Senate confirms governor’s appointments en bloc and approves new state forester
Loading...
Summary
The Oregon Senate confirmed the governor’s slate of appointments en bloc and separately confirmed KC Casey as state forester amid debate about the Department of Forestry’s budget and long-term financing.
The Oregon State Senate confirmed the governor’s appointments en bloc and approved KC Casey as the state forester during floor action.
Senator Jama moved the en bloc confirmation of dozens of appointments to state boards and commissions; the motion moved after a rules committee review and was adopted by roll call (recorded in the transcript as 27 ayes). "We are fortunate for their public service," Senator Jama said in urging confirmation.
Separately, Senator Golden moved to confirm KC Casey as state forester. Supporters pointed to Casey’s 25-plus years in public-sector forestry and national leadership roles; Senator Golden said the nomination had "very strong letters of endorsement" from conservation and industry groups. Senator Starr, while voting to confirm, said separating the nomination had successfully elevated concerns over the Oregon Department of Forestry’s finances and budget trajectory.
The Senate confirmed Casey by roll call (25 ayes; five nays recorded). Several senators used their time to underscore the department’s fiscal challenges and the need for long-term solutions that may include changes to timber revenue policy.
The confirmations concluded without amendments. The Senate then moved on to other calendar business.
