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  In this issue:






Senator Joanne Verger

503.986.1705
sen.joanneverger@state.or.us

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Dear friends and neighbors,

Thank you for subscribing to my electronic newsletter. In this issue I want to highlight some of the most important bills I am working on right now to give you a better idea of the Legislature's work.

As always, I appreciate your support and welcome your feedback -- please do not hesitate to contact me if you need anything at all.

Federal Sstimulustimulus Links Updated

As I mentioned in my last newsletter, there are many resources for you to find information about the federal stimulus plan. The Obama administration has also shown an impressive commitment to providing transparency in this process. Since the bill's passage, many of these resources have been updated with new information. Be sure to click the links to the left to find out more.

One excellent resource is a website, www.recovery.gov, which lists how funds are being spent. The site will be updated as federal agencies submit requests for projects, so be sure to check it often for the most accurate information.

Billsbills to Watch

SB 548
This bill will require the Department of Human Services to collaborate with stakeholders, advocates and community partners to develop a set of resources and services to keep seniors and persons with disabilities in their own homes. It will also work to avoid or reduce the need for medical assistance for long-term care. The bill has had one public hearing in the Human Services and Rural Health Policy Committee which I am a member of - I will be working to make sure it passes.

HB 2010 - The 2009 Jobs and Transportation Act
Investing in our transportation system is the strongest stimulus tool available to us during this
current economic downturn. It creates jobs, keeps products moving effectively and efficiently and helps local businesses keep their doors open.

Oregon's multi-billion dollar transportation infrastructure hasn't been maintained to keep
up with population growth and freight traffic, hindering Oregon's ability to move people,
commerce and goods effectively throughout the state. The result is more gridlock, more time spent in the car instead of with our families, and more carbon emissions in our air.

SB 932 
Many Seniors struggle on a fixed income and it is my priority this session to provide some relief.  This legislation will grant a modest tax credit to Oregonians over 75 years of age who have income less then $25,000 and whose property tax is more than 6.5% of their income.

SB 933 
As I have spoken at various middle schools across the state, I have become concerned that our children do not know their Oregon history as well as they should. This legislation will ensure middle school students learn the history of this great state.

SB 935
This bill will provide funding to create a system to provide emergency responders with maps of Oregon's schools so that in a crisis, they can respond more effectively.  

You can look up a bill that you might be interested in by clicking here


Ccontactontacting my Office

Thank you for your continued support of my work as your Senator for the past four years. I ask you to join my voice in the next four as together, we work to "set the pace" for the future of the Oregon Coast. If you ever have questions, comments or concerns about my work in Salem, please contact my office at (503) 986-1705 or by e-mail at sen.joanneverger@state.or.us to share your thoughts with me.

As well, Kathy Verger Muscus is based in our North Bend office. She provides a variety of services and often represents me at meetings involving both local and statewide matters. Kathy keeps my constituents informed about my positions on important issues and does a wonderful job of conveying the thoughts, feelings and concerns of south-central coast residents to me. She can be reached by phone at (541) 290-0841 and by e-mail at kgvm@charter.net.

Sincerely,

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State Senator Joanne Verger

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