Category: US State of Oregon

Source: US State of Oregon

eople anywhere in Oregon who have been affected by wildfires or wildfire-related air quality can call 1-833-699-0554 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The statewide hotline is available to people experiencing any wildfire-related impact, including those who:

• Lost a home or property
• Evacuated and have ongoing needs
• Are sheltering in place and have wildfire-related needs
• Are affected by wildfire smoke or poor air quality
• Have another need or concern caused by a wildfire

“During this difficult wildfire season, Oregonians impacted by fires deserve immediate and reliable access to the help they need,” said Governor Tina Kotek. “That’s why we’ve established a dedicated, 24/7 hotline – so that no Oregonian has to navigate this wildfire season alone or wonder where to turn to for help.”

The hotline is staffed by 211info. If a call is not answered, callers can leave a message and will receive a return call within one business day.

This hotline does not provide emergency evacuation assistance or help people locate immediate shelter. People who are in immediate danger, have a medical emergency, or need emergency help evacuating should call 911. People looking for information about shelters or other immediate resources can call 2-1-1. For current 211info operating hours, visit 211info.org.

People can also enter their contact information and describe their wildfire-related needs using the Oregon Wildfire Assistance web form. An ODHS staff member will review the information and follow up with them.

“This wildfire season is already affecting a growing number of Oregon Tribes and communities,” said Ed Flick, Director, ODHS Office of Resilience and Emergency Management. “Wildfires can affect people in many ways, even when their homes have not burned. We want people to know there is one place they can call to share what they are experiencing and learn what resources may be available.”

In previous years the hotline has been used to connect people who lost homes in disasters with recovery support. This year, the Oregon Department of Human Services is expanding it to people experiencing a broader range of wildfire impacts.

ODHS has informally coordinated individual assistance following Oregon disasters since 2020. This year, Governor Tina Kotek directed ODHS to be ready to formally activate individual assistance when needed as the state prepares to establish a formal program in 2027 under House Bill 4121.

211info and ODHS will work with local communities to connect people with existing programs and local resources. If those resources are not enough to meet the level of need, ODHS will work with state leaders to identify additional support and funding options.

The hotline does not guarantee financial assistance or eligibility for a particular program. Staff will listen to each caller’s experience, document their needs and help identify available resources and next steps.

Hotline information

• Call: 1-833-699-0554
• Available: 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• Missed calls: Leave a message and your call will be returned within one business day
• Shelter and other immediate resource questions: call 211
• Emergencies or emergency evacuation help: call 911

Source: US State of Oregon

Source: US State of Oregon

f you live in one of 10 Oregon counties and lost food bought with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits because of recent fires and evacuations, you now have more time to ask for replacement benefits.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has extended the deadline for people whose food was lost or spoiled due to the wildfires in July.

Households in the counties listed below have until Aug. 14, to report food losses and request replacement SNAP benefits.

Counties included in the extended deadline:

• Crook
• Deschutes
• Gilliam
• Jackson
• Jefferson
• Sherman
• Umatilla
• Union
• Wasco
• Wheeler

What if I live in another county?

If you live outside these counties, the usual rule still applies.

You must report food losses within 10 days of the incident. ODHS may ask for proof.

How to request SNAP replacement benefits

You can request replacement benefits in any of these ways:

Once approved, replacement benefits are added to the household’s existing Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. The maximum replacement amount is the cost of the food lost, not to exceed the household’s normal monthly SNAP benefit.

When does the extended deadline end?

The extended deadline ends Aug. 14, 2026.

After that date, the 10-day reporting rule will apply again.

Resources to help meet basic needs

• Find a food pantry: Visit oregonfoodbank.org
• Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Call 1-855-673-2372 or visit adrcoforegon.org.
• Find more resources near you: Dial 211, text your zip code to 898-211, or visit 211info.org

Administered by ODHS, SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately 1 in 5 eligible, low-income families and individuals in Oregon, including many older adults and people with disabilities. Individuals in need can apply for benefits, including SNAP, child care, cash assistance and Medicaid. Learn more at benefits.oregon.gov

Source: US State of Oregon

oger Rand, IT Manager, Multnomah Circuit Court, Oregon Judicial Department was appointed as President-Elect of the National Association for Court Management (NACM) Board of Directors at the recent NACM Annual Conference. NACM is a national professional association for court leaders and administrators across the United States. His term began on July 16, 2026, and concludes July 22, 2027.

