PFAS AKA “Forever Chemicals”

Photo of firefighter using foam to put out a car fire
When we first wrote about PFAS in 2020 they were still relatively new in the public consciousness. Today, the full scope of these "forever chemicals" has come frighteningly into focus.

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2024 Legislative Session

OEC’s legislative advocacy in the 2024 short session will take key bills over the finish line, secure essential funding for environmental programs, and deliver on our promise to stay vigilant for the health of Oregon’s environment and communities. Our advocacy helps ensure healthy air, thriving communities, clean and plentiful water, and climate resiliency. Our policies harness innovation and create new economic opportunities. They are grounded in preventing harm and advancing fairness. YOU CAN GET INVOLVED: Sign up for our Grassroots Action Information Network ...

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Could Oregon be the 5th state to pass a ‘right to repair’ law? Here is how you can help!

Oregon’s Right to Repair (SB 1596) will reduce Oregon’s electronic waste footprint by requiring technology companies to make parts that allow small businesses to repair electronics like smartphones.

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Update: OR OSHA publishes final rules governing the right to refuse dangerous work

A farmworker carries berries in a field
Earlier this year, OEC and partners helped win a bill to give workers the right to refuse hazardous work (SB 907). We stayed at the table and provided information on how Oregon OSHA should carry out the intent of the law. While we are disappointed that the rules are missing some key points of clarity around extreme heat, smoke, and other environmental threats, OEC and our partners plan to ramp up education and outreach to ensure workers understand their rights.

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Huge Wins for Public Health! Oregon Lawmakers Act to Keep Toxic Chemicals Out of Cosmetics and Kids’ Products

In a resounding victory for the health and well-being of Oregonians, Oregon Environmental Council and coalition partners successfully advocated for the passage of two crucial environmental health bills in the 2023 legislative session.

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The Right to Refuse Dangerous Work: Another Victory for Worker Safety in a Warming Climate

A farmworker carries berries in a field
As advocates for farmworkers, who endure intense manual labor in hazardous conditions such as pesticides, extreme heat, and smoke, PCUN recognizes SB 907 as a crucial stride towards safeguarding their well-being.

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Childrens’ Health Bill Endangered by Senate Walkout

After 3 months of negotiations, HB 3043 is currently awaiting a vote in front of the Senate floor.

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Governor Kotek signs two bills to reduce plastic pollution in Oregon

For Immediate Release:      Monday, May 8th, 2023 Contact:  Celeste Meiffren-Swango, [email protected], 323-580-8772 Tara Brock, [email protected], 248-670-8033 Charlie Plybon, [email protected], 541-961-8143 Dr. Anja Brandon, [email protected], 206-240-1510 Charlie Fisher, [email protected], 206-853-5725 Jamie Pang, [email protected], 858-699-4153 SALEM, Ore.-- Governor Tina Kotek signed two bills into law to address the growing environmental and public health impacts of single-use plastics Monday, positioning Oregon as a ...

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PRESS RELEASE: Lawmakers and Environmental Health Advocates Call for the Passage of a Suite of Toxics Bills During National Public Health Week

For Immediate Release April 4, 2023 Downloadable PDF Media Contacts: Pablo Nieves-Valenzuela, Office of Courtney Neron, [email protected], 503-601-9730   Nickole Vargas, Office of Janeen Sollman, [email protected], 503-956-7736 Jamie Pang, Oregon Environmental Council, [email protected], 971-353-7963  Emily Matlock, Beyond Toxics, [email protected], 541-465-8860 ext. 820 Celeste Meiffren-Swango, Environment Oregon, [email protected], 323-580-8772   Lawmakers and Environmental ...

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It’s National Public Health Week. Let’s tackle toxic chemicals!

Three kids playing in a sandbox
This post was co-authored by Lisa Arkin, Executive Director, Beyond Toxics It’s National Public Health Week. Let’s tackle toxic chemicals! Every child deserves a safe environment to grow in that allows them to become strong and healthy and develop to their full potential. During National Public Health Week, it's important to draw attention to the health impacts and risks from toxic chemicals in products and the places where children live, learn and play. It is now estimated that 10 million synthetic chemicals are added to the marketplace every year. They range from ...

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