Strengthening Local Economies

Senator Patterson

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To contact me, please click here: Sen.DebPatterson@oregonlegislature.gov


Strengthening Local Economies

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Oregon is now in the full swing of summer. I want to thank everyone who took time on a sunny afternoon last week to come to my town hall. I shared updates from the 2026 Legislative Session and talked about the issues I am working on for next year. There was also an opportunity for community discussion, where community members shared concerns about cost-of-living and affordability. We also discussed ways to strengthen the local economy and push back on federal overreach.

town hall


War in Iran and tariffs are making it harder for families to make ends meet. That's why I pushed this year to make life more affordable for Oregon families, by cutting taxes for hundreds of thousands of Oregonians through the Earned Income Tax Credit and protecting funding for core services like education, health care, and public services. Next week, the Legislature will review the implementation of that bill (SB 1507) and other recently passed laws in committee hearings, which you can view online through the Oregon Legislative Information System.

We must ensure all Oregonians share in our state's prosperity--not just the top 1%. Together, we can build an Oregon that works for everyone.

Warm regards,
Deb


guangxi


Promoting Tourism, Trade, and Commerce

I recently had the honor of welcoming a large group of guests to the Oregon State Capitol. A visiting delegation from China's Guangxi Province visited Salem to discuss opportunities for cultural and economic exchange with Salem leaders and representatives from the Governor's Office.

Both Oregon and Guangxi are known for beautiful natural landscapes and have economies that emphasize agriculture, natural resources, tourism, and technology. I look forward to fruitful opportunities for partnerships in trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.


hot weather 2


Stay Safe in Extreme Heat

Extreme heat is a safety threat to some of the most vulnerable people in our community. But local services can give some relief to people struggling with the heat, and verified guidance can help anyone prepare for a heat wave.

  • The Oregon Health Authority wants you to know the warning signs for heat-related illness and be ready to act if you see symptoms: https://bit.ly/prevent-illness.

  • OSU Extension service has tips to get ready for extreme heat, like how to stay hydrated, prep for a power outage, and find a cooling center: https://bit.ly/heat-prep.

  • Even if you don’t need a cooling center right now, you can check the list at 211info.org/hot to find out where the cooling centers are in our community.

Capitol Phone: 503-986-1710
Capitol Address: 900 Court St NE, S-411, Salem, OR, 97301
Email: Sen.DebPatterson@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/patterson