Mia Maldonado - Oregon Capital Chronicle
Mia Maldonado began working at the Oregon Capital Chronicle in 2025 to cover the Oregon Legislature and state agencies with a focus on social services. She began her journalism career with the Capital Chronicle's sister outlet in Idaho, the Idaho Capital Sun, where she received multiple awards for her coverage of the environment and Latino affairs. She has a bachelor's degree in Spanish and international political economy from the College of Idaho. Born and raised in the West, Mia enjoys hiking, skiing and rockhounding in her free time.
Oregon’s top public health official resigns
Oregon Health Authority director Dr. Sejal Hathi will step down effective Aug. 1
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Nearly every proposed Oregon initiative won’t make it onto the November ballot
Only one citizen petition is on track for November ballot, a drop from previous election cycles.
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Oregon lawmakers hint at major changes to school funding in 2027
Lawmakers established the Quality Education Commission in 1999 to set funding needs for public schools, but some lawmakers argue its model is outdated and flawed.
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This nonaffiliated Oregonian is running for Congress. His campaign looks different than most
Jason Faler spends most of his weekends collecting signatures at the Salem Saturday Market. He's seeking to join the race for Oregon's 6th Congressional District as a nonaffiliated candidate. If he qualifies for the ballot, he'll be up against Republican David Russ and incumbent U.S. Rep. Andrea Salinas, a Democrat from Tigard.
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Oregonians must complete interviews to receive SNAP benefits starting June 1
Starting June 1, everyone applying for or renewing their federal food benefits will have to complete an interview with state human services staff. Since the pandemic, there has been flexibility for seniors and other specific groups.
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Oregon voters overwhelmingly rejecting hikes to gas tax and vehicle fees
More than 80% of Oregon voters were opposing Measure 120, according to initial 2026 primary election results.
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This lesser-known program could keep Oregonians on SNAP, but there aren’t enough slots
People participating in Oregon's Workfare Program aren’t paid but gain experience while meeting SNAP work requirements.
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Xicha Brewing says Oregon GOP candidate scheduled campaign event without permission
Rep. Ed Diehl, a Scio Republican vying for his party’s gubernatorial nomination in the primary, was advertising a separate Cinco de Mayo-themed campaign event at Xicha Brewing alongside Dan Farrington, a Republican running to represent Oregon’s 17th House District. The event has been moved to a nearby location.
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Oregon group tasked with creating new transportation solution meets for first time
Transportation experts are working on a new package ahead of the 2027 legislative session to address funding for the road maintenance backlog.
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How incarcerated Oregon youth are helping restore native plants and forests
In Tillamook and rural Oregon City, incarcerated youth play an essential role filling jobs to help restore ecosystems.