Roger is a member of the Multnomah Circuit Court management team in Portland, Oregon, where he has worked for 30 years. He manages an Information Technology team of 27 professionals in the four service areas of Desktop Support, Specialized IT Services, IT Design and Development, and Training and Data Analysis. Roger was appointed as a NACM representative to the Joint Technology Committee in 2018. In 2024, he was appointed as the NACM representative on the Global Advisory Committee. Roger, and the JTC Co-Chairs, with the support of NCSC, led a multi-association collaborative effort to produce the NACM AI Guide, Courting AI: Understanding Artificial Intelligence in Courts. He joined the NACM Board of Directors in 2021, served as the NACM Secretary/Treasurer in 2024, and was selected as the NACM Vice President in 2025, and now progresses to the President-Elect position for the 2026-2027 board year.

NACM’s Board oversees the association’s programs and budget and represents the interests of its membership between annual meetings. As President Elect, Roger will chair the NACM Conference Development Committee, including overseeing the 2027 midyear and annual conference planning.

“It is an honor to serve as President Elect of NACM, representing the Multnomah Circuit Court and the Oregon Judicial Department. In this role, I look forward to collaborating with the National Center for State Courts and the NACM Conference Development Committee to shape the 2027 midyear conference in La Jolla, California, and the annual conference in Tacoma, Washington. The overarching 2027 conference theme of collaboration reflects both the work we do in our court every day and the values that guide our profession nationwide.”

— Roger Rand, IT Manager, Multnomah Circuit Court, Oregon Judicial Department

“Our court is committed to constant improvement, and we find the tools, conferences, and educational resources offered by NACM to be incredibly valuable. I am enthusiastic about continuing to collaborate with NACM and I know the organization will benefit from Roger’s insight, energy, and professionalism in his new role as President Elect.”

— Barbara Marcille, Trial Court Administrator, Multnomah Circuit Court, Oregon Judicial Department

# # #

About the National Association for Court Management

The National Association for Court Management (NACM) is an inclusive member organization dedicated to developing court professionals as leaders, providing community, sharing information, and advocating on important court and justice system topics. NACM’s Board of Directors is composed of court professionals from jurisdictions across the country who volunteer their time to advance the organization’s mission. Learn more at www.nacmnet.org.

Source: US State of Oregon

s Oregon communities respond to widespread damage from the 2026 wildfires the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is urging residents to stay cautious and informed to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes, particularly those involving online fundraising platforms.

When disasters strike, Oregonians come together to support neighbors and communities. Unfortunately, scammers may try to exploit that generosity by creating fake fundraising campaigns or misrepresenting their intentions. Fraud attempts may come via phone calls, mail, email, text messages, or even in‑person visits. To help protect yourself and your donations, OEM offers the following guidance:

Double Check Your Charitable Donations

• Verify the campaign’s authenticity: Only donate to fundraisers created by people or organizations you know and trust. Look for detailed, transparent information about how funds will be used. You can verify charitable organizations on the Oregon Department of Justice Charitable Activities page.
• Check for secure websites: Ensure the fundraising platform uses a secure connection (“https://” and a padlock icon). Avoid clicking suspicious links shared by email or social media.
• Be cautious with personal information: Never share sensitive details like Social Security numbers or financial data with unverified individuals or groups.
• Monitor for identity theft: Check your credit report regularly for unfamiliar accounts or changes. If you suspect identity theft, file a complaint at IdentityTheft.gov and consider freezing your credit accounts.
• Report suspected fraud: If you believe a fundraising campaign or donation request is fraudulent, contact the Oregon Department of Justice Consumer Protection Hotline at 1‑877‑877‑9392 or visit OregonConsumer.gov.
• Protect your donations: Avoid cash. Use checks or credit cards to maintain a secure, trackable record. Sign up for DOJ Scam Alerts through the Oregon Department of Justice Scam Alert Network.

