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News Release

Contact:    Robin Maxey                                                                  September 14, 2009

                   (503) 986-1605   

                   robin.maxey@state.or.us                                                             

Edwards Appointed to Ways and Means Committee

(SALEM) -- Senator Chris Edwards (D-Eugene) has been appointed to the powerful Joint Ways and Means Committee by Senate President Peter Courtney, it was announced today.

The Joint Ways and Means Committee is the chief budget writing body of the Oregon Legislative Assembly and will play a key role in making adjustments to the state budget when the Legislature convenes in a supplemental session in February 2010, the Senate President said.

“I am honored to be appointed to the Ways and Means Committee and I welcome the opportunity to provide increased opportunity for Oregonians and the responsibility to enforce the fiscal accountability taxpayers expect and deserve," Edwards said.

Edwards took the oath of office as the newest member of the Senate, Sept. 2. He was appointed by Lane County Commissioners to fill the seat vacated by former Senator Vicki Walker in July.

In the 2009 Session, Edwards served on the Ways and Means Sub-Committees on Education and Natural Resources as a member of the Oregon House of Representatives.

“Chris’s first two terms have been all about making sure Oregonians’ tax dollars are being spent wisely and efficiently,” Courtney said. “His business education, background in natural resources and budget writing experience in the House make him a natural choice for Ways and Means – the committee which will be at the center of the February session.”

Also today, Courtney announced Edwards’ appointment as the Senate representative on the Oregon Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorder. Edwards sponsored the legislation last session that created the commission.