Deschutes County officials are gearing up for the 2026 legislative short session, with key discussions focusing on urgent county priorities and the evolving political landscape in Salem. During a recent Board of Commissioners meeting, strategic initiatives manager Jen Patterson and legislative liaison Doug Riggs outlined the county's preparation efforts for the session, which runs from February 2 to March 9, 2026.

Riggs highlighted the pressing need for a comprehensive transportation package, which faced significant hurdles in the previous session. Despite a narrow passage in the House, the Senate's inability to vote due to a member's illness has delayed further action. Riggs anticipates that transportation will remain a hot topic in the upcoming session, especially given the recent changes in party affiliations among legislators.

The meeting also addressed the state's budget challenges, with a reported $800 million downturn in revenue forecasts. Riggs noted that this could lead to a significant shortfall in the next biennium, prompting discussions about potential disconnects from the federal tax code to stabilize revenue.

Key legislative priorities identified by local representatives include behavioral health, community corrections, and children's psychiatric issues. Riggs emphasized the ongoing struggle to secure adequate funding for community corrections, which has not been fully supported by the state since 2006. Additionally, the need for facilities to address children's mental health crises remains critical, as many youths are currently placed in emergency rooms or out-of-state care due to a lack of local resources.

The meeting underscored the importance of collaboration among county departments and legislators to address these pressing issues. As the county prepares for the legislative session, officials are hopeful that proactive discussions will lead to meaningful solutions for the community's most urgent needs.