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To contact me, please click here: Rep.LucettaElmer@oregonlegislature.gov
Hello Friends and Neighbors,
I hope you have had a wonderful July, celebrating the 250th birthday of the United States of America and enjoying our beautiful Oregon summer weather. Please read on for some important legislative updates, as well as highlights from our local communities.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATES
Governor’s Prosperity Council Releases Official Recommendations
Last month, Governor Kotek’s Prosperity Council issued its official recommendations, which include relaxing Oregon’s regulatory burden, reconnecting to federal tax codes, and lowering taxes.
Experts are recommending a much-needed course correction for Oregon’s failing economy — starting with our business climate. CNBC recently updated its “America’s Top States for Business 2025” rankings. Oregon now sits at 39th overall, 41st in economy, 43rd in cost of doing business, 47th in business friendliness, and 45th in cost of living.
The lengthy report could be summarized in ten main points:
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Transform Business Oregon into the Oregon Commerce Authority
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Strengthen Oregon’s economic competitiveness with tax policies such as:
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Modernize the Research & Development Tax Credit
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Update the Estate Tax
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Reform the Corporate Activity Tax (CAT)
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Reconnect the Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS)
- Convene a nonpartisan, stakeholder-balanced, tax reform working group to develop a long-term reform proposal
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Establish enforceable statewide permitting timelines and guardrails (a “shot clock”)
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Reduce regulatory and administrative burdens by 20% by 2029
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Adopt a market-based Cap and Invest program for greenhouse gas emissions
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Establish a dedicated and recurring site readiness and infrastructure fund of $250 million per biennium
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Modernize statutes and state policies governing land intended for industrial and business growth
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Establish a Governor’s Cabinet of Economic & Talent Development
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Strategically align higher education funding with West Coast states
These recommendations are not novel: Most are Republican priorities. Oregon Republicans have been proposing similar policies for years. While I appreciate that the Governor’s Council recognized these issues, I am skeptical about how, or even if, majority party leadership will implement the recommended changes.
Another stand-alone report won’t change anything on its own, no matter how sound its findings are. There must be a collaborative, bipartisan effort between the Legislature and the Executive Branch to implement policies that produce tangible, measurable outcomes. That’s what Oregonians deserve from their government.
When we have ample evidence that our current statutes aren’t delivering for our constituents, it is our job as elected officials to change them.
If you are interested in reading the Council’s recommendations, I have attached a link to the Executive Summary here. And if you really want to get into the weeds on this, the full report is linked here.
Business Leaders Support Governor’s Prosperity Council Recommendations
In a recent Portland Business Journal op-ed, Greater Portland Inc. President and CEO Monique Claiborne praised the recommendations of the Governor’s Prosperity Council.
The council’s findings confirm what Oregon’s employers have been saying for years: if we want to grow jobs, attract investment, and keep businesses here, we must improve our regulatory climate, create a more competitive tax environment, and pursue policies that encourage economic growth rather than hinder it. The recommendations provide a roadmap for making Oregon more competitive and prosperous.
For the past five years, Monique has been charged with regional economic development in the Portland metropolitan area. She confirmed that the Council’s recommendations reflect her observations over her tenure with Greater Portland.
I found this quote from the Op-Ed particularly impactful:
“I've worked alongside business leaders, employers, economic developers, and public officials across the state. That experience has led me to an uncomfortable conclusion. The biggest barriers to Oregon's future are no longer economic. They're institutional. They're cultural. First, Oregon doesn't have a knowledge problem. It has a courage problem.”
Monique goes on to question whether the Governor will spend the political capital required to make these necessary changes for Oregon’s prosperity.
“Doing so will require taking on interests that have shaped Oregon politics for decades. It will require disappointing allies. It will require legislators to cast votes that may invite primary challengers rather than praise. That is what leadership looks like. The Prosperity Council wasn't the hard part. Governing is. If these recommendations become another well-intentioned roadmap that gathers dust, it won't be because Oregon lacked the answers. It will be because our leaders lacked the courage to choose long-term prosperity over short-term politics.”
The full article is behind a paywall, but if you have a subscription to the Portland Business Journal, I’d recommend giving it a read.
Help Create a Logo for Oregon Adoption Day!
As you may know, I passed House Bill 2019 in the 2025 legislative session commemorating August 25th as Oregon Adoption Day — a day to recognize, honor, and celebrate adoption in all its forms. An adoptee myself, I am passionately advocating to commemorate all those impacted by adoption.
To commemorate this new statewide celebration, I am honored to invite Oregonians with a personal connection to adoption to help create the official Oregon Adoption Day logo.
The contest is open to Oregon residents with a personal connection to adoption, including adoptees and adoptive parents. The winning design will be the official Oregon Adoption Day logo, helping to create a lasting symbol that celebrates adoption across our state for generations to come.
