Legislative Update: March 4, 2023
We’re monitoring Oregon’s 2024 legislative session for issues of impact and interest to our members. Here’s the latest update from our legislative counsel at the Oregon State Chamber of Commerce (OSCC).
As we head into the final week of session, the outcomes for OSCC are pretty clear. There will be substantial movement on ‘reforming’ Measure 110 with HB 4002. The Governor’s housing package will also be approved (SB 1537). These will bring much needed help to communities across the state.
There will be other potential small improvements for business. Small adjustments to the Paid Family Leave program (SB 1515) will prevent some ‘benefit stacking’ with the Oregon Family Leave Act. Local tourism destinations will get some help with ‘Recreational Immunity’ on their scenic trails and parks with SB 1576.
There might also be some help around the edges on tax issues, but not the magnitude of help OSCC was seeking with a higher CAT tax exemption for small business (SB 1542). That will be a discussion for another session.
Finally, budget writers will unveil their “Christmas Tree” budget bill this week which should fund a slew of local projects throughout the state. OSCC will document some of those local projects as they become known this week. It is estimated that the legislature will put about $150 million into local projects with the end-of-session budget bill.
Upcoming Deadlines
All committees are now closed except the Rules Committees, Revenue Committees, and Ways & Means Committee.
We are expecting very fast movement of bills to finish out the session.
Although the legislature technically has until 11:59pm Sunday night to complete its work, it is more likely the legislature will adjourn just prior to the weekend.
Measure 110 Reforms – Passed!
We continue to highlight the Measure 110 reforms as this was the most pressing issue for local business communities.
HB 4002, which passed both the House and Senate last week by substantial margins, not only recriminalizes hard drugs as an ‘unclassified’ misdemeanor, but also strengthens treatment options as an alternative to jail, and expands funding for community-based treatment.
The Springfield Chamber of Commerce will be publishing the OSCC’s legislative updates weekly, or as received. Any opinions expressed or implied are those of OSCC and do not necessarily reflect those of the Springfield Chamber or its representatives. If you’d like more information, please visit our Business Advocacy page.