Avoid Contractor Scams During Wildfire Cleanup and Repairs

As residents begin debris removal, structural assessments, and home repairs, fraudulent contractors may target those seeking quick assistance. Keep these tips in mind:

• Research contractors thoroughly: Ensure the contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured. Check reviews and references through trusted sources such as the Oregon Construction Contractors Board.
• Get written estimates: Obtain multiple detailed, written estimates. Avoid contractors who demand large upfront payments or offer unusually low prices.
• Avoid high‑pressure sales tactics: Take time to review contracts and make informed decisions.
• Never pay in cash: Use checks or credit cards to maintain a paper trail and added security.
• Beware of door‑to‑door solicitations: Scammers may approach residents with unsolicited “fire recovery” offers. Always verify credentials and legitimacy.
• Public aid is free: There are no costs to apply for disaster assistance or participate in inspections.
• Verify government workers: Inspectors and officials will always carry identification and will never request or accept money.
• Trust your instincts: If something seems off, contact law enforcement or your local emergency management office to confirm the validity of claims.
• Follow trusted information sources: Monitor local media outlets and official state and county emergency management channels for accurate updates.

Key Fraud Prevention Reminders

Nonprofit Organizations Collecting Monetary Donations to Support Oregon Disaster Response

Financial gifts remain the most effective way to assist people affected by wildfires. They just take a bit more diligence. Monetary donations allow disaster response organizations to purchase exactly what is needed, when and where it is needed. People seeking trusted organizations currently involved in wildfire response can dial 211 or visit 211info.org.

All trusted state partners and agencies remain committed to supporting wildfire survivors and preventing the fraudulent activity that slows recovery. Together, we can protect our communities, ensure donations reach those who need them most, and safeguard survivors from fraud and identity theft.

For more information on wildfire recovery resources in your area, contact your local or Tribal Office of Emergency Management. If you have questions or concerns about donation requests you’ve received, contact your local law enforcement agency.

Source: US State of Oregon

oday, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality announced the Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program will reopen on Tuesday, Aug. 25 and remain open through Wednesday, Nov. 4. Based on strong demand and available funding, DEQ expects the program will be fully subscribed and will suspend rebates on Thursday, Nov. 5. Therefore, any vehicles purchased or leased before Aug. 25, 2026, or after Nov. 4, 2026 are not eligible to apply for the rebate. Under program rules, DEQ must suspend rebates once available funding is exhausted.

DEQ offers two rebates*:

• Standard Rebate (Available to all Oregon residents, businesses, non-profits and government agencies):
  • Eligible, new battery electric vehicle: $2,000
  • Eligible, new plug-in hybrid electric vehicle: $1,500
  • New zero-emissions ​motorcycle: $375
  • All vehicles must be on the Eligible Vehicle List.
• Charge Ahead Rebate (Available to low- and moderate-income households and non-profit, low-income service providers):
  • The Used Charge Ahead Rebate:
    • Eligible, used battery electric vehicle: $4,000 or no more than 30% of the vehicle price.
    • Eligible, used plug-in hybrid electric vehicle: $2,500, or no more than the total vehicle purchase price.
  • The New Charge Ahead Rebate:
    • Eligible, new battery electric vehicle: $7,500
    • Eligible, new plug-in hybrid electric vehicle: $5,000
  • All vehicles must be on the Eligible Vehicle List.

*You may only apply for a Standard or a Charge Ahead Rebate.

In May, the Environmental Quality Commission, DEQ’s policy and rulemaking board, adopted new rules adjusting the rebate amounts, limiting the number of rebates an individual may receive and clarifying processes and definitions. The changes help extend limited program funding, prioritize vehicles with greater emissions‑reduction benefits, respond to rising vehicle prices and enable more applicants to participate. When proposing the rule amendments, DEQ included feedback collected from a nearly six-week public comment period on how to keep the program workable and equitable.

“The Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program continues to be one of the most effective ways to help Oregon families and communities access cleaner transportation,” said DEQ Air Quality Transportation Strategies Section Manager Rachel Sakata. “By refining the program and updating rebate amounts, we’re ensuring Oregon’s transition to cleaner vehicles remains both stable and equitable by opening the door for more people to benefit from the environmental progress we’re making together.”

To determine Charge Ahead Rebate eligibility for individuals, check DEQ’s Charge Ahead Rebate: Income Eligibility web page. Charge Ahead Rebate applicants can now prequalify by completing the prequalification application to receive a voucher to be used at participating dealerships.