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It's been a joy to travel around the state and talk about Oregon Adoption Day. Recently, I was able to visit the McMinnville Chamber of Commerce Greeters, hosted at Ticor Title and attended by numerous business leaders, including President John Olsen. After Greeters, we heard from several community members about their adoption connections.
One of my favorite things is finding points of connectivity. I have loved seeing the logo entries and reading and hearing the adoption stories from people of all different backgrounds and experiences. I hope you'll share the following details and entry form with any Oregonian with an adoption story.
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Contest Details:
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Who May Enter: Oregon residents with a personal connection to adoption
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Entry Deadline: EXTENDED TO August 21
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Winner Announced: August 25 (Oregon Adoption Day)
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Submit Logo and Entry Forms: Rep.LucettaElmer@oregonlegislature.gov
Whether adoption is part of your own story or your family's journey, we invite you to help create a symbol that reflects the love, hope, and belonging that adoption brings to so many Oregon families.
Hop Field Day
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Did you know the Pacific Northwest—Washington, Oregon, and Idaho—produces 98% of the hops grown in the United States and nearly 40% of the world's supply?
Last month, our Communications Director, Gretchen Sims, had the opportunity to learn more about Oregon's hop industry during Hop Field Day, touring several outstanding hop operations in the Willamette Valley. It was wonderful to celebrate this year's and previous Cascade Cup Award winners and recognize the innovation and dedication that have made Oregon a leader in hop production.
1st place this year went to Smith Valley Farm in St. Paul.
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Thank you to the growers, researchers, and industry leaders whose hard work continues to strengthen one of Oregon's signature agricultural industries. Oregon's hop growers play an important role in supporting local jobs, family farms, and one of our state's most iconic industries. I'm grateful for their continued commitment to excellence and the contributions they make to communities across our region.
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Oregon Agricultural Commodity Takes Center Stage (or should I say field) in World Cup Games
This year, the United States has the honor of hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Mexico and Canada. While the US Men's Team might not have a player from the Beaver State, Oregon has been front and center at every single game. Its MVP? Grass seed.
While strict regulations have kept the exact locations under wraps, it has been confirmed that Oregon grass seed was used in 40% of the 16 World Cup Stadiums.
The Willamette Valley is known as the grass seed capital of the world. Perhaps not the first thing that comes to mind when you think of agriculture, Oregon’s grass seed industry is the state’s fourth largest agricultural commodity — bringing in a healthy $639 million in revenue.
Not only are we the world’s leading producer of cool-season forage and turf grass seeds, but Oregon dominates the United States’ commercial production of annual ryegrass, perennial ryegrass, bentgrass and fine fescue.
It's exciting to see Oregon agriculture showcased on the world stage through an event as globally recognized as the World Cup.
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Amerson Precision Sheet Metal Tour
 My Office Manager, Brayden Thayer, was recently welcomed on a tour of Amerson Precision Sheet Metal showcased a local manufacturer that has been serving the community since 1979, when it began with just one machine in Newberg.
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Today, the company employs 41 people across three shifts and manufactures custom precision sheet metal products for the telecommunications, medical, and military industries. Using advanced AMADA equipment since 1984, Amerson partners with local businesses like A-dec while also serving customers around the world.
It was impressive to learn how Amerson has grown over the past four decades. Since 1979, the company has expanded from a 6,000-square-foot shop to more than 70,000 square feet of production, assembly, and powder coating space—a reflection of its commitment to quality, innovation, and serving customers across the region.
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COMMUNITY KUDOS
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) to Host Free “Star Parties” at State Parks this Summer
OMSI and the Rose City Astronomers are planning to host stargazing events throughout the summer where attendees can view planets, stars, and the Moon — guided by star maps and volunteers — through telescopes provided by the organizers.
Events will run from 9 to 11 p.m., weather permitting, at L. L. Stub Stewart and Rooster Rock State Parks. Here is the remaining 2026 summer schedule:
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Wed, August 12 — L. L. Stub Stewart State Park (Buxton, OR), Rooster Rock State Park (Latourell, OR)
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Sat, September 12 — L. L. Stub Stewart State Park (Buxton, OR)
OMSI recommends dressing warm; packing your own chairs, blankets, food, and water; and arriving early enough to find parking. You will be required to either use a red flashlight or cover the light with red electrical tape to allow the best viewing experience of the night sky.
The event is FREE! But state parks do require a $10 parking permit if you don’t have an annual parking pass. Perhaps you can check one out from your local library…
Did You Know… It’s No Longer Just Books You Can Check Out From Your Local Library
You can now check out State Park parking passes from your local library. The process works the same way as checking out a book: you present your library card to borrow one of their State Park parking passes.
