Dear Chamber Members,
Summer has arrived, and with it, more opportunities for your business to shine.
Oregon Business & Industry (OBI) recently released a new report detailing the growing regulatory burdens impacting businesses across the state. We’ve included a link in this month’s newsletter so you can review the findings yourself — and we encourage you to do so. The data underscores what many of you have already experienced firsthand:
- Oregon’s regulatory environment imposes the highest per-employee cost in the region, with an average of $9,500 in annual compliance costs per worker.
- The state has added over 1,200 new regulations affecting employers in just the last decade.
- 70% of Oregon businesses surveyed said regulatory complexity has made it more difficult to grow or hire.
These figures reinforce our ongoing concern about the State of Oregon’s increasingly unfriendly business climate. From excessive regulation to unpredictable tax and fee structures, many employers are questioning the long-term viability of doing business here. This is not just a Portland or Salem issue—it impacts businesses right here in Washington County.
The Washington County Chamber continues to express our insights and influence through strong advocacy efforts in both Salem and right here at home. We’ve been closely monitoring Washington County’s budget process and plan to submit formal testimony to the Board of Commissioners about the Chamber’s concerns, including proposed development fee increases, changes to MSTIP funding, and reductions in public safety investment.
We remain committed to being your voice on these issues—and to working toward a business climate that encourages growth, innovation, and opportunity.
You’ll also find a timely update in this month’s Advocacy in Action section on HB 2025 — the Transportation Reinvestment Package introduced on Monday (6/9). We’ve been actively tracking this bill and tuning into informational hearings to ensure the voice of business is represented.
Also of note from the State Legislature: Lawmakers passed SB 916 today, allowing striking workers to access unemployment benefits. Governor Kotek is expected to sign the bill. The Chamber continues to oppose the bill due to its potential impact on employers and the unemployment insurance system.
There’s still time to enter our Alaska Airlines raffle, but don’t wait — ticket sales close on June 22. Only 150 tickets are available, giving you excellent odds to win two roundtrip tickets to anywhere Alaska Airlines flies!
We’re also excited to offer you a free quarter-page ad in the upcoming 2025 Local Vibes Summer Shopping Guide & Business Directory — exclusively for Chamber members. This is a great way to promote your summer specials, new offerings, or simply remind the community that you’re here. Want more visibility? Upgrades are available.
This Saturday, join us at Jerry Willey Plaza for our Juneteenth celebration, “From Roots to Wings.” It’s an all-day celebration featuring music, food, vendors, and fun — a perfect way to support local businesses and celebrate freedom, culture, and community.
And finally, if you’re looking to connect with thousands of new customers, consider becoming a sponsor of the 2025 Unitus Community Credit Union Latino Cultural Festival. Taking place Sunday, June 22, at Hillsboro Ballpark, this is our largest and most visible event of the year, drawing more than 10,000 attendees. It’s a celebration you won’t want to miss. Reach out to me at deannap@wcchamber.org to secure your sponsorship – only a few remain.
As always, thank you for being part of our Chamber community. Let’s make this summer a season of growth and connection!
Warmest Regards,
Deanna Palm
President & CEO