SALEM, Ore. — On Tuesday, the Oregon Legislature passed a bill that grant funding — albeit less than initially proposed — for summer learning programs.
The "crucial" bill was much anticipated by summer program leaders and lawmakers, who told KGW that they worried it would not pass during this year's short legislative session.
House Bill 4082 will provide $30 million in state funding for summer learning this year, as well as creates a work group to develop recommendations for future, sustainable long-term funding. The initial bill asked for $50 million in state funding.
This comes after a nationwide study of 30 states found Oregon is the only state where students saw a continued decrease in math and science scores from 2022 to 2023. Education experts had said the best way for Oregon students to get back on track is through increased tutoring and summer programs.
Sponsored by Rep. Susan McLain, a Hillsboro Democrat, the bill passed the Senate with a bipartisan 26-4 vote on Tuesday. On Monday, it passed the House, 53-4.
Gov. Tina Kotek issued a statement praising the bill's passage, saying in part, "Thanks to this funding, students all across Oregon will have more time to learn this summer. I hope legislative leadership can allocate additional funds before the session concludes so more students can get what they need."
The bill now heads to Kotek’s desk for her signature.
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