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To contact me, please click here: Rep.RickLewis@oregonlegislature.gov
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Summer is finally here, and we have already had some really hot weather. This year, on July 4th, we will celebrate America’s 250th Birthday. With all of the outdoor recreation and celebrations ahead, please remember that fire season is here, and we must all work together to reduce the risk of human caused fires.
Just this week, Oregon’s Governor declared a state of emergency due to worsening wildfire conditions driven by heat, drought, low snowpack, and dry vegetation. The declaration, which remains in effect through the end of fire season, allows state and local fire agencies to quickly access additional firefighting resources, including crews, aircraft, equipment, emergency personnel, and support from the Oregon National Guard.
Since March, drought emergencies have been declared in 17 Oregon counties, and more than 400 wildfires have already burned over 8000 acres statewide this year.
State officials are urging Oregonians to take precautions, including signing up for OR-Alert emergency notifications, creating evacuation plans, and preparing emergency supply kits. Officials also noted that approximately 70% of Oregon wildfires are caused by human activity, underscoring the importance of fire prevention efforts. You can read the Governor’s executive order here and more on OregonLive here.
Additional information and resources to help keep you and your family safe and up-to-date this summer can be found on the agency webpages below:
This month’s newsletter provides an overview of my Interim Legislative committee meetings this week, events happening in and around the district, state agency news, and more.
Thank you for following along and for the honor to serve as your voice in Salem.
Sincerely,
Rick Lewis
State Representative
House District 18
Oregon’s Christmas Tree District
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
In this Issue:
View previous newsletters here.
This week, legislators gathered in Salem for the first set of three interim committee days before the 2027 Session. Two of my three committees met. I have outlined the meeting activities for each below:
The House Interim Committee On Judiciary met on June 16th to review the latest report from the Oregon Sunshine Committee, which is charged with evaluating Oregon’s public record exemptions and recommending ways to improve government transparency. Committee co-chairs Charlie Fischer and Morgan Smith reported that the Sunshine Committee has reviewed 289 of Oregon’s 642 public records exemptions and recently examined exemptions related to background checks, juvenile records, disability records and education records.
Among its recommendations are narrowing firearm background check exemptions to improve transferring while protecting confidential information, increasing public access to judicial fitness investigations when judges resign or retire, and aligning certain education records exemptions with those that apply to other public employees. The report also highlighted concerns about the growing number of public record exemptions and encouraged lawmakers to carefully evaluate any proposals creating new exemptions.
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The committee also received implementation updates on HB 2005 (2025), which made significant changes to Oregon civil commitment and aid-and-assist systems. Officials from the Oregon Judicial Department and the Oregon Health Authority outlined ongoing efforts to update court procedures, forms, training, and data collection while evaluating the laws impact on mental health treatment and competency restoration services. An article published by OPB earlier this week highlights detailed information shared during this hearing.
Lawmakers also heard from the Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) on prison operations, inmate health care, and growing challenges associated with an aging prison population. DOC officials reported that adults aged 60 and older now make up 12% of Oregon’s prison population and account for a disproportionate share of health care costs, prompting discussions about medical release options, specialized care facilities, and long term strategies to address rising correctional health care expenses.
In my view, the Legislature needs to be careful when reviewing options during the 2027 session. Early releases from prison are already occurring at a high rate and it is critical that there be a balance between early releases of those sentenced for violent person crimes and safety and security of our communities and particularly that of the victims of those crimes. Testimony was clear that as many as 75% of the aging population in custody are serving lengthy prison sentences for violent crimes against persons. Let’s not send a message that victims of those crimes don’t matter. Let’s remember that accountability for criminal actions is the reason we have prisons to begin with. During testimony on this topic I never once heard crime victims or victim’s rights mentioned. I believe it is counterproductive to use a lack of money to provide health care for the aging criminals in our prisons as the driving force and justification for early release. Prisons exist for a reason, and the primary reason is to hold criminals accountable for their crimes and to protect the public and the victims. If funding becomes the justification for some Legislators to sanction early release, then it does several things. 1) It minimizes accountability; 2) It sends a message to those committing crimes; 3) it makes the impact on true victims secondary to those who offended against them; and 4) It makes criminals appear to be the victims. Mandatory minimum sentences for violent crimes were the result of a ballot measure voted for by the people and reaffirmed several years later by an even larger majority.
Access the committee agenda and meeting materials on OLIS here.
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The House Interim Committee On Emergency Management and Veterans also met on June 16 for a series of informational presentations examining Oregon's preparedness for natural disasters, fuel supply disruptions, and emergency response challenges.
