South Oregon News

Congressman Cliff Bentz, representing Oregon’s 2nd district, has been actively engaging with various stakeholders on important legislative matters. His recent tweets highlight discussions and legislative efforts focusing on rural schools, forest management, and water quality in Oregon.

On January 22, 2025, Congressman Bentz expressed gratitude to the Association of O&C Counties' President Tim Freeman and Vice President Derrick DeGroot for their meeting to discuss key issues. He emphasized the importance of reauthorizing Secure Rural Schools and addressing forest management through the Fix Our Forests Act. "Thank you to the Association of O&C Counties, President Tim Freeman and Vice President Derrick DeGroot for meeting with me to discuss the reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools and the importance of getting back in our forests with the Fix Our Forests Act."

Later that day, Bentz reported a conversation with Travis Joseph from the American Forest Resource Council (AFRC). The discussion centered around priorities such as the Conservation and Landscape Health Rule and O&C lands vital to Oregon communities. Bentz appreciated this exchange of ideas regarding conservation efforts. "Today, I spoke with Travis Joseph from the American Forest Resource Council (AFRC). I appreciated the discussion of the importance of the Conservation and Landscape Health Rule, O&C lands, and other priorities that are important to Oregon communities."

On January 23, 2025, Bentz announced his introduction of The Dalles Watershed Development Act in Congress. This bill aims to protect water quality for The Dalles by transferring land ownership to better manage future demands and ensure public safety. "Protecting the watershed for the city of The Dalles is essential to maintaining its water quality, meeting future demand, and ensuring public safety."