{"id":421,"date":"2025-05-27T17:28:17","date_gmt":"2025-05-27T17:28:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.oregonstate.edu\/government\/?p=421"},"modified":"2025-05-27T17:32:55","modified_gmt":"2025-05-27T17:32:55","slug":"oregon-state-university-government-relations-update-may-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.oregonstate.edu\/government\/2025\/05\/27\/oregon-state-university-government-relations-update-may-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Oregon State University Government Relations Update | May 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Welcome to the OSU Government Relations Newsletter.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

With this communication, we’ll highlight some of the office’s work, updates from the state legislature and congressional delegation, university engagements with elected officials, and other OSU news. The newsletter will be sent quarterly, and we encourage you to share it with your colleagues. They can also sign up by using this link<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

State Relations<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

OSU Advocates for Higher Ed: Budget Hearings, Capital Projects, and What\u2019s Next<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
\"\"<\/a><\/figure>\n
Representing OSU during the hearings were President Jayathi Murthy; Scott Ashford, Dean of the College of Engineering; Tom DeLuca, Dean of the College of Forestry; Johnathan Hurst, College of Engineering faculty and Agility Robotics co-founder; David Bohnert, Director of the Eastern Oregon Agricultural Research Center, and Spirit Brooks, Director of Extension Outdoor School. Student leaders Audrey Schlotter and Adam Nickerson testified in the public hearing portion, as did several other OSU advocates and stakeholders.<\/sub><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

In late April and early May, Oregon\u2019s Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) held budget hearings in the Ways & Means Subcommittee on Education to shape the 2025\u201327 state funding framework for public universities. <\/strong>These hearings are critical for determining how state resources support student success, research, and workforce development. OSU was well represented, with testimony from university leaders emphasizing the need for strong investment in the Public University Support Fund, the Oregon Opportunity Grant, OSU\u2019s Statewide Public Service Programs, and state programs such as the Engineering and Technology Sustaining Fund and the Oregon Cybersecurity Center of Excellence. Their message was clear: sustained funding is essential to maintain access, affordability, and innovation across Oregon\u2019s higher education system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

Capital Construction Requests: Building for the Future<\/em><\/strong>
OSU is requesting two major capital construction investments, which were featured during a legislative hearing in the Ways & Means Subcommittee on Capital Construction:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

(1) STEM Learning Center \u2013 $73 million. <\/strong>This project will transform OSU\u2019s historic Heat Plant into a state-of-the-art physics teaching and research facility. It will serve not only OSU students but also K-12 learners across Oregon, inspiring the next generation of scientists and innovators.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

(2) Student Health and Recreation Center at OSU-Cascades \u2013 $42 million. <\/strong>This much-needed facility will provide mental health counseling, clinical services, physical therapy, and recreation space for students in Bend. It\u2019s a critical step in supporting student wellness, academic success, and the continued growth of the OSU-Cascades campus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Davide Lazzati, head of the Department of Physics; student Whitney McFarlane (OSU-Cascades); and community partners gave outstanding testimony on the long-term value of these projects for students, faculty, innovation, and regional economic development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oregon\u2019s Final Revenue Forecast: Stability Amid Uncertainty<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Oregon Office of Economic Analysis has released its final revenue forecast before the Legislature finalizes the 2025\u20132027 biennial budget.<\/strong> This forecast sets the stage for the final stretch of budget negotiations, with just six weeks remaining in the legislative Session.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The headline from this forecast is stability. While the numbers are slightly down from the last quarterly forecast, they remain above the projections made at the close of the 2023 legislative Session\u2014the foundation for the current two-year budget. In a time of federal uncertainty, a flat forecast is not unwelcome. However, it will impact the level of funding that the legislature has available to invest, including for higher education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oregon\u2019s economy grew by 1.2% last year, following a stronger 3.5% growth rate the year before. Economists suggest the state may be poised for a rebound in the coming year. However, Oregon\u2019s reliance on exports and manufacturing makes it particularly vulnerable to the effects of tariffs and trade disruptions. Oregon\u2019s growth continues to trail the national average.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite the slight dip from the last forecast, overall resources remain well above earlier projections. Personal and corporate tax revenues are both up significantly, boosting the state\u2019s financial outlook. The personal and corporate kickers are expected to return substantial funds to taxpayers and schools, and the state\u2019s ending balance and Rainy-Day Fund are both projected to grow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With this forecast in hand, the Legislature will begin the final phase of budget deliberations. As lawmakers weigh competing priorities, the conversation around how to allocate these additional resources is expected to intensify. OSU\u2019s Government Relations team will continue to advocate for the university\u2019s priorities and keep the campus community informed as the budget picture comes into focus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Beaver Caucus<\/a> is supporting our work with a legislative advocacy campaign for the Public University Support Fund and the Oregon Opportunity Grant. To participate and support funding for students, click here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

