The Association of Oregon Counties (AOC) Legislative Committee and steering committees will meet June 29 and 30 in Sisters, Ore. to consider and adopt AOC’s policy priority platform and the policy principles that will guide AOC’s advocacy in Oregon’s 2027-2028 legislative biennium.
AOC’s priority policy items represent pressing issues with a strong nexus to county budgets, services, and governance that unite all Oregon counties.
Since the Legislature adjourned sine die in March, AOC steering committees have engaged in 24 hours of collective information gathering and dialogue to prepare for the priority-setting meetings. During these meetings, co-chairs invited various stakeholders, state agencies, affiliates, and subject matter experts to provide in-depth presentations and participate in Q&A sessions.
By adopting official positions on policy proposals, principles, and setting biennial priorities, the Legislative Committee directs the organization’s advocacy efforts.
Membership of the Legislative Committee includes the AOC Board of Directors, one additional member from each of the eight AOC districts, the co-chairs of each steering committee, one district attorney, and any additional members the board chooses to appoint. A 67% majority of members voting may take action on recommendations from the steering committees.
AOC steering committees analyze policy proposals, formulate policy solutions, discuss best practices, and advise the Legislative Committee on policy positions, principles, and priorities. Steering committees are co-chaired by county commissioners appointed every year by the AOC president, with meetings open to all AOC members. Every AOC member present at a steering committee meeting can vote on action items and help shape AOC’s policy platform.
AOC steering committee recordings, agendas, and supplemental materials can be found on the AOC website within each policy portfolio:
- Governance, Revenue, and Economic Development
- Health and Human Services
- Natural Resources
- Public Safety and Veterans
- Transportation and Community Development
Contributed by: Mallorie Roberts | Legislative Affairs Director