Eighty libraries across Oregon are participating, with 200 passes available, offering access to 250 State Parks with a day use fee. Check with your local library for checkout policies. If a pass isn’t returned, the borrower is charged a $60 replacement fee.
Oregon is a gorgeous state, filled with natural beauty. Take advantage of this opportunity and enjoy the great outdoors this summer!
Celebrating America's 250th
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This Independence Day, Representative Lucetta Elmer's District Outreach Coordinator, Jessica Campbell, attended the inaugural Saturday in the Park celebration with her husband and two young sons, joining hundreds of community members in celebrating America's 250th birthday at the Yamhill County Fairgrounds. Hosted by We Are Mac, the family-friendly event marked the first celebration of its kind in McMinnville.
Families enjoyed a full day of patriotic music from the Second Winds Concert Band, Little Big Band, and Second Time Refined, along with bounce houses, face painting, games, bingo, cornhole, and local food and drink vendors. Children explored hands-on activities while neighbors gathered to celebrate the freedoms that unite us.
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One of the highlights of the day was its thoughtful focus on the history and meaning of Independence Day.
Rather than simply celebrating the holiday, the program invited attendees to reflect on the principles that shaped our nation. A portrayal of Thomas Jefferson brought the Declaration of Independence to life, while Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address reminded us of the enduring ideals of liberty, equality, and national unity. A moving tribute to America's Founding Mothers recognized the often-overlooked women whose courage, sacrifice, and leadership helped shape our nation's beginning.
The celebration also honored those who have defended those freedoms throughout our nation's history.
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A thrilling F-15EX flyover, participation by the Oregon National Guard, a historic cannon display, and a moving tribute to each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces gave veterans and their families the recognition they deserve. As each military anthem was played, veterans were invited to stand and be honored for their service, creating one of the day's most memorable moments. |
Thank you to We Are Mac, the organizers, volunteers, performers, sponsors, and community partners who made this inaugural event such a tremendous success. As our nation begins celebrating America's 250th, events like this remind us of the importance of honoring our history, recognizing those who have defended our freedoms, and passing these traditions on to the next generation.
Relay for Life's Luminaria Bags
 One of the privileges of serving our community is witnessing the many ways neighbors come together to support one another through life's greatest challenges.
Hosted by NW Food & Gifts on Third Street, the evening was a beautiful reminder that no one faces cancer alone. Hundreds of luminaria bags, each decorated with names, messages, and memories, lined the streets as candles illuminated the path in honor of survivors, those currently fighting cancer, and the loved ones we remember.
The evening also featured live music by George Humlie and his band, along with a live auction supporting the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life mission. Together, these moments created an atmosphere of hope, remembrance, and community.
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 Seeing so many luminaria glowing throughout downtown McMinnville was a powerful reminder that every bag represents a story, a family, and a life that has touched our community. Thank you to the organizers, volunteers, sponsors, and everyone who participated in making this meaningful event possible. Your compassion and generosity continue to bring hope to families across Yamhill County.
Celebrating 73 Years of Yamhill Derby Days
 Communities are strengthened by traditions that bring neighbors together, and Yamhill Derby Days continues to do just that. This year marked the 73rd Annual Derby Days, with the theme "Tiger Pride," celebrating the spirit and pride of the Yamhill community. Families enjoyed a weekend of festivities, including the annual parade, the beloved Soap Box Derby, live music, local vendors, carnival attractions, great food, and activities at Beulah Park.
One of the highlights of Derby Days is the Soap Box Derby, where young racers showcase their creativity, craftsmanship, and determination as they race handcrafted cars down the hill. It's a tradition that has delighted participants and spectators alike for generations and continues to be a favorite part of the celebration.
What makes Derby Days especially unique is its rich history. The event began in 1954, when local businesses and volunteers came together to create a community celebration centered around a Soap Box Derby race. More than seventy years later, that same spirit of volunteerism and hometown pride remains at the heart of the festival, making it one of Yamhill County's longest-running and most beloved traditions.
Thank you to the Derby Days Committee, volunteers, sponsors, participants, and everyone who worked so hard to make this year's celebration a success. Events like Derby Days celebrate not only our community's history but also the neighbors and volunteers who continue to keep these traditions alive for future generations.
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Celebrating Creativity at the McMinnville Art Festival
 Downtown McMinnville came alive with creativity during the first annual McMinnville Art Festival, where Third Street was transformed into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly promenade filled with more than 50 artisan booths showcasing paintings, pottery, jewelry, woodworking, textiles, photography, and other handcrafted works. Hosted by ArtWorks, a program of the Arts Alliance of Yamhill County, the free festival was held alongside MacFresco, giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy local art, food, wine, shopping, and community all in one place.
