2026 Short Session Update

Sarah Clark – Deputy Director of Programs

When I joined OEC in November, I hit the ground running with the program team to prepare for the legislative session. Despite it being a “short” session year, we brought some major legislation to the table – focused on strengthening climate accountability, shoring up protections from environmental catastrophes, advancing much-needed improvements to the state’s transportation system and protecting essential state programs from sweeping cuts.

Short sessions move fast – we’ve already flown past the halfway mark in what feels like the blink of an eye. But in just a few weeks time, we’ve already made some exciting progress. OEC has been working with the Make Polluters Pay coalition to pass the Climate Resilience Superfund Bill. This legislation would hold the biggest out-of-state fossil fuel polluters accountable for the damage they’ve done to Oregon, increasing revenue for climate adaptation and mitigation efforts. After hundreds of Oregonians showed up to voice their support (thank you!👏), the bill has officially passed out of committee and into ways and means. It’s a huge milestone for a much-needed policy that has already proven its effectiveness in other states.

There has also been a fair share of setbacks. Last week, a temporary legislator walkout put a brief “pause” on any meaningful movement in the legislature. Budget constraints have also never been tighter – so we’re showing up with our partners in the Move Oregon Forward coalition to make sure critical transportation programs that benefit everyone don’t end up on the chopping block.

Despite these hurdles, there is tangible energy in our movement. It’s been heartening to see how many Oregonians from all walks of life have shown up on Capitol grounds to speak up for the issues that matter most. For every crucial bill that doesn’t make it past this finish line this session, we’ll come back to fight for next session, building on the momentum we’ve gained together.

With federal protections being stripped away left and right – including most recently the Endangerment Finding repeal (more on that below) – the progress we make at home has never been more important. Be sure to sign up for our Grassroots Action mailing list for more legislative updates.

Thank you for being with us in the fight.

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