Oregon is preparing for another stretch of extreme summer heat, with the National Weather Service issuing an alert for high temperatures expected to range from 95 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit across much of the Willamette Valley and Portland area this weekend. Meteorologists note the rarity of extended heat events this late in August, with the possibility of high temperatures lasting up to five days—far longer than the typical two-day spikes. Counties including Multnomah are on standby, opening cooling centers and reminding listeners about ways to stay safe as temperatures approach record highs, according to Oregon Public Broadcasting.In government news, Oregon’s legislature has reached the midpoint of its 2025 session with transportation front and center. Governor Tina Kotek’s revised transportation funding bill is set for a critical hearing next Monday. If passed, listeners would see increases in gas taxes, vehicle fees, and a doubling of the payroll tax used for public transit. The bill also includes measures for more frequent auditing of the Department of Transportation, an attempt at greater accountability after budgeting mistakes and lagging infrastructure. Some Republican lawmakers voice concern over the timing and expense, arguing for more flexibility in existing agency spending rather than new taxes, as OPB reports.On the legal front, conversations around Oregon’s status as a sanctuary state continue. Governor Kotek responded to federal claims of obstruction in immigration enforcement, while the state’s Attorney General seeks legislative funds to support crime victims amid threats to withhold federal grants linked to sanctuary policies. The fallout from these federal-state tensions includes disruptions in services for survivors of sexual assault, highlighting the real-world impact of political decisions, reported by Jefferson Public Radio and KGW News.Oregon’s economy and labor market saw fresh changes in employment law this summer. Governor Kotek signed HB3187, prohibiting age-related questions in job applications, as well as SB951, which restricts the use of non-compete contracts, both set to take effect in January 2026. These changes, highlighted by Ogletree Deakins, reflect an effort to make the workforce more equitable and competitive.Community infrastructure projects continue, with the Beaverton High School rebuild advancing toward completion in 2026. Funded by a 2022 voter-approved bond, the new building is designed to remain operational after an earthquake and offers updated facilities across athletics, health, and academic programming. In Eugene, the 4J School District wrapped a major roof replacement project at Kelly Middle School, completed this summer as outlined by district officials.Looking ahead, forecasters are watching the Pacific for signs of an upcoming La Niña cycle, which could bring a much-needed wet and cool fall to help address Oregon’s persistent drought conditions and potentially affect transportation infrastructure with increased mudslides and winter storms later in the year. Governor Kotek’s transportation proposal faces its first public test next week, and school districts across the state are preparing for the return of students, backed by restored funding following a federal policy reversal earlier this summer.Thanks for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, check out quietplease dot ai.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.aiThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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