Local News

Kris Strickler, director of the Oregon Department of Transportation, has announced his resignation effective at the year's end, amid significant developments including the passage of a road funding bill and the withdrawal of federal support for the Rose Quarter project, resulting in a $1.5 billion funding deficit.

In a strategic shift, 200 federalized California National Guard members stationed in Portland and 200 Texas National Guard members in Chicago are set to return to their home states amid legal challenges that have impeded their operational deployment. Meanwhile, the Illinois National Guard will maintain active duty status, and Oregon's contingent will be reduced to 100 troops, reflecting adjustments in federal troop presence in these urban areas.

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has reinstated Oregon Right to Life's lawsuit against the State of Oregon, reversing a lower court's dismissal and remanding the case to the district court for further examination of the organization's First Amendment claims.

The Oregon Department of Revenue has announced a projected surplus of $1.41 billion for the 2023-25 biennium, leading to a kicker tax credit for eligible residents in 2026. This credit can enhance tax refunds, decrease tax liabilities, or be donated entirely to the Oregon State School Fund or other approved charities.

The Oregon Department of Human Services has confirmed that SNAP benefits for residents remain secure, even as federal directives threaten to reverse court-sanctioned distributions. Governor Tina Kotek and Attorney General Dan Rayfield have pledged to vigorously oppose any federal measures aimed at penalizing the state for delivering essential food assistance.

A tragic incident in southeast Portland early Friday morning resulted in the death of a 35-year-old man, highlighting the ongoing issue of street racing in the area.

In a pivotal decision, U.S. District Court Judge Karin Immergut determined that former President Trump's deployment of troops to Portland was unjustified, overstepping his authority and breaching the 10th Amendment.

Portland's public camping ban is set to be enforced starting November 1, as police prepare to issue citations and conduct warrant checks on individuals camping or residing in vehicles on public property. Those found in violation of the policy may incur fines or face jail time.

Former Democratic Governor Ted Kulongoski, alongside other advocates, has filed two initiatives aimed at reforming Oregon's electoral system to permit all voters, including unaffiliated and minor party members, to participate in primaries.

Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley are among the national lawmakers advocating for the release of funds for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which faces a temporary suspension in less than a week due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. This suspension threatens to leave approximately 757,000 Oregonians without their monthly aid, highlighting the urgent need for federal intervention.