Passing of Sen. Aaron Woods (D-Wilsonville)<\/strong>
On April 19, Sen. Aaron Woods passed away after a long battle with cancer.<\/strong> A U.S. Army veteran and former Xerox executive, Sen. Woods was elected to represent Senate District 13 in 2022. He was quickly recognized as an optimistic man of integrity among his colleagues. The Oregon Capital Chronicle crafted this thoughtful write-up<\/a> on the Senator and his impact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

Appointment of Courtney Neron Misslin to the Senate<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>
\n

FILE – Rep. Courtney Neron, D-Wilsonville, Feb. 5, 2024, at the Capitol in Salem, Ore.<\/em> Neron seeks to replace the late Sen. Aaron Woods.<\/em> Kristyna Wentz-Graff \/ OPB.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Following Sen. Woods’ passing, county commissioners appointed Rep. Courtney Neron (D-Sherwood) to fill the empty SD 13 seat.<\/strong> Before her swearing-in ceremony, she noted she will add her maiden name, “Misslin,” to the end of her name as a nod to her family roots. Sen. Courtney Neron Misslin (D-Wilsonville) was sworn in on May 9 and will serve for the remainder of Sen. Woods’ term (to January 2027).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Senator Neron Misslin\u2019s appointment leaves an open seat in the House, which will be filled by Clackamas and Yamhill County Commissioners. Democrat precinct representatives will nominate candidates for consideration this weekend. A date for the Commission\u2019s decision has not been set.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

Beavers in Action<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

OSU Advocates Take Over the Capitol for University Lobby Day<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
\"\"<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

President Murthy joined Chancellor Sherm Bloomer, Beaver Caucus member Greg Macpherson, OSU Executives, students, and OSU Foundations members for Lobby Day at the State Capitol. Photo taken at the State Library of Oregon. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

On April 3, the Oregon State Capitol buzzed with Beaver pride as OSU students, alumni, and university leaders came together for University Lobby Day: <\/strong>a powerful display of civic engagement and community spirit. In a series of coordinated meetings, small teams of Beavers connected with 60 state legislators to advocate for critical issues shaping the future of higher education in Oregon. Their priorities included increased funding for universities, expanded student support services, and vital capital improvements to enhance campus infrastructure. The day wasn\u2019t just about policy\u2014it was about presence. By showing up and speaking out, the OSU community underscored the importance of legislative engagement in advancing the university\u2019s mission and strengthening the state\u2019s educational landscape. The event concluded with a reception hosted by the OSU Foundation and Alumni Association. Attendees enjoyed a showcase of Beaver Classic products and learned about the university\u2019s impactful Extension programming that serves communities across Oregon. University Lobby Day was more than a day at the Capitol\u2014it was a celebration of advocacy, connection, and the power of the OSU community to shape a brighter future.<\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"\"<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

President Murthy, Greg Macpherson, and students met with Representative Ben Bowman (District 25) and staff. Macpherson served three terms in the Oregon House of Representatives from 2003 to 2009.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

President Murthy and Greg Macpherson. Macpherson has served on the Board of Directors of the Beaver Caucus since 2017, advocating for OSU\u2019s interests in Salem.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

Legislative Dates of Importance\u202f\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

May 23\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Bills to Moved Out of 2nd<\/sup> Chamber Committees\u202f\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

June 18\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Target Sine Die<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

June 29                        Constitutional Sine Die<\/em>\u202f <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u202fFor further information, questions, or to flag specific issues or actions of interest, please email <\/em>Katie.Fast@oregonstate.edu<\/em><\/a> or <\/em>Katheryn.Yetter@oregonstate.edu<\/em><\/a>.<\/em>\u202f <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

