Springfield Chamber Supports Oregon Jobs Act (SB 1586)

At a time when other states are aggressively competing for advanced manufacturing and technology projects, Senate Bill 1586, known as the Oregon JOBS Act, would take practical steps to enhance Oregon’s economic competitiveness and long-term growth. The bill would strengthen Oregon’s ability to compete for capital-intensive investment by modernizing research and development incentives, supporting industrial reinvestment in machinery and equipment, and improving permitting transparency and timelines.

The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce has submitted testimony in support of SB 1586, citing the importance of policies that influence where companies choose to build, expand, and invest. Targeted, performance-oriented tools that support industrial growth are directly tied to job creation, supply chain activity, and expanded local tax bases, particularly in regions like Eugene and Springfield.

“Lane County is home to world-class traded-sector industries actively investing in advanced technologies. Policies that strengthen Oregon’s competitiveness for research, manufacturing, and large-scale industrial investment directly impact real expansion decisions happening in our region today.”

– Vonnie Mikkelsen, President and CEO, Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce

A 2025 report commissioned by Business Oregon highlighted a concerning trend: segments of Oregon’s traded-sector economy are directing expansion investments outside the state. SB 1586 aims to strengthen the policy framework needed to support reinvestment and growth here at home.

While portions of the bill address land and site readiness in the Portland metropolitan area, large-scale industrial investments generate ripple effects statewide through workforce demand, research collaboration, and supply chain growth. For communities in Lane County, those statewide investments translate into local opportunity.

Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce Business Advocacy
The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce is a trusted convener and provider of business resources. They recognize the systemic interdependencies of a healthy economy and provide an ear and a voice for local business at the confluence of government, commerce, and community. They advocate for business by increasing visibility, dialogue, and representation at local, state, and federal policy circles around issues of impact and interest to their members. Learn more about the Chamber’s Business Advocacy work.