State resilience officer Joanna Papaefthimiou provided an update on the development of the Plan for Resilience Oregon (PRO), a statewide resilience strategy scheduled for release this fall. The plan has been shaped by extensive public outreach involving more than 50 organizations, 2300 survey respondents, and thousands of community touch points. Key themes emerging from the process include the need for trusted local gathering places, stronger emergency communications, support for underserved communities, resilient infrastructure investments, and better coordination among state agencies, local governments, tribes, businesses, and community organizations. The Department of Oregon Emergency Management also highlighted its ongoing emergency preparedness efforts, including statewide exercises such as the upcoming Lahar’d Times disaster response exercise.
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Committee members also received updates on Oregon's fuel security and seismic resilience efforts. The Department of Environmental quality reported progress on the fuel tank seismic stability program created by SB 1567 (2022), which requires large fuel storage facilities to assess and address earthquake vulnerabilities.
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Presenters noted that more than 90% of Oregon's fuel supply passes through the Portland-area Critical Energy Infrastructure (CEI) Hub, making it a significant vulnerability in the event of a major Cascadia subduction zone earthquake. State agencies and stakeholders emphasize the importance of reducing spill risks, strengthening fuel infrastructure, and diversifying fuel storage throughout the state to improve disaster resilience. This discussion is nothing new. Cascadia subduction earthquake discussions are nothing new. Both have been talked about for at least 35 years that I know of. Diversifying fuel storage locations is sound planning, but it is time to move beyond talk and work toward that end. The reality is we need fuel and will continue to rely on storage facilities, not only for a major earthquake, but also for a variety of other disasters. We know there is a high likelihood that the Portland storage facility sits on ground that will become liquified in a Cascadia event.
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The committee also heard proposals to strengthen seismic standards for newly constructed K-12 schools and expanding their role as emergency shelters. Supporters noted that schools designed to hire seismic standards could serve as critical community hubs during disasters, providing shelter, power, food preparation, and essential services when other facilities are unavailable.
Lastly, the Oregon National Guard briefed lawmakers on how the army's ongoing transformation initiative may affect guard operations and readiness in Oregon.
Access the committee agenda and meeting materials on OLIS here.
From the Offices of Representatives Lewis, Evans, and Trần
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 3, 2026
Press Contact:
Rep. Lewis, Rep.RickLewis@oregonlegislature.gov
Rep. Evans, Rep.PaulEvans@oregonlegislature.gov
Rep. Trần, Rep.ThuyTran@oregonlegislature.gov
Oregon’s Veteran Crisis Response Task Force Law Takes Effect June 5
SALEM, Ore. – Legislation establishing the Task Force on Responding to Veterans in Crisis (HB 4099) officially takes effect on June 5, marking a major step forward in improving crisis response resources and coordination for veterans across the state.
The bipartisan legislation creates a statewide task force charged with developing a proposal to ensure every Oregon county has access to trained veteran crisis response teams capable of responding effectively to veterans experiencing mental health or behavioral health emergencies.
“House Bill 4099 is a good start on the path to addressing this crisis that impacts so many of our military veterans. That said, it is only a start. I am pleased that the bill received strong bipartisan support in the Legislature. The task force has a substantial amount of work to do in a short period of time. I look forward to the report from the Task Force in September and fully expect that it will be the first of a series of incremental steps toward addressing this problem,” said Rep. Rick Lewis (R-Silverton).
Under the law, the task force will bring together veterans advocates, law enforcement leaders, public health officials, and community stakeholders to recommend solutions including specialized training standards, coordination protocols, and improved identification systems to better support veterans in crisis.
“Veterans have been told for years to ‘reach out for help,’ but the help isn’t there when they need it most,” said Rep. Paul Evans (D-Monmouth, Independence, West Salem and South Salem). “We’ve been patching holes in a broken system for too long. This bill is a good start because it finally acknowledges the crisis facing veterans and begins building real infrastructure to respond. But it’s time to get serious. We need more long-term investment if we want to actually prevent veterans from falling through the cracks.”
The task force will also study ways to improve coordination between veteran support teams and law enforcement agencies, helping ensure veterans receive appropriate care and intervention during emergencies.
“When veterans reach a point of crisis, every minute matters,” said Rep. Trần (D - NE Portland) said. “This effort is about making sure no veteran falls through the safety net and that families know help is available. Oregon is taking an important step toward building a system rooted in compassion, accountability, and understanding.”
The task force is required to submit recommendations to the Oregon Legislature no later than September 15, 2026.
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To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, the Oregon State Capitol will be hosting “A Passport to History and Democracy” event on Saturday, June 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Free passports, available while supplies last, will be available in the Capitol’s Galleria, and encouraging visitors to visit 13 stops inside and outside the building. The Sons of the American Revolution, Republic Chapter, will be providing costumed interpretation at the replica Liberty Bell and will be stamping passports for that location. A commemorative souvenir will be given to those that finish their passports.
