Transportation was an issue all agreed upon: something had to be done. All agreed upon something else – not much would.  Despite a crumbling infrastructure and pressure from the business community, transportation received only modest attention in terms of funding. The legislature did set aside several hundred thousand dollars to study the issue for future sessions. 

Bills Passed 

HB 2278 (Connect Oregon II) -  Authorizes lottery bonds up to $100 million plus an additional amount established by the State Treasurer to pay bond-related costs for transportation projects funded from Multimodal Transportation Fund. Modifies qualifications to consider in selecting projects to include whether the project: improves access to jobs and sources of labor, results in economic benefit to State, connects elements of Oregon’s transportation system.  

Bills Failed 

HB 2269 - Blue Plate Special. Increases fees on license plates.