The 2025 legislative long session kicked off with an avalanche of over 2,300 bills introduced—and that number has only grown since. As lawmakers debate policies that could significantly impact businesses and communities across Oregon, the McMinnville Area Chamber of Commerce has been working diligently to stay on top of the most critical issues. We know how challenging it can be to keep up with the rapid pace of legislative changes, which is why we’re focused on ensuring our members’ voices are heard amidst the noise.

Our mission is clear: to advocate for policies that support business growth, strengthen our local economy, and enhance the quality of life in McMinnville. From small businesses to large employers, the policies crafted in Salem and Washington, D.C., directly affect the health of our local economy, the success of our members, and the vitality of our community.

Navigating over 2,300 bills requires more than just reading through legislation—it takes a strategic, proactive approach to advocacy. We’re engaging with lawmakers, testifying on key issues, and collaborating with regional and statewide partners to amplify the concerns and needs of McMinnville’s business community.

Whether it’s advocating for infrastructure improvements like the Newberg-Dundee Bypass, supporting education initiatives such as the Chemeketa Community College bond, or pushing back on overly burdensome regulations like the Advanced Clean Trucks Rule, the Chamber is committed to being the voice for local businesses at every level—local, county, state, and federal.

Advocacy isn’t always about immediate wins. It’s about staying in the conversation, building meaningful relationships, and working towards long-term solutions. We believe in slow, intentional progress, knowing that real change often comes through persistence and collaboration.

In this month’s update, you’ll find highlights of the most pressing issues we’re tackling, why they matter, and how they impact our members and community. As always, we encourage you to get involved—whether that’s through our Government Affairs Committee, by testifying on issues that affect your business, or by simply staying informed.

Together, we can make sure that the voice of McMinnville’s business community remains strong and clear.

County Advocacy

Chemeketa Community College Bond – May 2025 (Support)

What’s Happening:
The Chamber is actively supporting Chemeketa Community College’s upcoming bond measure, scheduled for the May 2025 ballot. This bond aims to enhance campus facilities and expand workforce training programs. This is NOT a new tax or new bond but is a renewal of their current bond. Voting yes for this bond measure maintains our communities support of our community college.

The Problem:
Without the bond’s passage, Chemeketa may struggle to provide the necessary resources and infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of students and local employers, leading to workforce gaps in key industries. Without this bond measure there will be programs cut that will the career and technical education that our workforce and students need.

Why This Matters:
Investing in education and workforce training is essential for maintaining a strong pipeline of skilled workers in McMinnville and the surrounding region. Supporting this bond directly benefits local businesses by ensuring access to a well-trained workforce.

State-Level Initiatives

Newberg-Dundee Bypass – 2025 Transportation Package (Support)

What’s Happening:
The Chamber continues to advocate for the inclusion of the Newberg-Dundee Bypass in the 2025 State Transportation Package. This critical infrastructure project has been a long-standing priority for regional economic development and safety.

The Problem:
Current traffic congestion in Newberg and Dundee creates significant delays for commuters and freight, increasing transportation costs and hindering regional commerce.

Why This Matters:
Completing the bypass would improve traffic flow, reduce shipping times, and enhance safety, making McMinnville and surrounding areas more attractive for business investment and tourism.

HB 3119 – Advanced Clean Trucks Rule Delay (Support)

What’s Happening:
HB 3119 seeks to delay Oregon DEQ’s implementation of the Advanced Clean Trucks Rule until 2027. The Chamber has submitted written testimony in support of the bill, highlighting the challenges the rule poses for businesses reliant on medium- and heavy-duty diesel vehicles.

The Problem:
The current rule mandates that a percentage of new truck sales be zero-emission, but Oregon lacks the infrastructure—such as charging stations—to support this transition. There also isn’t the market or the product for heavy duty electrical vehicles. Additionally, the high cost and limited range of electric trucks place an unfair burden on businesses, particularly in sectors like logistics and manufacturing.

Why This Matters:
A delay allows businesses more time to adapt to zero-emission requirements while giving the state time to build the necessary infrastructure. This approach balances environmental goals with economic realities, protecting local businesses from undue financial strain.

SB 916 – Unemployment Benefits for Striking Workers (Oppose)

What’s Happening:
SB 916 proposes extending unemployment benefits to striking workers. The Chamber opposes this bill and has communicated concerns to local legislators.

The Problem:
This bill would fundamentally change the purpose of unemployment insurance, shifting it from a safety net for job loss to a tool in labor disputes. It could also result in increased costs for employers through higher unemployment insurance premiums.

Why This Matters:
This legislation could place an additional financial burden on businesses, particularly small employers, and potentially incentivize prolonged strikes, leading to operational disruptions and economic instability.

SB 69 – Paid Leave Oregon Amendments (Support)

What’s Happening:
SB 69 proposes amendments to Oregon’s Paid Leave laws, aimed at clarifying existing policies and improving alignment with federal leave standards. The Chamber supports these changes and is working with business groups to advocate for the bill’s passage.

The Problem:
The current Paid Leave Oregon framework has created confusion for both employers and employees due to unclear language and inconsistent guidelines, leading to compliance challenges and administrative burdens.

Why This Matters:
By clarifying the law, SB 69 will help businesses better manage employee leave while ensuring workers receive the benefits they’re entitled to. This will reduce compliance risks and simplify HR processes for employers.

Federal Issues

Tariffs on U.S. Businesses (Oppose)

What’s Happening:
The Chamber stands with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in opposing tariffs that negatively impact U.S. businesses and consumers. Advocacy efforts are focused on urging federal policymakers to enact a permanent pause on these tariffs.

The Problem:
Current tariffs increase costs on imported goods, leading to higher prices for manufacturers, retailers, and ultimately consumers. These additional costs make it harder for local businesses to remain competitive, especially small and medium-sized enterprises.

Why This Matters:
Removing or pausing tariffs would lower operational costs for businesses, reduce consumer prices, and help stabilize the economy, fostering a healthier environment for business growth and job creation.

Extending the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (Support)

What’s Happening:
The Chamber supports efforts to extend key provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), which are set to expire in 2025. We are working alongside national partners to advocate for making these tax cuts permanent.

The Problem:
If the TCJA provisions expire, many businesses—especially small and medium-sized enterprises—will face higher tax burdens. This could lead to reduced investments in expansion, hiring, and wage growth.

Why This Matters:
Extending the TCJA will provide businesses with long-term tax certainty, fostering a pro-growth environment that encourages investment, job creation, and economic stability. It also helps keep U.S. businesses competitive on a global scale.

Get Involved

Your voice matters! If you’re interested in joining our Government Affairs Committee or want to share how these issues impact your business, reach out to us today. Together, we can continue to advocate for a stronger, more resilient McMinnville business community.