Applicants have six months from date of purchase or lease to apply for rebates. Once the program reopens, the fund balance can be tracked by visiting the Available Rebate Funding web page. If applications exceed available funding during the open period, then approved applicants will go on a waiting list, to be paid once DEQ receives its next financial allotment in early spring 2027.

The Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program receives at least $12 million annually, or 45% of the state’s Vehicle Privilege Tax. Electric vehicles purchased or leased before Aug. 25, 2026 or on or after Nov. 5 will not receive state rebates and will not be placed on a waiting list.

DEQ’s Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program web page has all the details. Please visit the EV Rebate Contact web page to ask questions. You may register at OCVRP Sign Up to receive program updates by email.

Source: US State of Oregon

a>The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) will host its annual Veteran Benefit Expo, Oregon’s largest statewide veteran resource event, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28, at Douglas Hall at the Douglas County Fairgrounds in Roseburg.

Presented by the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs in partnership with the Oregon Lottery, the Veteran Benefit Expo brings together dozens of federal, state, county, Tribal, nonprofit, educational and community organizations to connect veterans, service members and their families with the benefits, services and opportunities they have earned through their service.

Participating organizations, service providers and veteran benefit and resource experts will be on hand to provide information and direct assistance across a wide range of topics, including VA health care, disability claims, housing, employment, education, long-term care, mental health, recreation, emergency assistance and more. The event will also feature a dedicated Veterans Job Fair connecting attendees with employers and workforce development partners.

“Our Veteran Benefit Expo is designed to be the one-stop shop for all veteran-related benefits and services,” said Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels, director of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs. “Whether someone recently left military service or served decades ago, we want every veteran and family member who walks through our doors to leave with awareness of veteran benefits they have earned, the resources available in their local communities, new opportunities and the knowledge that they are not alone.”

The Expo is free and open to the public.

Since its launch in 2015, the Veteran Benefit Expo has grown into ODVA’s signature outreach event, traveling to communities across Oregon to improve access to earned benefits and local resources while helping strengthen connections between veterans and the organizations that serve them.

The Oregon Lottery returns as the Expo’s presenting partner. Since Oregon voters overwhelmingly approved Measure 96 in 2016, allocating 1.5% of net Lottery proceeds to veterans’ services in the state, Lottery funding has expanded programs and services that improve the lives of Oregon veterans and their families throughout the state.

“Since voters directed a portion of our revenue to services for Oregon veterans, the Lottery has delivered more than $184 million,” noted Lottery Director Mike Wells. “Events like the Veteran Benefit Expo help connect veterans with the benefits they’ve earned, and we’re honored to play a role in promoting those important resources.”

Organizations interested in exhibiting at the Veteran Benefit Expo may register through Aug. 10. There is no cost to participate, though space is limited. Additional information about the event, including exhibitor registration and event details, is available at expo.oregondva.com.

Source: US State of Oregon

irefighters took advantage of moderated fire behavior overnight to build direct control lines on two major wildfires in central Oregon. While light rain provided some relief, the Oregon State Fire Marshal and the Oregon Department of Forestry remain focused on defending homes as a drying period with sustained winds is expected to return this weekend.

The Akawa Butte Fire near Sisters is estimated at 26,144 acres and is three percent contained. Overnight, crews successfully built direct control lines and installed hose systems in the southern portion of the fire near Indian Ford and Wilt roads. The fire roared Wednesday afternoon as thunderstorms swept across the region. The storms brought with them some rain, which helped firefighters as they worked into the late evening and overnight.

Thursday, the 986 personnel assigned to the incident are working to establish a continuous control line around the fire’s perimeter. Structural task forces are focused on point protection and removing debris from around homes to prepare for forecasted wind shifts. Because of the fire’s proximity to residential areas, Central Electric Cooperative has deenergized power to homes on Stevens Canyon Road, Pine Glen Road, and areas north of Indian Ford Road.

An in-person community meeting is scheduled for tonight, Thursday, July 23, at 6:30 p.m. at the Sisters High School Auditorium.

Near Prineville, the Brewer Fire has grown to 32,707 acres and is 5% contained. The neighboring Box Springs Fire is estimated at 15,203 acres with 0% containment and is showing increased activity as it nears a potential merger with the Crosswhite Fire to the east.

