OREGON CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION URGES PRESIDENT TO APPROVE FEDERAL DISASTER RELIEF FOR WILDFIRE RECOVERY

This week, I joined my colleagues in the Oregon congressional delegation in urging President Biden to approve a major disaster declaration in response to record-setting wildfires that burned about three times the average acreage this year.

As we wrote in our letter, the 2024 wildfire season has been one of the most devastating and costly fire seasons on record. Over 1.9 million acres burned, making it the largest wildfire season by acreage in Oregon’s history. For context, the state’s 10-year average acres burned is 640,000 acres.

The estimated damages and cost to public infrastructure exceeds $650 million, and this figure does not account for the long-term loss in revenue local businesses will experience as a result of these fires.

Oregonians now require federal support and assistance to navigate the aftermath of this unprecedented fire season. Read our full letter by clicking here or below:

VISITING TRANSITIONAL HOUSING PROJECTS IN LEBANON

I recently headed down to Lebanon to visit with City Councilor KJ Ullfers and see the progress Crossroads Communities has made on their transitional housing units. In Congress, I’m proud to lead bipartisan legislation like the Transitional Housing Protection for the Homeless Act, which would ensure more people experiencing homelessness can access the resources they need to get back on their feet.

We also stopped by a new facility they hope to have up and running in December, which will have 15 beds. Nine beds will be used for individuals who have completed treatment programs to help them find jobs and stay sober, while the remaining six beds will provide a place to stay for seven to ten days while those in need search for a treatment program.

Their model has been so successful that OHA has even asked them to help train other communities. Their work is truly impressive, and I appreciate their tireless dedication to serving the community and helping those in need!

SPEAKING WITH LOCAL LEADERS AT THE LEBANON JUSTICE CENTER

I stopped by the Lebanon Justice Center to meet with Police Chief Stevenson, Captain Hyde, Mayor Jackola, and Lebanon city councilors to discuss potential funding opportunities for their jail, which has been closed for two years due to a lack of funding and staffing challenges. We had a great conversation about options for getting it back up and running, and I will do everything I can to support them with the resources they need at the federal level.

To wrap up, I also met with police officers and learned more about the impact Measure 110 had on our smaller communities, including in Lebanon. With every officer I have talked to across the 5th District, I’ve heard the same story – they are frustrated that Measure 110 hindered their efforts to hold criminals accountable and resulted in so many unnecessary deaths in their communities.

I’ll keep working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to address the fentanyl crisis, and I’m proud to have passed legislation like the FEND Off Fentanyl Act to support law enforcement efforts to combat drug trafficking.

MY LATEST COLUMN: CONGRESS COMES TO REDMOND!

I was honored to host several of my colleagues in Redmond earlier this month for a Natural Resources Committee field hearing! Protecting our water supply is critical to our environment and quality of life, and it must continue to be a top priority.

In my latest column, I talk more about what was discussed during our hearing, including the importance of meeting increased demand pressure on the region’s water supply.

Read more ⬇️

100 PERCENT VOTING RECORD IN SUPPORT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT

Our law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe. In Congress, I’ve backed legislation to ensure these brave men and women have the tools they need to combat crime in our communities. I’ll always stand with law enforcement and am proud to have a 100 percent voting record from the National Association of Police Organizations!

RECOGNIZED AS A RETAIL CRIME FIGHTER BY THE NATIONAL RETAIL FEDERATION

I’m proud to be recognized by the National Retail Federation as a Retail Crime Fighter!

As retail crime continues to force Oregon businesses to close their doors, I'm proud to support bipartisan legislation like the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act that would ensure law enforcement officers have the resources they need to combat these crimes.

SUNDAY SCENERY

For this weekend’s Sunday Scenery, take a look at this beautiful view of Horsetail Falls, submitted by Erin from Clackamas!

Want your picture to be featured here and on my social media? Submit your favorite Oregon scenery snapshot here: chavez-deremer.house.gov/sunday-scenery

ONE MORE THING – FEEL GOOD FRIDAY!

🏴‍☠️🎃👻 For this week’s special Halloween-themed Feel Good Friday, we’re in Bend where Jim Preston has turned his front yard into an “Pirates of the Caribbean” display!

With animatronics, music, and a giant pirate ship, this display has left neighbors in awe.

Thanks to Central Oregon Daily for highlighting this story, and shout out to Jim for your commitment to this amazing display!

Thank you for reading my weekly newsletter. It's an honor to be your voice in the U.S. House of Representatives. Your thoughts, concerns, and comments are very important to me. Always feel free to get in touch by calling (202) 225-5711 or by visiting my website at chavez-deremer.house.gov.

Sincerely,