35 June 2024 Political Action & Elections In an effort toward advancing interests of Oregon’s forest sector, Associated Oregon Loggers endorsed a slate of state legislative candidates in the May 21st primary election. Endorsed candidates by AOL’s State Political Action Committee (OR-PAC) are committed to support business-friendly policies, including forest management, transportation, taxation, and employment. These endorsements not only highlight the critical role of the timber industry in Oregon’s economy, but they also emphasize the importance of having informed supporters within the state legislature. Importance of Forest Business Advocates in State Capitol Forestry is not just an industry; is the backbone of many rural communities across Oregon. The individuals working within this sector are not merely contractors, loggers or truckers; these operators are custodians of a legacy— stewards of the forest. Electing and informing good legislators is one of the tasks of AOL’s lobby team and Political Action Committee. Decisions made in the Oregon Capitol have profound implications on livelihoods of our member companies and health of our forests. It is, therefore, crucial to have elected officials who learn and understand the nuances of forest business, and who are can foster businesses necessary for sustainable forest management. Informing legislators about forest contract business is what your AOL lobby team does. Active forest management by business is essential for mitigating wildfire risks, managing forest ecosystem health, and ensuring economic viability of the timber industry. Legislative candidates who appreciate the scientific and economic aspects of forest business can formulate and drive legislation that helps business manage our forests in a way that is both environmentally and economically beneficial. Their lawmaking can also facilitate growth of small business by simplifying regulations, offering tax reliefs, among other advantages. Small Business Legislator Allies Many of our members, ranging from those in reforestation and road building to trucking and logging, operate small businesses that are significantly impacted by state laws and policies shaped by Oregon’s Legislature. Having legislator allies in the state legislature, who are committed to enacting business-friendly policies, ensures that forest small businesses can thrive. Pro-business policies are not just about reducing red tape; they also involve creating a supportive business setting that fosters innovation, easing operational challenges, and promoting economic growth within the forest sector. Supporting candidates who understand challenges faced by small business is vital for prosperity of the timber industry and its communities. Their presence in the legislature can lead to developing laws that directly benefit small businesses by making it easier to operate, invest in new technology, and sustainably expand operations. AOL-Endorsed Candidates in May AOL’s State PAC concentrates on key general election races and legislator support. Further PAC support efforts will continue through the summer and fall months ahead of the November 2024 general election. Below are candidate-legislators that Associated Oregon Loggers endorsed and/ or supported during the May primary season. AOL political action committee (OR-PAC) engages in primary election races only by limited means; rationed PAC support is offered only through formal endorsement alone or modest contributions having specific political objectives. The following individuals received State PAC support during the May primary season, through their strong commitment to our industry and its small businesses. District & Candidate-Legislator Name Senate SD 1 - David Brock Smith SD 2 - Christine Goodwin SD 9 - Fred Girod SD 12 - Bruce Starr SD 16 - Suzanne Weber SD 30 - Mike McLane House HD 22 - Tracy Cramer HD 31 - Darcey Edwards HD 32 - Cyrus Javadi HD 51 - Christine Drazan Election Spotlight Candidate Support in Oregon Primary Election ›By Amanda Sullivan-Astor, Forest Policy Manager Continued →
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