Oregon's Office of Small Business Assistance seeks better agency collaboration for small businesses

The Oregon State Legislature's House Committee on Economic Development, Small Business, and Trade convened on April 28, 2025, to address critical issues affecting small businesses across the state. A significant focus of the meeting was the need for improved communication and collaboration among government agencies to better support small businesses navigating new regulations.

Mr. Lahain from the Office of Small Business Assistance highlighted the challenges faced by businesses due to a lack of coordination between agencies. He pointed out that recent changes, such as the styrofoam container ban implemented on January 1, have far-reaching impacts on various businesses, including food trucks and restaurants, which are not directly regulated by the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). This disconnect can lead to confusion and unintentional penalties for small business owners.

Lahain emphasized the importance of proactive measures, noting that the Oregon Health Authority took commendable steps by training their public health inspectors to recognize and address the styrofoam ban, despite it not being their program. This kind of inter-agency cooperation is what Lahain and the committee are advocating for, as it can significantly ease the burden on small businesses trying to comply with new regulations.

The committee also discussed the Office of Small Business Assistance's efforts to engage directly with communities across Oregon. Lahain shared that the office received over 6,000 phone calls last year, with a commitment to improving response times and case resolutions. Currently, they aim to close a higher percentage of cases within three business days, reflecting their dedication to enhancing customer service.

As small businesses continue to grow in Oregon, the committee's discussions underscore the necessity for state and local government agencies to work together effectively. By sharing timely updates and resources, they can help small businesses thrive and navigate the complexities of regulatory compliance. The call for stronger collaboration among agencies is a pivotal step toward fostering a more supportive environment for Oregon's small business community.