Oregon Politics Live June 28th, 2026: Can Oregon Lower Its Costs? Minimum Wage, Business Reform & the Ross Island Algae Fix

Talking about recent news articles that highlight issues facing Oregon, and possible solutions and action steps.

News Roundup:

Aimed at the Right Target, But Out of Range

https://substack.com/@ericfruits/p-203714684 

Policy Recommendation: address structural cost issues, not just process issues

Rainmaking Rating: B

Oregon new minimum wages effective July 2026

https://www.oregonlive.com/business/2026/06/oregons-minimum-wage-rises-wednesday-but-the-pay-hike-reaches-a-smaller-share-of-the-workforce.html

Policy Recommendation: keep wages in line with inflation

Rainmaking Rating: B

Researchers say they have a solution for Willamette River algal bloom. What’s stopping it?

https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2026/06/26/researchers-say-they-have-a-solution-for-willamette-river-algal-bloom-whats-stopping-it/

Policy Recommendation: pay the fine, dig the trench

Rainmaking Rating: A