Federal Relations<\/u><\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

OSU Federal Relations continues to focus on efforts to help support OSU leadership and the OSU community work through the dynamic federal landscape.<\/strong> We are focused on key developments across the federal agenda related to OSU interests: (1) current fiscal year funding and changes to federal agencies and programs; (2) development of next fiscal year federal funding bills; and (3) the budget reconciliation package moving through Congress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Current Fiscal Year Funding and Changes: Over the past quarter, the administration has continued efforts to make changes across government, including the size and scope of government agencies, programs and services, and the federal workforce, as well as changes to federal grant program priorities. We recognize that there is a lot of concern and interest in changes and the uncertainty yet for what\u2019s to come. For those interested in more details on the federal research landscape, we encourage the OSU community to continue to track information in regular emails from and on the website of the Division of Research and Innovation<\/a> to help stay informed of policy changes or legal actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Development of Next Fiscal Year Federal Funding Bills: Earlier this month, the White House released a \u201cskinnybudget<\/a>\u201d which is an overview of a more detailed President\u2019s Budget Request for FY26 funding for the government that is still in development. The proposed budget would reduce spending by $163 billion or 23% from current year levels and poses concerns for investment in education, research, and other programs important to OSU. The release of the skinny budget has initiated the process in Congress to start developing the legislation to fund the government for next year. Currently, the House and Senate appropriations committees are hearing from leaders across the administration, and they are also getting input from members of Congress on their priorities. Congress will consider the administration\u2019s priorities but will also assert its own priorities in any legislation. Federal Relations is actively working with the Oregon delegation to urge Congress to protect funding for higher education and research programs that support OSU\u2019s mission to serve Oregonians and drive a world-class research enterprise. We expect to see appropriations bills this summer, followed by efforts to enact legislation to fund the government into next fiscal year by October 1. \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Budget Reconciliation – the One Big Beautiful Bill Act: A budget reconciliation bill is currently working through Congress. The bill may be considered on the House floor as soon as this week. This bill proposes to enact sweeping changes across government programs, including higher education, tax, and entitlement programs. The higher education package would cut a total of $349 billion over 10 years, including concerning changes such as: elimination of subsidized undergraduate loans; reducing Pell Grants for students enrolled in less than 15 grants per term; making students enrolled in less than half-time ineligible for Pell Grants; new student loan repayment plans with greater financial responsibility for borrowers; and new risk-sharing provisions for financial accountability of institutions to reimburse the Department of Education based on student loan non-repayment rates. For more information, the Congressional Budget Office provides an overview of the costs and impacts of proposed changes to the higher education programs here<\/a>. The package also includes changes to tax policy, Medicaid, and SNAP programs, including the proposed elimination of the SNAP-Ed program. If or when the reconciliation bill clears the House, the Senate will next have the opportunity to consider the package. The Senate is not expected to accept a House bill in full. There are several steps to this process yet to come.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As we continue to work through this dynamic landscape across all these fronts, we are focused on opportunities to help decision makers understand what\u2019s at stake, to help the OSU community have information to help make decisions, and to help OSU be in position for opportunities yet to come. We appreciate all the outreach and collaboration from the OSU community to help us do this, both from campus and in Washington, DC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u202f For further information or questions or to flag specific issues or actions of interest, please email <\/em>Gabrielle.Serra@oregonstate.edu<\/em><\/a>.\u202f<\/em>\u202f <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

Tribal Relations<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"\"<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

46th Annual latwa ina Pow-Wow:<\/strong> Jon Boekenstedt, Vice Provost of Enrollment Management at OSU, says, \u201cThe pow-wow held at Oregon State University every spring is a great chance to learn about the Native tribes of Oregon, their history, culture, food, and traditions.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Pow-wow is an annual event, held at Gill Coliseum on May 17, 2025, and this years\u2019 event was well attended by tribes from all over Oregon. The event was organized by the Native American Student Association<\/em>, or NASA, which is a united group of Oregon State students interested in promoting Native American education in higher education institutions, to preserve and promote Native American culture and identity, to uphold Native American rights, and to retain Native American students who attend OSU. For details, send an email to nativeamericanstudentassociation@oregonstate.edu<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The event featured Indigenous dancers, singers, a marketplace, and a delicious assortment of traditional and modern foods. Participants included Carlos Calica, Anthony Bluehorse, Ramona Quenelle, Anthony Quenelle, Star Horse, and Honor Drum Four Directions. The Honor Guard was provided by the Grand Ronde Honor Guard, a distinguished group of Native American veterans. The Honor Guard plays a vital role in honoring military service and preserving cultural traditions through ceremonial functions, community engagement, veterans\u2019 recognition, and visual representation. Flags, traditional regalia, and eagle staffs serve as powerful symbols of respect and remembrance for ancestors who have served in the military.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To learn more, go to www.grandronde.org <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

For further information, questions, or to flag specific issues or actions of interest, please email <\/em>Chance.White-Eyes@oregonstate.edu<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Image credit: OSU Today. 05-21-2025.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

Timely News<\/u><\/strong>\u202f<\/p>\n\n\n\n