Dear Friend,

Even though Speaker Johnson sent the House of Representatives home two weeks early, I’ve still been working hard to deliver for Oregonians. This past month, I secured one million dollars for Oregon Tech, introduced legislation that would return thousands of acres of forest to the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, and launched a new bipartisan caucus to help power Oregon with clean energy.

Read on to find out what else we got done this September and how it affects you.

Cost of Living

What would you do with an extra $3,900 in your pocket? That's how much more the average Oregonian has paid for housing, gas, and groceries since Trump took office — thanks to his rising inflation, his reckless tariffs, and his illegal war in Iran.

Before Speaker Johnson sent us home, I reminded my colleagues on the House floor that Americans deserve leaders who are focused on helping folks get ahead. That's why I am working to end this war, reverse the tariffs, and pass policies that create a more affordable and secure Oregon.

Launching the Geothermal Caucus

Geothermal energy can provide affordable, reliable, and clean power that Oregon needs, and now we have a bipartisan caucus to champion it. This month, I launched the Congressional Geothermal Caucus to raise awareness about emerging geothermal technologies and the opportunities they create for economic growth, job creation, and grid reliability. This builds on House passage of my bipartisan Next-Generation Geothermal Research and Development Act, which invests in clean energy research, testing, and workforce development.

$1 Million to Oregon Tech

Investing in Oregon's students, research, and innovation creates opportunities for working people and strengthens our economy. I’m proud to announce that the Oregon Institute of Technology is officially receiving more than $1 million in funding I secured for its Quantum Devices and Computing Initiative. The investment will give students and researchers access to the equipment and training needed to build careers in this growing industry.

Righting Historic Wrongs

This September, I introduced the Grand Ronde Land Transfer Act alongside Senator Jeff Merkley to transfer 18,626 acres of federal land to the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde. For far too long, the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde has faced historic injustices that stripped them of their ancestral lands. This bill is a meaningful step toward righting those wrongs. By transferring these acres to the Tribe’s stewardship, we honor their deep connection to this land and their leadership in improving forest health, wildfire resilience, and community safety for all Oregonians.

Speaking Up for Public Lands

The Roadless Rule is a vital environmental safeguard that ensures the protection of almost 60 million acres of our nation’s most pristine forestlands, including about 2 million acres here in Oregon. Trump wants to repeal this rule, which would threaten the health of our communities and our environment.

In early September, I led a coalition of 164 Members of Congress demanding that the Trump Administration listen to the public and save our lands. I was pleased to announce that, days later, the Forest Service extended the public comment period, giving folks until October 6 to weigh in on this critical issue.

In addition, I previously introduced the Roadless Area Conservation Act to permanently enshrine the Roadless Rule into law. You can count on me to continue fighting for our public lands and against Trump’s reckless decision.

Two Reminders

Flu Season: Flu season is almost upon us, and getting vaccinated is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself, your family, and our community. If you are confused by changing federal guidelines, talk with your doctor and check out these resources from the Oregon Health Authority. Let’s keep Oregon healthy this fall!

Republican Cuts to SNAP: On October 1, another round of cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) went into effect. Republicans’ so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” slashed administrative funding, leaving states with fewer resources to process applications, determine eligibility, and ensure families receive their benefits. Moreover, these cuts come as Republicans make SNAP more difficult to access and exacerbate the cost-of-living crisis. If you need help with your benefits, visit the Oregon Department of Human Services website for information.

This Month’s Observances

This month, we also celebrated the contributions of Hispanic Americans and raised awareness around mental health and recovery.

Hispanic Heritage Month: Hispanic Heritage Month started on September 15 and runs through mid-October. The impact of our Latino communities cannot be confined to a single month. Just as that proud heritage endures year-round, so does my commitment to be an unwavering voice for Latinos — and all Oregonians — in Congress. The other week, I visited the Portland Immigrant Rights Coalition (PIRC) to support their efforts defending our communities and ensuring our immigrant neighbors get the due process and legal representation they deserve.

Suicide Prevention Month and National Recovery Month: Suicide Prevention Month and National Recovery Month are opportunities to raise awareness about suicide and addiction, as well as a call to action. As co-chair of the bipartisan Mental Health Caucus, I am fighting every day to strengthen the continuum of care, expand access to treatment, and protect services that folks depend on.

Some Celebrations Around the District

Some of my favorite moments this month came from spending time with neighbors across the district and celebrating the people and traditions that bring us together.

Oregon State Fair: I had a blast at the Oregon State Fair. From its incredible food to live music to exhibits showcasing our state’s history, creativity, and agricultural roots, the State Fair is a reminder of everything that makes Oregon and the Sixth District so special.

Women Leadership and Empowerment Summit: I was honored to speak at Portland’s inaugural Women Leadership and Empowerment Summit as part of the city’s Welcoming Week, an annual celebration of the contributions of immigrant and refugee communities.

Punx in the Park: I stopped by Punx in the Park, which brings live music, punk spirit, and a huge lineup of resources to Salem-area youth. It was great to see so many people come together to connect young folks with support in an environment where they feel comfortable.

Chuseok Festival: It was also an honor to join the Korean Society of Oregon in Beaverton this past weekend to celebrate Chuseok and the traditions, culture, and lasting contributions of Korean Americans.

Here to Help

If you have any comments or concerns, or need help with a federal agency, please remember my office is here to help! Call (503) 385-0906 or visit salinas.house.gov.

Be well,




Andrea Salinas
Member of Congress