Oregon Governor Kotek Signs 25 New Laws in Week of Legislative Action
SALEM, Ore. — In a significant legislative move, Governor Tina Kotek has signed 25 bills into law on Wednesday, bringing the week’s total to 46. The newly enacted legislation addresses a range of issues from environmental concerns to workforce data collection.
Among the key legislations, a bill mandates the Department of Education to establish an advisory committee to study special needs services for young children, with a progress report due by September 15. Another significant measure addresses data sharing between law enforcement and federal immigration authorities, allowing limited information release while prohibiting unauthorized agreements for sharing detainee information.
Environmental initiatives take center stage as well. One bill prohibits the use and disposal of firefighting foam containing PFAS compounds, known as "forever chemicals," and directs the Environmental Quality Commission to create a safe disposal program by next July. Additionally, new guidelines for dealing with abandoned or derelict vessels empower agencies to seize and manage such ships, mitigating potential environmental threats.
The week also saw amendments to improve the handling of job-protected time off, with a study mandated to assess its impact by 2026. Other legislative changes aim to enhance the effectiveness of water supply grant programs and streamline the sharing of workforce data among educational institutions.
Kotek’s legislative actions reflect her administration’s commitment to address pressing community needs, improve public safety, and promote environmental sustainability while ensuring educational and employment frameworks are strengthened.
As the Oregon Legislative Assembly continues its session, these laws mark a proactive step toward more coherent policies that aim to foster growth and safety across various sectors. Further updates on legislative actions are anticipated as this session progresses.
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