Chaos on Day One of Oregon’s Special Session: House Delays as Attendance Falls Short

Oregon’s recent special legislative session aimed at improving transportation hit a major snag. Lawmakers were supposed to gather in Salem to discuss a $5.8 billion funding package for road maintenance and public transit. However, not enough members showed up to vote, causing delays and frustration.

The session was called by Governor Tina Kotek to address the urgent need for transportation funding. Without it, about 10% of the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) workforce faces layoffs. Many had expected a strong turnout, but by midday, the House was nowhere near the 40 members required for a quorum.

The delays grew increasingly absurd. Initially scheduled for 11 a.m., meetings were postponed multiple times. In a moment of public frustration, someone threw foam clown noses from the balcony, capturing the chaotic atmosphere.

Despite the turmoil in the House, the Senate did achieve quorum. However, a few House Democrats, including Rep. Andrea Valderrama, were absent due to a canceled flight. House Speaker Julie Fahey also noted that fewer Republicans attended than expected.

This surprising lack of participation gave House Minority Leader Christine Drazan an opportunity to negotiate terms on the proposed tax package. Historically, tax hikes in Oregon have faced resistance, especially during tough economic times. For context, a gas tax proposal in 2000 was rejected by nearly 90% of voters.

As the session dragged on, Democrats pushed House Bill 3991, which proposed increasing the gas tax, registration fees, and implementing new fees for electric vehicle owners. Supporters argue that these increases are crucial for maintaining roads and public transit. However, many Republicans opposed the tax hikes, saying they would only add to the burden facing everyday Oregonians.

In the midst of this debate, some local business owners voiced their concerns about rising costs. Xochitl Munoz, who runs a restaurant near the Capitol, said the ongoing financial strain feels similar to the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. “There’s no relief from the government, just more taxes,” she lamented.

Unionized ODOT workers also rallied outside the Capitol, demanding that lawmakers prioritize job security. Jason Lawrence, from the SEIU, emphasized their vital role in maintaining services across Oregon, stating, “Nothing moves in Oregon without us.”

This special session’s complications highlight the ongoing struggle within Oregon’s legislature to find a balance between funding essential services and managing taxpayer costs. With pressures mounting on both sides, the future of transportation funding remains uncertain.



Source link

Politics | Transportation