The Sound of Kindness
Dear Friend,
What does kindness sound like? It takes many different forms. It might sound like the scratch of a pen across a note to a friend. It might sound like the scrape of a spoon assembling a casserole to take to a neighbor who just had a new baby. It might sound like the encouraging words of a school cafeteria worker to the child who seems to be having a tough day.
During this season of our work in the legislature, we have the chance to develop new concepts to bring to the upcoming session and to follow up on legislation previously passed to ensure it is fully implemented. And we also have the opportunity to be out in the community, visiting with leaders and staff at community organizations, schools, and businesses to learn more about the issues facing our communities. Recently, I have had the chance to tour one of our state’s outstanding children’s hospitals, visit a local pest control company, a newly renovated medical clinic, and an elementary school. And what I have seen was a deep commitment to the people of our community, and to the service of others. That commitment to service is the sound of kindness in action – which we see in so many of our local healthcare providers, educators, housing providers, and business owners. They care about their neighbors, and I’m proud to be working alongside them – and you to be a part of that caring ethos.
As for policy, I am convening a workgroup to bring together healthcare providers and insurers to discuss strategies to overcome barriers to contract negotiations, so we can ensure access to continuity of care for every Oregonian. I’m also looking at recommendations from the Drug Transparency Program to make prescription drugs more affordable. My office is also working with members of the Environmental Caucus on bills related to the use of “forever chemicals,” which have been associated with higher rates of cancer.
I’m continuing to serve on the Oregon Hunger Task Force, the Governor’s Commission for Senior Services, and the Primary Care Strategies Task Force to address critical issues facing Oregonians. My next few weeks will be spent preparing for our legislative days in June, when we will hold informational committee hearings on many topics in healthcare, housing, labor, business, and other areas. And as a member of the Senate Finance and Revenue Committee, I am very interested in hearing from our State Economist on May 20th regarding his updated Revenue Forecast report.
Please stay in touch. I look forward to hearing from you. I am working hard on both proposed legislation and being out in the community to hear from you. Thank you for the opportunity to serve, and to listen for – and share – the sounds of kindness.
Warmest regards,
Deb
This campaign is powered by people who care deeply about our community and our future. If you believe in the work we’re doing, I hope you’ll consider making a contribution to help us keep moving forward—together.