Oregon’s 83rd Legislative Session Kicks Off with Focus on Housing, Education, and Transportation

The first day of Oregon’s 83rd state legislature kicked off with lawmakers setting their priorities for the session. A total of 2,300 bills have been introduced, with many more expected.

The primary focus of the legislature is addressing housing and homelessness, with Governor Tina Kotek emphasizing the importance of increasing affordable housing.

Other major agenda items include funding for education, mental health services, government accountability, and a $5 billion transportation package aimed at tackling issues like potholes, congestion, and poor road conditions.

Democrats, holding a supermajority in both the House and Senate, are expected to pass revenue-raising legislation without needing Republican votes.

However, Democratic leadership has expressed a willingness to collaborate with Republicans to craft effective policies.

Committee work began on various issues such as education, climate, healthcare, and transportation, and the long legislative session will continue through June 30.

This session also sees 19 new legislators, bringing fresh perspectives to the state’s political landscape.

 

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