taking place throughout Oregon and across the nation to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and America's founding in 1776. As we approach America's 250th birthday, these moments of reflection remind us of the enduring importance of our nation's history and the sacrifices made to establish it.
The ceremony brought together veterans community members, historians, and local leaders to pay tribute to the continental army and militia forces who served during the nation's fight for independence. The dedication was a powerful reminder of the continuity of service and sacrifice from America's first veterans to those who serve today.
I was regrettably unable to attend. However, I am grateful for the communities across the state who have held similar events, marking this historic anniversary year that celebrates our shared heritage and the principles on which our nation was founded.
Earlier this month, I learned that I have been accepted as a member of the Sons of the American Revolution. It is a great honor, and it is a way for me to honor my ancestors who served in the Revolutionary War.
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A few weeks ago, Pat and I made a quick trip to Texas to attend our granddaughter’s graduation from the North Texas Law Enforcement Academy and her swearing-in ceremony as a police officer in a Dallas suburb. Watching her take that oath was an incredibly proud moment for our family. Her dedication, courage, and commitment to serving her community inspire us deeply, and we are profoundly grateful for her willingness to step into a profession devoted to protecting and helping others.
While we were there, we also stopped in Wichita Falls to visit the grave of my great uncle. It felt especially meaningful to honor his memory during a trip centered on service and sacrifice. Seeing the next generation continue a legacy of commitment to others made the visit even more poignant. We are proud of our granddaughter for carrying forward those same values of duty, integrity, and service that have shaped our family across generations.
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I am pleased to share the update that Marion Polk Food Share officially closed on the purchase of their new building!
I was honored to support funding for this project, and I am excited to see the expansion of this vital food resource becoming a reality for our communities.
You can read more about this project in the articles below:
Marion Polk Food Share’s Mission
“Marion Polk Food Share’s mission is to bring people together to end hunger and its root causes.
We distribute nutritious food for individuals and families to more than 70 local partners, including food pantries and meal sites, and deliver Meals on Wheels to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities. We operate an urban farm and support a network of community gardens that connect people and their food, and mobilize community members to address systemic issues that lead to hunger.
Thousands of local volunteers, advocates, donors, and clients bring our mission to life every day”.
OREGON STATE FIRE MARSHAL CALLS FOR OREGONIANS TO TAKE SIMPLE STEPS TO PREPARE FOR WILDFIRE SEASON
A few simple weekend projects within the first five feet of your home could be the difference between surviving a wildfire or suffering devastating damage. The Oregon State Fire Marshal is encouraging Oregonians to kick off Wildfire Awarenesses Month by completing one defensible space or home hardening project this week.
Research from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety shows that reducing combustible materials in the 0-5-foot zone can significantly lower the risk of a home catching fire from wind-blown embers.
Wildfire seasons are longer and more intense than ever. Oregonians can be wildfire prepared by taking projects one step at a time. These simple steps include clearing gutters, protecting vents, and removing things that can catch fire near the home.
“With the help of Bigfoot as our guide, we want you to be wildfire prepared one foot at a time,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “We’ve launched a summer campaign to show that these small steps can reduce your home's chances of loss or damage from wildfire.”
Take the first step today by:
- Removing leaves, pine needles, and other combustible material from the roof, gutters, and deck (on and under) to prevent embers from igniting the home
- Covering vents with 1/8" metal wire mesh to prevent embers from entering the home
- Removing or relocating combustible items such as furniture, cushions, trash cans, and rugs at least five feet from the house
- Choosing options like gravel or pavers instead of bark mulch within the first five feet of the house
- Keeping lawns lean, clean, and green during fire season
“Oregon communities have shown time and again that when people take action, they make a difference,” Ruiz-Temple said. “This month is about building momentum. If every household takes even one step, our statewide protection becomes stronger.”
As you clean up your yard, be mindful about disposal. Consider chipping, composting, or recycling. If burning is necessary, always follow local rules and restrictions. Debris burns that get out of control are the leading cause of human-caused wildfires in Oregon.
Oregonians ready to take the next step toward wildfire readiness can find simple checklists, free home assessment sign-up, information about local events, and more at preventwildfires.oregon.gov. More information can be found here.
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This month marks an exciting milestone in our countdown to America's 250th birthday. We are now just a little over a month away from our nation's 250th anniversary on July 4th, 2026.
For nearly two and a half centuries, the United States has stood as a beacon of liberty, self-government, opportunity, and resilience. As we approach this extraordinary anniversary, May offers an opportunity to reflect on the courage and vision of our Founding Fathers, as well as the generations of Americans who have worked to preserve the freedoms we enjoy today.
Across Oregon and throughout the nation, communities are preparing to commemorate this once-in-a-generation celebration with parades, ceremonies, educational events, and gatherings that honor our shared history and heritage.
America's story has been shaped by citizens willing to serve their communities, defend freedom, build businesses, raise families, and contribute to something greater than themselves. It is my fervent hope that the values that united our nation in 1776 - faith, perseverance, personal responsibility, and liberty – will continue to guide us into the future.
As we continue this countdown toward July 4th, 2026, I encourage everyone to take the time to reflect on the blessings of living in the United States and to participate in local events celebrating America's founding and history.
America's 250th birthday is not only a celebration of our past, but it's also a reminder of our responsibility to preserve the principles of liberty and representative government for future generations.
I look forward to continuing this countdown with communities across House District 18 and throughout Oregon as we prepare to celebrate this historic milestone together.
In the words of George Washington, “The preservation of the sacred fire of liberty, and the destiny of the Republican model of government, are justly considered as deeply, perhaps as finally staked, on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people.” It is my prayer that the great experiment that became enshrined in the birth of our nation, will endure for generations to come and that our childrens’ children will continue to hold dear the blessings of liberty secured by our forefathers.
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1418
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-385, Salem, Oregon 97301
Email: Rep.RickLewis@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/lewis
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