Breese-Iverson, Owens, and McLane all stand ready to support emergency funding for ODOT workers
By Griffin Beach on Monday, December 22nd, 2025 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
SALEM — Three Republican Oregon legislators are urging the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) to be ready to seek Emergency Board funding for the state’s roads during the winter.
A release from Rep. Mark Owens (R-Crane) cites rainstorms and years of deferred maintenance leading to worsening road issues including potholes, failing shoulders, damaged guardrails, and drainage problems. He along with Rep. Vikki Breese-Iverson (R-Prineville) and Sen. Mike McLane (R-Powell Butte) are warning that those conditions can become more dangerous without immediate action.
“Safe roads are basic infrastructure people rely on every day, especially in rural Oregon where state highways are lifelines,” said Owens in the release. “Without adequate funding, the state risks more accidents, vehicle damage, and higher long-term costs.”
Breese-Iverson pointed to the everyday safety impacts for Oregon families and communities. Noting that, “Winter driving is already challenging in many parts of the state,” she said. “Poorly maintained roads increase risks for families, school buses, and emergency responders and require ODOT to be ready to act quickly if funding falls short”
The legislators all said they appreciate the work that ODOT crews do every day, often in difficult and dangerous conditions. They say they stand ready to support an Emergency Board request to give those crews the resources they need.
