Smith Appointed to Transportation Committee

On Wednesday, it was announced that State Rep. Greg Smith (R-Heppner) has been appointed as a member of the long-awaited Joint Committee on Transportation Preservation and Modernization, which is tasked with the development of a major transportation package for the 2017 Legislative Session.

On Wednesday, both the Speaker of the House Tina Kotek (D-N/NE Portland) and Senate President Peter Courtney (D-Salem) announced the creation of the 14-member committee. The committee’s anticipated transportation package, which is declared by both Republican and Democrat legislators as a top priority, is expected to make significant investments in Oregon’s highways, bridges, ports, and rail system. The goal of the investments will be to repair, modernize, and expand Oregon’s transportation infrastructure.

“I am thankful to have the ability to serve on this critical committee,” stated Representative Smith. “If done right, a strategic transportation package can invest in our state’s aging and crumbling infrastructure while driving economic growth and job creation in our ports, counties, and communities.”

Smith also stated he will be working with House leadership to help include Eastern Oregon communities on the list of public hearing locations.

“I applaud legislative leadership for their willingness to travel outside of Salem and Portland to have this important conversation,” said Smith. “This package has the potential to have a positive effect for all Oregonians, so all regions of the state should be invested and engaged.”

Representative Smith also serves on the Joint Ways and Means Committee, Co-Vice Chair; Joint Ways and Means Subcommittee on Capital Construction; Emergency Board; Small Business Growth Committee, Co-Chair; and the Governor’s Small Business Cabinet.