Climate + Transportation: speak up or write in this week

The transportation budget is going to be a major focus of the 2025 legislative session, so Oregon’s Joint Committee on Transportation has been holding a “Transportation Roadshow” all summer. Since transportation accounts for 35% of Oregon’s greenhouse gas emissions, it’s crucial that legislators hear from us about making sure emissions reductions and climate and environmental justice concerns are included as they are considering how to allocate state funds.

Here’s where you come in:

The Joint Committee on Transportation is hosting a virtual public hearing as part of a statewide listening tour to gather input on major transportation issues. This is a key opportunity for us to advocate for a sustainable, equitable, and climate-friendly transportation system in Oregon, which also focuses on safety and sustainable funding (see the Move Oregon Forward coalition’s priorities, of which we are a member).

Your voice is critical in shaping the future of our state’s transportation policies, and we encourage everyone, especially those impacted by current infrastructure challenges, to participate. This hearing is a chance to raise concerns about transportation safety, accessibility, and environmental impact.

Event Details:

Sign up to share a verbal public comment during the virtual hearing this Wednesday, and/or submit your comment in writing.

Virtual public hearing:

• Register: must register 24 hours ahead (Sept 24 by 5pm) in order to verbally testify
• When: Wednesday, September 25, 5:00–7:00 pm (Virtual)

Written testimony:

• Submit Written Testimony: Email your written testimony to JCT.exhibits@oregonlegislature.gov by September 27, 5:00 p.m.

Why Your Testimony Matters:

State legislators are using these hearings to guide decisions on transportation funding and policies. By attending or submitting testimony, you can help ensure that future policies reflect the need for cleaner, more equitable transportation options that benefit all Oregonians, especially marginalized communities.

We particularly encourage testimony from those who:

• Are impacted by transportation emissions, air pollution, or unsafe infrastructure
• Belong to low-income, Black, or Indigenous communities, or communities of color
• Are unable to drive or own a car, or rely on public transit
• Are disabled or part of vulnerable populations affected by transportation issues

How to Prepare:

Your verbal testimony will be limited to 1-2 minutes (about 100-300 words). Focus on your personal experience and why sustainable transportation solutions are important to you and your community. For tips on crafting your testimony, visit the Move Oregon Forward coalition’s testimony guide.

Together, we can push for a transportation system that prioritizes community well-being and the health of our environment.

P.S.

The Move Oregon Forward coalition will be one of the policy priorities we’re supporting for the 2025 legislative session, so look forward to hear about more ways to support safe, equitable, and climate-friendly transportation solutions in the coming year!

 

Max Hanley, Climate Policy Assistant