Issues

Archives: 2007

2008 Legislative Session Accomplishments
On issues that matter to Oregonians

From protecting families facing foreclosure to helping coastal residents recover from recent floods, the February session of the Oregon Legislature produced real results for the people of the Central Oregon Coast.  Here are some of the accomplishments:

Improving Long-Term Care for Seniors

• SB 1061 requires development of a comprehensive plan for long term senior care.
• $12.2 million was allocated to improve access to adult foster home care, assisted living centers, relative care, and in-home care, which includes Oregon Project Independence.

Protecting Our Children

• HB 3631 requires retailers to remove unsafe and recalled toys from their shelves.
• SB 5556 allocates $500,000 for test projects to expand access to health care for children and $7.3 million for 200+ case managers and assistants to protect foster children.
• SB 1066 directs $350,000 from the State School Fund to improving Talented & Gifted Education.

Helping Families Facing Foreclosure

• HB 3630 ends “mortgage rescue” scams and improves notification for people facing foreclosure.
• SB 1064 restricts mortgage loan originators and requires mortgage bankers/brokers to file reports.

Aiding Victims of Disasters

• HB 3605 gives the Governor authority to prevent cancellation of policies by insurance companies following a natural disaster.
• HB 3606 allows the state to waive a one-week waiting period to provide unemployment benefits to people who lost their jobs due to natural disasters.
• Directs a budget allocation of $500,000 to help local governments with disaster loans.

Improving Public Safety

• Provided funding for 24/7 Oregon State Trooper coverage on major Oregon highways.
• SB 1087 increases penalties for repeat property offenders and drug crimes, increasing access to drug and alcohol treatment to reduce future crime.

Smart Investments For Business, Housing, and Education

• HB 3619 increases the total amount of renewable energy tax credits from $20 million to $40 million, and targets $6 million to increase Oregon’s investment in affordable housing.

Help For Fishers and Family Farmers

• HB 3618 provides an inheritance tax credit on small family farms, fisheries, and woodlots.
• SB 1069 creates statewide water storage projects under the Agriculture and Community Water Act.

Improving Government Accountability

• SB 1099 establishes the Committee on Performance Excellence to improve state agency performance.