The Tri-Cities Steel Band Association’s OK2Botay will be performing in the Capitol Plaza starting at 10 a.m. for a half hour to kick off the event.
The United States Postal Service (USPS) will also be on hand for a specialty, one-day-only postmark. This postmark alone is a great commemorative souvenir that is only available at this postal station inside the building during this event. A postmark can be given on any paper that has a stamp affixed. The postmark is free. The USPS will also be selling specialty products that day.
Willamette Heritage Center will be exhibiting “Caralyn B. Shelton – The Nation’s First Female Governor,” also in the Galleria. This special exhibit will be available to view through July 29.
Nothing is more American than apple pie, and the Willamette Valley Pie Co. has donated samples of their apple pie for this event. Tillamook Creamery is offering free vanilla ice cream bars during this event as well. Both items are first come, first served as quantities are limited.
This event is sponsored by the Oregon State Capitol Foundation. For more information regarding Oregon State Capitol events, contact 503-986-1388 or click on events at www.oregoncapitol.com.
It was an honor to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the new American Legion Post 89 building in Mount Angel. This exciting project marks the beginning of a new chapter for an organization that has long served as a cornerstone of the community and the steadfast advocate for our veterans.
The American Legion has a proud history of supporting those who have served our nation, fostering patriotism, mentoring youth, and strengthening communities through volunteer service. The new facility will provide post 89 with a modern, welcoming space to continue its important mission for generations to come.
As vice chair of the House Committee on Emergency Management and Veterans, and as a military veteran and American Legion member myself, I deeply appreciate the dedication of the veterans and community members who have worked tirelessly toward bringing this project to fruition. Their fundraising efforts are on-going and more money is needed to make this project a reality. Their commitment reflects the values of service, sacrifice, In communities that makes mount Angel such a special place.
Congratulations to the American Legion Post 89 on a significant milestone. I look forward to seeing the project take shape and to celebrating its completion in the future. Thank you to everyone whose vision, hard work, and generosity made this day possible.
As graduation season comes to a close, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to every graduate in House District 18 and across Oregon. Whether you are completing high school, earning a college degree, finishing a trade program, or reaching a personal educational milestone later in life, your hard work, perseverance, and dedication deserve recognition. Graduation is more than a completion of a program, it is the beginning of new opportunities and new adventures
To the families, teachers, mentors, and loved ones who supported these graduates along the way, thank you for the encouragement and guidance you provided throughout their journey.
I wish each graduate continued success as you pursue your goals and make your mark on your communities and our state. Congratulations on this remarkable achievement, and best wishes for all that lies ahead!
To honor students and families for their hard work and completion of their first year of school, Oregon now offers a $100 incentive for any new Embark 529 account opened for a graduating kindergartener.
Embark’s Kinder Grad program sets up an automatic $100 bonus when parents open a new 529 savings plan to help kickstart their student’s education savings. Funds in the account are tax-free and can help pay for college, trade school, apprenticeships, or any other furthering education needs. Families with an Embark account can earn a refundable Oregon income tax credit of up to $380 every year, and if loved ones contribute, they’ll get a tax credit too.
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Mark your calendars for some favorite summertime festivals and events. Check out the Willamette Valley Visitors Association’s webpage for these and more summer activities in our area.
St. Paul Rodeo – June 30th - July 4th
Molalla Buckaroo – July 1-4
An Old Fashion 4th of July - Newell Pioneer Village – St. Paul, OR
Marion County Fair– July 9-12
Hubbard Hop Festival and Parade – July 18
Clackamas County Fair – August 18-22
Silverton Homer Davenport Days – August 7-9
SNAP interviews resumed for all households June 1
Starting June 1, 2026, all SNAP households must complete an interview when they apply for or renew their monthly food benefits.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, some households were allowed to skip renewal interviews. This temporary flexibility ends May 31, 2026. This includes households that previously did not need an interview, like those where all adults are age 60+ or meet the SNAP definition of disability, or where no one in the household has income from work.
This change returns SNAP to standard federal rules, which require interviews for all applications and renewals. These rules help make sure benefits are accurate and reflect each household’s current situation.
What you can do now:
Make sure Oregon Dept. of Human Services (ODHS) has your current contact information-Watch for mail, email, text messages or phone calls from ODHS about your interview-Respond to messages from ODHS to avoid delays-Connect with ODHS in the way that works best for you: Use your ONE online account, call 800-699-9075 or 711 (TTY), visit a local ODHS office, or write to ODHS at ONE Customer Service Center, PO Box 14015, Salem, OR 97309
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What does ABAWD mean?
