Photo provided by Margaret Doherty
Tigard’s State Representative, District 35 gave an overview of the 2017 long session of the House during which 860 bills were passed; 509 unanimously.
Among the issues tackled were the budget deficit, transportation, and education. HB 217 includes a new, higher license fee for hybrid and electric vehicles beginning in 2018. The increase is an example of a move away from the gas tax which is slowly becoming obsolete. Included in the new transportation bill is a sales tax on bicycles priced at $500 or more. Currently, 100% of the gas tax goes to infrastructure. Upcoming transportation projects include adding two lanes to Highway 217, replacing the Abernathy Bridge on I205, and improvements to Capitol Highway and Hall Boulevard. The House is also considering funding transportation options for rural areas.
The House passed a balanced budget that includes $19.9 billion in healthcare, including coverage for 200,000 children-in-need. Representatives approved a move away from the Reduced Lunch Program that had led to discrimination to an completely Free Lunch Program for those who qualify. Also approved was $32 million for the Veterans’ Fund and $8.2 million for kindergarten through college education.
Margaret Doherty is a graduate of PSU and LCSC, and a former teacher. She is a consultant to the Oregon Education Association, serves on the Business and Labor Committee, and is Chair of the House Education Committee.