Governor Tina Kotek’s Priority on Housing
Democratic Governor Tina Kotek is calling on lawmakers to prioritize addressing Oregon’s housing crisis. Kotek emphasized the need to improve housing production in the state as the ultimate solution to the ongoing homelessness issue. To tackle this, Kotek has introduced a comprehensive housing measure that includes changes to Oregon’s land-use law, allowing for the construction of more homes. The proposed measure would grant cities a one-time exemption to the growth boundaries, enabling the addition of new land for housing. It would also require 30% of new units in expansion areas to be affordable housing.
Efforts to Combat Drug Decriminalization Challenges
One of the more contentious debates this legislative session revolves around Oregon’s first-in-the-nation drug decriminalization law. In response to increasing public and political pressure, Democrats have introduced a bill aimed at amending the law. The proposed changes would make the possession of small amounts of drugs a low-level misdemeanor once again, allowing police to confiscate drugs and crack down on public use. Measure 110, approved by voters in 2020, decriminalized “personal use” amounts of illicit drugs and redirected cannabis tax revenue toward drug addiction treatment. Republicans, however, argue that the proposed amendments do not go far enough and are pushing for higher-level misdemeanor charges and mandatory treatment for “personal use” possession.
Other Priorities and Legislative Strategies
Governor Kotek also highlighted the importance of expanding and increasing funding for summer learning programs to help students overcome learning losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, efforts to prevent future legislative breakdowns have been made. House leaders from both parties are focused on building relationships and adopting a “no surprises approach” to improve communication and avoid a repeat of last year’s Republican walkout in the Senate.
Constitutional Amendment to Prevent Walkouts
To prevent future walkouts, Democrats have introduced a joint resolution requiring a majority of lawmakers to be present for a quorum, instead of the current two-thirds requirement. The aim is to ensure that the necessary number of lawmakers is present to conduct legislative business. If passed, the proposed constitutional amendment would be put to a vote by the people.
Governor Kotek’s Call for Focus
Governor Kotek is confident that policy differences will not derail the legislative session. She urged lawmakers to stick to the basics and focus on addressing the housing crisis and improving behavioral health, as well as summer learning programs. With a clear agenda and ongoing communication with Republican leaders, Kotek believes that progress can be made for the benefit of all Oregonians.