By Salem Reporter
Tobacco tax would limit significant sales from Washingtonians, state economist says
New revenue generated from increasing Oregon’s tobacco tax would come with an additional decline in sales because Washington buyers would likely stop crossing the river to buy, economists said Wednesday during a legislative informational hearing. The proposal is for a…
AGENDA: Polk County Commission to consider community mediation funding
The Polk County Courthouse. (Courtesy of Janet Guzman/Polk County Itemizer-Observer) The Polk County Commission will consider a resolution that would fund community mediation services, according to its agenda. That is the lone item for the public portion of its Wednesday…
Oregon may make new move to limit money going to candidates
SALEM — Many political observers around Oregon were surprised late last October when the most prominent third-party candidate for governor dropped out of the race and endorsed Gov. Kate Brown for re-election. Patrick Starnes, nominee of the Independent Party of…
Thanks, Salem, for your favorable reviews of our work
When I asked for your reviews of our work so far, I was ready for anything. In this era, folks are pretty free with their opinions – and sharing them. As a relatively young enterprise, Salem Reporter is still feeling…
Witnesses say children need to be readied for life after big Oregon quake
SALEM — Oregon is earthquake country, and students across the state practice duck-and-cover drills just the same as they practice fire evacuations, learning to protect themselves in the event of a damaging quake. Now, some legislators and emergency management officials…
Legislators try to catch up with Oregon’s burgeoning marijuana market
State lawmakers are considering more than two dozen bills that could affect Oregonians who consume recreational and medical marijuana. Oregon voters approved legalizing recreational use of cannabis for adults 21 and older in 2014. Since then, legislators have been shoring…
Salem Reporter is 6 months old, and we want your review
Les Zaitz, CEO and editor of Salem Reporter. (David Zaitz Photography) About six months ago, Salem Reporter came to life in town and we haven’t caught our breath yet. We started in a time of tremendous uncertainty in the news…
Controversial vaccine bill passed out of committee, devastating those opposed
Two women embrace following the passage of a bill that would end nonmedical exemptions for required vaccines. Those in attendance were overwhelmingly opposed to the proposal. (Aubrey Wieber/Salem Reporter) A legislative proposal that would ban nonmedical exemptions for required vaccinations…
Courtney breaks medical leave, apologizes to those harassed at Capitol
Senate President Peter Courtney presides over a floor session on Thursday, March 14. (EO Media/Claire Withycombe) SALEM — More than a year after sexual harassment at the Capitol came into public view, Senate President Peter Courtney publicly apologized to victims…
Legislative basketball team brings out the silliness and competitive side of Oregon’s lawmakers
House members pose for a photo after the first round of games. (Aubrey Wieber/Salem Reporter) Oregon lawmakers left their partisanship on the bench Wednesday night, as representatives and senators laced up their old sneakers and threw on pinnies for a…