Oregon Senate President Remarks on Federal Shutdown

Statement by Senate President Peter Courtney:

“As the Federal government heads towards its 28th day of partial shut down, it is time for the Oregon Legislature to act. We cannot simply say it’s the federal government’s job, not our problem. It is our problem, our people. Parks, the Coast Guard, federal prison employees, TSA agents- these are everyday Oregonians trying to live their lives and provide for their families. We are going to have to get involved to help these folks out.

“Once again, Oregon will say ‘We’ll do it ourselves, we’ll go our own way. It’s the Oregon Way.’

“I’ve spoken with Co-Charis Steiner Hayward and Johnson, and have directed Legislative Fiscal to research the impacts this shutdown is having on Oregon and her people. We will work to determine how the Oregon Legislature can help these struggling families, and how we can ensure that services are continued while we wait for Washington DC to find a solution.”