Oregon Launches 2025 with New Laws, Economic Shifts, and Environmental Challenges

Oregon is ushering in the new year with a slew of new laws and economic updates. As of January 1, 2025, nearly two dozen bills passed by lawmakers have taken effect, covering a wide range of topics from stricter penalties for drug use on transit to easier paths for fixing broken devices and stricter enforcement for drivers who fail to yield to school buses[1].

In the realm of government and politics, Governor Kotek has been reviewing and signing the 115 bills that passed out of the 2024 legislative session. Any bills not vetoed by the Governor will become law either immediately or 91 days after the session's end, depending on their specific provisions[2].

Economically, Oregon is expected to experience a moderate deceleration, with the unemployment rate projected to rise to 6.8% by early 2025. However, state revenues have been outpacing expectations, particularly in personal and corporate income taxes, and the General Fund forecast has seen positive revisions[3].

On the environmental front, recent soggy weather has been alleviating drought across Oregon, with the state climatologist noting that this is the wettest winter in 15 years. However, parts of central Oregon will remain in moderate drought, and there is a potential hazard ahead with warmer-than-usual temperatures and the risk of flooding from atmospheric river events[4].

Looking Ahead:
- The state's Rainy Day Fund is set to receive an additional $200 million in June, bolstering Oregon's financial preparedness for economic downturns[1].
- The 2025 legislative session is on the horizon, with legislative concepts needing to be submitted by September 27th for consideration[2].
- Oregonians should remain vigilant for potential flooding and landslides as warmer weather and atmospheric river events could pose significant risks in the coming months[4].

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