Flush with an influx of federal aid, the 2021 Oregon Legislative Session ended with a flurry activity on Saturday, June 26.
Wildfires, social justice matters and helping the state recover from the pandemic topped the agenda for legislators.
Among the massive amounts allocated for various projects were:
• $9.3 billion to K-12 education.
• $700 million in efforts to expand affordable housing .
• Nearly $600 million for wildfire recovery and prevention.
• $350 million investment in behavioral health, with investments in workforce development, grants for innovative community investments.
• $150 million to cover overdue rent payments.
• $150 million for a Landlord Compensation Fund.
• $120 million in broadband expansion statewide.
“This session has marked a turning point for Oregon. I am pleased that today, coming out of session, we are better positioned to address the key challenges facing Oregonians: the public health and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, wildfire recovery and preparedness, and taking steps to end systemic racism and address racial disparities in Oregon,” said Gov. Kate Brown in a press release.