If you’re a SNAP participant, you may have heard the term “ABAWD” a lot lately. That’s because new federal SNAP work rules have changed who is considered an ABAWD – or Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents. People with ABAWD status must meet work requirements to keep receiving SNAP benefits.
But what does ABAWD actually mean?
AB: Able-Bodied – In general, this means that you are physically and mentally able to work. If you receive disability benefits or can’t work because of a physical, mental, or behavioral health reason, you may be exempt from the work rules.
A: Adult – Anyone who is aged 18 through 64. This definition has changed with the new federal rules. Previously, if you were 55 or older, you did not count as ABAWD.
WD: Without-Dependents – Anyone who does not have a child under the age of 14 on their SNAP case. This definition has also changed with the new federal rules. Previously, if you had a child under the age of 18 in your SNAP household, you did not count as ABAWD. If you care for someone over the age of 14 who cannot care for themselves, you may qualify for an exemption.
Think you may be exempt?
Reach out to the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) so they can update your case! Call 833-947-1694 or email snap.abawdteam@odhs.oregon.gov.
ODHS and the Oregon Employment Department can help SNAP recipients meet ABAWD work rules through job search, training and education services – but you must get a referral from ODHS to participate. Call 833-947-1694 or email snap.abawdteam@odhs.oregon.gov to discuss referral options.
Need more info? https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/food/Pages/snap-time-limits.aspx
Are you exempt from SNAP work rules?
Last year, a new federal law changed who does and does not have to meet work or activity rules to get SNAP food benefits. The rules apply to people who have Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) status – which is now defined as anyone who is aged 18 through 64, does not have children or dependents under the age of 14, and is physically and mentally able to work.
There are some exemptions to the rules. You can view the list of exemptions at oregon.gov/snapworkrules
Note: Previously, veterans, people who were in foster care, and people experiencing homelessness were exempt from meeting the work rules. The new federal law made it so that people in these situations are no longer exempt. If this change impacts you, reach out to us by phone or email to talk about how we may be able to help.
If you think you may qualify for one of these exemptions, it’s important to let the Dept. of Human Services (ODHS) know right away. Call 833-947-1694 or email snap.abawdteam@odhs.oregon.gov. Oregon
Even if you’re not sure, you can reach out to ODHS to talk through your situation. They partner with @oremployment to offer help so that you can meet the work rules if you need to.
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Got an ABAWD counting month notice?
Are you a SNAP participant who received an ABAWD Counting Month Notice in the mail? This notice means you may need to take action to keep your SNAP benefits. Get in touch with the Oregon Dept. of Human Services (ODHS) ABAWD Team. They can talk with you about your situation and help you understand your options.
Call: 1-833-947-1694 Email: SNAP.ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov
You may:
- Qualify for an exemption based on your situation
- Already be meeting the work rules
- Get connected to free job, training or support services
Your SNAP benefits will stop after 3 counting months. Acting early can help you keep your benefits. Find more information: oregon.gov/snapworkrules
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Lost SNAP due to work rules?
Did you lose your SNAP benefits because of new federal work or activity rules? You may be able to get them back!
You may qualify again if:
- You start meeting the work rules
- You have a reason (exemption) that means the rules don’t apply to you
- Your life situation changes (like who you live with or where you live)
Call Oregon Dept. of Human Services (ODHS) at 1-833-947-1694 or email SNAP.ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov for help figuring out your options and what to do next.
Haven’t lost your benefits yet, but think you might?
ODHS and the Oregon Employment Department can help connect you to employment and training services that could help you keep your benefits. Contact ODHS at 1-833-947-1694 or email SNAP.ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov to get referred to this program.
Find more information: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/food/pages/snap-time-limits.aspx
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Need food?
Honoring Our Past, Celebrating Our Present, and Inspiring Our Future.
As we move closer to July 4th, America's 250th Birthday, I've been thinking about the generations of Americans who have left our nation stronger than they found it.
The story of the United States is not just found in history books it is written every day by citizens who serve their communities, volunteer their time, raise families, start businesses, answer the call to military service, and work to make life better for their neighbors.
The upcoming 250th celebration gives us an opportunity to recognize that each generation plays a role in shaping the future. While we must continue to honor the achievements and sacrifices of the past, we can also look ahead and consider what kind of legacy we will leave for those who follow us.
Throughout Oregon and across the nation, communities will be celebrating this remarkable milestone - 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence is America's Semi-quincentennial. I encourage everyone to take the time this summer to visit a local museum, explore a historic site, learn about Oregon's role in our nation's history, or simply have a conversation with a veteran or longtime community member whose experiences help tell the American story.
America's 250th Birthday is more than a celebration of our past. It is a reminder that the story of our nation is still being written and each of us has a part to play in its next chapter.
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