Extreme fire behavior on Wednesday challenged crews, but firefighters were able to maintain and extend lines on the southern and eastern edges of the Brewer Fire. The Oregon State Fire Marshal structural task forces are actively engaged in defending homes along the south end of the blaze. Three task forces are currently working in the areas of Lofton Creek Road, Sealy Springs Road, and Grizzly Road to secure lines and assist wildland partners.

A community briefing for the Prineville area fires will be held Friday, July 24, at 6 p.m. at Carey Foster Hall at the Crook County Fairgrounds.

Safety and Information

Level 1, 2, and 3 evacuation notices remain in effect for portions of Deschutes, Jefferson, and Crook counties. For the most current information on road closures and travel impacts, visit www.tripcheck.com.

Multiple road closures are currently in place near the Akawa Butte Fire, including Middle View Road and Indian Ford Road. Officials remind the public that a Temporary Flight Restriction is in effect for both fire areas. The use of unauthorized drones is illegal and will immediately ground all firefighting aircraft.

Source: US State of Oregon

Rainfall from Wednesday evening’s thunderstorms helped reduce fire activity overnight, but strong winds earlier in the day pushed flames north and northwest of Mitchell. Crews were repositioned to provide direct protection to threatened homes during the surge. With dry conditions expected to continue, the Oregon State Fire Marshal Green Team is coordinating structure protection with other incident management teams as the nearby Box Springs Fire shows increased activity.

Crosswhite Fire The largest fire in the complex is now 19 percent contained. Firefighters are currently working to connect dozer and hand lines north of Cougar Mountain Road and are building secondary lines as the fire moves south toward Highway 26. Mop-up operations are underway along Highway 218 and Twickenham Road to secure sections where the fire’s progress has stopped.

Fire Status Updates

• Deep Canyon Fire: Firefighters achieved 100 percent containment on Wednesday. Most resources are now relocating to help with more active areas of the complex while a small crew remains to monitor the perimeter.
• Camel Hump Fire: This 6,545-acre fire remains at 0 percent containment. The Oregon State Fire Marshal task forces are actively preparing and mopping up near structures in the area, while wildland crews reinforce lines along Highway 207 to prevent the fire from spreading into steep terrain near Shoofly Creek.
• Parrish Fire: Containment stands at 43 percent. Crews are assessing heat levels today following yesterday’s rain and will continue mop-up work to strengthen the perimeter.

Safety and Closures

Level 1, 2, and 3 evacuation notices remain in effect for portions of Wheeler and Wasco counties. Those living in Wasco County can monitor specific updates through the Perimeter Maps dashboard.

Several public land closures are in place, including Bureau of Land Management lands along the John Day River from Service Creek to the Columbia River. The National Park Service has also closed the Clarno and Painted Hills units of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument.

A temporary flight restriction is active over the area. Officials remind the public that flying a drone near the fire is illegal and will immediately ground all firefighting aircraft.

Source: US State of Oregon

ecause of the rapid growth and immediate threat posed by the Hagen Fire, the Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked to provide additional resources to protect nearby homes and critical infrastructure. This marks the sixth time the act has been invoked in 2026, as Oregon continues to face a challenging fire season pushed by record-low snowpack and drier-than-normal fuel conditions.

The Oregon State Fire Marshal is mobilizing an incident management team and two structural task forces to the fire. These state resources will enter unified command with Northwest Team 7 to prioritize the protection of homes and critical infrastructure near the fire.

“We are facing not only challenging fire conditions but also low resource availability across the country,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “It is important now more than ever that Oregonians are wildfire aware and take actions like signing up for emergency alerts and preventing any new fires.”

As of Tuesday morning, the Hagen Fire is estimated at 5,685 acres and is located approximately nine miles southwest of Tollgate, Oregon. The fire burned actively overnight, creating spot fires that forced the withdrawal of crews working on the nearby Ninemile Fire. Firefighters are being challenged by steep, inaccessible terrain and temperatures expected to climb into triple digits this week.

The Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office, in coordination with the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, has issued evacuation notices. For the most recent information about evacuations please follow the local sheriff’s office.

Find information about the Hagen Fire and other fires in the Paradise Complex on the InciWeb page and on the official fire information Facebook page. Oregonians can sign up for emergency alerts at oralert.gov.