Portland committee reviews new legislative bills, takes positions on energy, climate, taxes and public health measures

The Portland Legislative and Nominating Committee reviewed a new-bills report on Feb. 12 and voted on a series of positions, including opposition to two bills that would roll back net energy billing, support for the governor—s climate storm-preparedness infrastructure bill, and support for a local option meals-and-lodging tax and additional funding weight for students experiencing homelessness.

The committee, called to order by Mayor Mark Dion, heard a city lobbying update from Kate Knox of Bernstein Sherr and discussed roughly two dozen bills flagged by staff and the city—s contract lobbying team. "We expect the supplemental budget discussion to continue in a hearty way today, on the floor," Kate Knox said as she opened the new-bills report, describing ongoing budget negotiations that are affecting the city—s legislative priorities.

The committee voted to oppose two bills described as repeals or rollbacks of net energy billing (identified in the discussion as LD 257 and LD 32). Councilor Kate Sykes moved to oppose the two bills and Councilor Grant seconded; committee members signaled unanimous support. City…