Page 6 - PPGA Propane Post Winter

Oregon Lobbyist Report
JENNY DRESLER
LEGISLATIVE DAYS HELD IN NOVEMBER
The Oregon Legislature met twice over the last few months (September and November) to hold “Legislative Days.” During the six days of meetings, legislators returned to the Capitol to hold interim committee meetings, plan for the 2024 short ses- sion, and approve a list of Executive Appointments.
This was the first activity of the legislature since the 2023 reg- ular session adjourned June 25th, and is also the symbolic start of the run-up to the 2024 session. In preparation for 2024, here are some things to keep in mind about short session:
• The 2024 legislative session is a very quick, 35-day ses- sion.
• Session will begin Monday, February 5th, and must ad- journ by Sunday, March 10th.
• Legislators are limited to 2 bills, while committees are limited to 3 bills.
• In 2022, there were 102 Senate bills and 172 House bills for a total of 274 bills.
• Session deadlines move very quickly. Most bills in their initial ‘chamber of origin’ will need to be considered, negotiated and approved within four meeting dates.
• The second chamber moves just as quick – 3 to 4 meet-
• •
ings in the second chamber for most committees.
In total, policy committees have between 10-12 hours to
take public testimony and get all work done in the short session.
Budget-wise, legislators are reluctant to roll-up funding that could fuel budget increases for the next biennium and have tended to favored one-time spending proposals.
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PACIFIC PROPANE GAS ASSOCIATION
35 days does not leave much time for legislators to meet with advocates, constituents or members of the lobby. With that in mind, the team at PAC uses the “Legislative Days” in Septem- ber, November and January to forecast upcoming legislative issues, lobby our issues and educate legislators on topics we view as critical for the upcoming session.
This year, we focused on a reintroduction of the propane industry—including the environmental benefits of propane and the challenges facing the industry because of certain leg- islative and regulatory mandates. Ryan Buller of McMinnville Gas and PPGA Executive Director Matt Solak attended over 15 meetings with keys lawmakers during the November “Legisla- tive Days.”