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Our Role
Ahead of the 2024 General Election, Oregon Democrats held a supermajority in both chambers but faced challenges due to health issues among members and a tight budget. Moderate Democrats gained influence, sending bills back to committee and requiring Republican support, which was inconsistent. This budget crisis severely impacted safety net services, leaving key policies on transportation, gun reforms, climate programs, and Medicaid funding in uncertainty. The Republican minority was organized, effectively slowing proceedings and advancing more legislation than in previous sessions, although few bills passed. Oregon’s status as a "sanctuary state" compounded budget strains due to federal targeting and the loss of COVID relief funds. Looking forward, Interim Committee Days will occur in September and December 2025, and a Special Session may be called to address transportation issues. Tensions remain within the Democratic-controlled Executive branch. The 2025 session ended on June 27th after nearly six months, with many bills introduced but few successful, potentially overshadowing future campaign efforts. The Compact Act did not make it out of Committee. We will try again, but will wait until the Compact Act goes live nationally to help us provide data to answer some of the concerns brought up during the hearing. |
This year is a short legislative session, so we will be looking for opportunities for bills to support and continue to monitor bills that could be detrimental to OT Practice and our ability to care for clients. Additionally, we will be holding an event in September (date to be determined) to help lay the foundation for connecting with your Representatives in Salem- so be on the lookout for that and other events to come! If there are conversations you would like to begin having, be sure to reach out to the Legislative Committee at otaolegislative@gmail.com. |
The Legislative Committee invites you to help with:
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