House Speaker Tina Kotek has long been a leader in efforts to reduce harmful diesel pollution. In 2019, she worked closely with Neighbors for Clean Air to pass House Bill HB 2007, which requires older, diesel truck engines in the Portland Metro region to retrofit engines or transition to cleaner burning ones. This legislation, and Kotek’s leadership, has been one of the few bright spots in what is otherwise a disappointing lack of action on the part of state agencies.
Kotek took leadership again in 2020. After a devastating fire at the site of NW Metals caused millions in damages to the Cully neighborhood, forced evacuations, sent people to the emergency room and more, an injunction was placed on the company and heavy fines were issued. But rather than clean up its act and pay its fines, the company simply decided to pick up and move to a different site. The DEQ issued a new air permit despite heavy pressure against their action. In response, Kotek sponsored House Bill 3372 to ensure that the DEQ take into consideration a company’s history before issuing a new permit. While more work is needed to improve DEQ’s permitting process, this is a great step forward.
Our work to develop positive collaborations with leaders like Speaker Kotek will help ensure that all Oregonians will breathe cleaner air. To support this work, please go here!
