Your trusted source for local Warm Springs, OR news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Oregon's legislative session is at its midpoint, revealing a landscape marked by uncertainty and challenges. Lawmakers confront pressing issues like housing, public defense, and mental health care, yet a clear path forward remains elusive. The session, characterized by a mix of cordiality and underlying tensions, reflects a struggle to address critical problems while navigating party dynamics.
Cultural events Latino Fest in Madras and Juneteenth in Bend have been canceled for 2025 due to safety concerns amid fears of deportation and violence against minority communities. Organizers cite a volatile political climate and recent immigration enforcement actions as contributing factors to their decisions. Community leaders emphasize the need for safety and healing in light of rising racial aggression.
Experts warn that Oregon’s manufacturing sector faces significant challenges due to escalating global trade tensions and tariffs. These trade barriers could hinder the state's economy, reminiscent of the impact felt during the first Trump administration. With over 180,000 jobs tied to manufacturing, the uncertainty surrounding tariffs is causing businesses to reassess their operations and future investments.
Ten projects in Oregon are among over 470 across the U.S. that are currently stalled after the EPA suspended grants worth more than $1.7 billion. This includes a $16 million community center in Chiloquin, designed to aid in climate resilience and disaster response. Local officials and stakeholders are calling for accountability and answers regarding the funding delay.
The CAHOOTS program, known for providing crisis services in Eugene, has ceased operations due to financial constraints, as announced in a joint press release from White Bird and the City of Eugene. While the service will continue in Springfield, this abrupt termination raises concerns about mental health support accessibility in the area. Officials urge the public to seek help through alternative resources during this transition.
Marine biologist Carrie Newell has published a new children's book, "Koda and the Whales," which shares the unique perspective of her dog, Koda, as he learns about gray whales along the Oregon coast. The book highlights Newell's groundbreaking research on the whales' feeding habits and emphasizes themes of individuality and family. Through engaging storytelling and relatable experiences, Newell aims to make marine biology accessible to younger audiences.
Oregon is facing a significant crisis regarding unrepresented individuals in the legal system, with over 4,000 people lacking legal counsel, affecting both defendants and victims alike. The situation has escalated since a 2018 report highlighted systemic flaws in public defense, prompting lawmakers to initiate reforms. However, the current landscape remains dire, with many cases stalled and the integrity of the justice system at stake.
A recent ruling by the Oregon Court of Appeals prohibits police from livestreaming protests unless documenting a crime, raising significant implications for law enforcement and civil rights. The American Civil Liberties Union of Oregon hailed the decision, emphasizing that it reinforces protections against police surveillance of lawful political activities. This ruling could reshape how Portland police manage and retain protest footage, impacting ongoing civil cases.
The Woodburn School Board has narrowly approved a ‘Safe and Welcoming Schools’ resolution aimed at protecting students regardless of their immigration status after significant community pressure. The decision, which came after an intense board meeting filled with protests and emotional testimonies, highlights the ongoing debate surrounding immigration policies and their impact on education. This resolution is viewed as a critical step for the largely immigrant-led community of Woodburn, Oregon.
The Oregon Court of Appeals upheld Ballot Measure 114, which imposes stricter regulations on firearm purchases, including a ban on high-capacity magazines and a requirement for permits. This decision, which reverses a previous ruling, has sparked significant debate among supporters and opponents, highlighting the ongoing struggle over gun regulations in the state.