One of the highlights of the festival was the Student Art Showcase, featuring artwork created by talented local elementary and high school students. I was especially proud to see the incredible self-portraits painted by McMinnville elementary students under the guidance of my District Outreach Coordinator, Jessica Campbell, who also serves as the Artist in Residence for McMinnville Elementary schools through a grant from the McMinnville Education Foundation. Her program encourages students to express themselves through art while building confidence and creativity, and it was wonderful to see their hard work celebrated in such a public way.
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Events like the McMinnville Art Festival remind us that the arts enrich our communities, strengthen our local economy, and provide meaningful opportunities for people of all ages to learn, create, and connect. Thank you to the Arts Alliance of Yamhill County, ArtWorks, the participating artists, volunteers, sponsors, educators, and everyone who helped make this inaugural festival such a success. I look forward to seeing this new tradition continue to grow for years to come.
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Story Night at Zenith Vineyards
 On July 30th, Story Night hosted its 24th event, bringing women together for an evening of food, wine, prizes, connectivity, and an inspirational story from Kourtney Ferrua.
As many of you know, Story Night is a nonprofit that I've had the honor of being a part of since its first year in Oregon in 2019 when I was asked to share my adoption story. I am always amazed at the beauty, diversity, and hope that comes through each story that is shared. When we take the time to listen to each others' stories, something powerful happens. We lean in. We find connection. And bridges are built.
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If you'd like to hear Kourtney's story, it will be published soon on the Story Night podcast and YouTube channel. In the meantime, ladies, save the date for the next event on October 1st at the Chehalem Cultural Center featuring Amy Widmer. For this event, Story Night will be partnering with another amazing nonprofit, With Courage, to support breast cancer warriors. Seats are limited so I encourage you to get your free ticket at storynighthope.com soon! I would love to see you there.
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Yamhill County Fair and Rodeo!
 Few traditions capture the heart of Yamhill County quite like the Yamhill County Fair & Rodeo. As Oregon's oldest fair and rodeo, it has brought families together for generations to celebrate our agricultural heritage, support local youth, and create lasting summer memories.
My District Outreach Coordinator, Jessica Campbell, enjoyed the fair with her two young sons, experiencing many of the traditions that make this event so special. From the excitement of the rodeo, demolition derby, and crowd-favorite mutton busting, to carnival rides, concerts, delicious fair food, and the many animals on display, there was something for every member of the family to enjoy. Her boys especially loved the mutton busting!
"I want to ride a sheep!" exclaimed her 5 year old.
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 One of the most meaningful parts of the fair is its continued support of our young people through 4-H and FFA.
The annual livestock auction showcases months of hard work, responsibility, and dedication by local youth while demonstrating the strong partnership between agriculture, business, and our community. These experiences help develop the next generation of leaders and keep Oregon's agricultural traditions thriving.
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The Yamhill County Fair & Rodeo is more than a summer event—it's a celebration of the people, values, and traditions that make our community such a wonderful place to call home. Thank you to the volunteers, fair board, exhibitors, sponsors, first responders, entertainers, and countless community members who work year after year to make this beloved tradition possible. Here's to another successful fair and to many more summers of making memories together.
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Wildfire Preparedness
In Oregon, peak fire season typically runs from July to September. This year, amid persistent drought conditions caused by below-average snowfall and an early melt, Oregon has already experienced an intense season that experts are comparing to the 2024 or even 2020 seasons.
As of last week, Oregon has already seen 1,300 fires this season, burning over 1 million acres, leaving 1,864 residents without power, and placing 33,296 Oregonians under some level of evacuation notice.
Approximately 12,300 firefighters have been deployed; the Coast Guard is expected to assist starting this week; and personnel from Australia and New Zealand are helping tackle fires across the state. These teams are expected to help fill middle-management gaps — helping to organize personnel and equipment deployment
Last week, we were informed that $60 million of the $80 million legislatively allocated to fire mitigation had already been spent — meaning we will likely have to tap into emergency funds as the fire season progresses.
Oregon’s Department of Forestry is projecting a long, difficult fire season ahead. Now more than ever, it's important to stay alert, stay informed, and encourage your friends, family, and neighbors to do the same.
Wildfires can happen with little warning, so preparation is key. Have an emergency plan, pack a go-bag with essential supplies, stay informed about local fire conditions, and be ready to evacuate if needed.
 At the end of July, Oregon passed a sobering milestone of over one million acres burned just this year. Now more than ever, it's important to stay alert, stay informed, and encourage your friends, family, and neighbors to do the same.
Wildfires can happen with little warning, so preparation is key. Have an emergency plan, pack a go-bag with essential supplies, stay informed about local fire conditions, and be ready to evacuate if needed.
To help you stay informed throughout the season, I've put together a list of state and national resources for tracking wildfire activity, evacuation information, and air quality.
Yours Truly,
 Representative Lucetta Elmer
House District 24
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1424
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-395, Salem, Oregon 97301
Email: Rep.LucettaElmer@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/elmer
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