2023 Oregon Legislative Session Starts
Posted on January 17, 2023 by Charlotte Shuff
Tags, Energy, Telecommunications, General Interest
Every year, CUB staff works hard to advocate for fair and affordable utilities in Salem. We are excited to get to work at the 2023 Oregon Legislative Session.
Although many bills are still in the works CUB will be advocating for strong policies on:
- Advancing energy-efficient buildings
- Addressing fossil fuels in our energy system
- Protecting households from wildfire costs on their utility bills
- Expanding broadband internet across the state
- Expanding access to internet-connected devices with Right to Repair
“I’m looking forward to getting down to the nitty-gritty of what planning for a clean energy future looks like. We’ll have honest conversations about how this new direction could impact customers, particularly their wallets.” – Jennifer Hill-Hart, CUB Policy Manager
CUB Prepares for a Long Session
We don’t expect that this will be an easy session for climate legislation, though. As more and more Oregon cities and municipalities are looking into issues surrounding natural gas (methane), gas companies are going on the offensive.
Already, the gas lobby has introduced a bill to prevent Oregon cities from passing local laws to limit new methane in their communities. CUB will keep a close eye on fossil fuel-funded bills that could harm both Oregon utility customers and the environment.
“I’m looking forward to working with our coalition groups and with partner organizations to support our legislative priorities and to continue to work towards a clean energy future that supports and works for Oregonians.” – Kate Ayres, CUB Policy Advocate
2023 Legislation
Energy Efficient Buildings
Buildings are the second largest and longest-lasting source of climate pollution in Oregon. By making our homes, schools, and places of work more energy efficient, we can reduce energy bills and build a healthier environment for generations to come.
Addressing Fossil Fuels in Our Energy Systems
CUB will continue to advocate for clean utilities in this year’s session. By 2040, Oregon is committed to 100% clean electricity. Gas companies are also required to significantly reduce their emissions in the coming years with the Climate Protection Program. CUB will push for policies that advance these goals, address fossil fuels in our energy systems, and work for Oregonians’ utility bills.
Protecting Utility Customers from Wildfire Costs
Last year, many Oregon households saw large increases in their utility bills due to costs related to wildfires. Now, utility companies have the opportunity to cover these costs without billing customers. A new policy may allow utilities to lower costs to customers while addressing important wildfire mitigation and other extreme weather expenses.
Expanding Broadband Internet Across Oregon
In 2022, lawmakers passed a law to add nearly $200 million in investments for broadband internet across the state. This law helped make Oregon eligible for new federal funding. To make the most of these funds, we need to make additional updates to the Affordable Connectivity program.
Expanding Internet Access with Right to Repair
Ever tried to repair a smartphone without replacing the whole thing? If so, then you know that fixing existing devices can be near impossible. Right to Repair would change that, making internet connecting devices more accessible while also reducing harmful e-waste. CUB has supported Right to Repair efforts in the past and will continue to do so this year.
Stay Up to Date on Oregon Utility Issues
CUB will continue to advocate for people in Oregon on major utility issues such as this rate increase. Sign up for the CUB email list for the latest updates, action alerts, and news on policies that affect the utilities your home relies on.
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01/17/23 | 0 Comments | 2023 Oregon Legislative Session Starts