Shaanth Nanguneri - Oregon Capital Chronicle
Shaanth Kodialam Nanguneri is a reporter based in Salem, Oregon covering Gov. Tina Kotek and the Oregon Legislature. He grew up in the Bay Area, California and went on to study at UCLA, reporting for the Daily Bruin until graduating in March 2025. Previously, he was a reporting intern covering criminal justice and health for CalMatters in Sacramento, California. He is always eager to tell stories that illuminate how complex and intricate policies from state government can help shape the lives of everyday Oregonians.
Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek weighs standing order to protect Covid-19 vaccine pharmacy access
The Oregon Board of Pharmacy says clearer guidelines from federal government may not be in place until mid-September.
Oregon House, Senate must convene during special session pause under state constitution
Democratic leadership in both chambers did not indicate plans for any legislation other than an awaited transportation package
‘Common sense’: federal appeals court upholds Oregon prescription drug transparency law
A 2018 law requiring pharmaceutical companies to report to the state the reasons for raising already expensive drug prices has been spared for now.
Republicans re-up plan to use road safety, climate money to bail out state transportation department
Oregon Republicans have a counter to Gov. Tina Kotek's transportation plan which would avoid raising taxes by redirecting existing money from pedestrian and bike safety pograms.
State analysis claimed surge in gun background checks. Oregon State Police disagree.
Data from state police suggests fewer Oregonians seeking background checks, but the complexity of cases flagged for a potential criminal record has stirred debate
Oregon unemployment rate creeps to 5% following post-Covid recovery
Oregon is losing jobs in health care, professional services and manufacturing, while adding jobs in construction and transportation.
Discrimination policy for Oregon youth grants may only restrict funded work, appeals court rules
The Oregon Department of Education is still reviewing a recent court ruling in favor of a Medford-based Christian youth mentorship program, leaving a 2022 policy in limbo.
Grants Pass to provide 150 camping spaces, $60k in services after disability rights suit
Grants Pass previously made headlines for the U.S. Supreme Court case allowing penalties for camping prohibited by local ordinances.
Number of children who died on Oregon’s abuse radar rises in 2025, ending yearslong decline
More than 20 children whose families were already in touch with Oregon's Human Service Department have died so far this year as a result of suspected abuse.
‘A big step’: Record rate of Oregon mental health workers seek anti-suicide trainings
More than 80% of behavioral health workers are now getting trained in suicide prevention, but Oregon still has a higher than average suicide rate.