As the Legislature today convenes for a month-long special session, Rep. Bill Kennemer said he will focus on helping families survive by putting Oregonians back to work.

“In addition to job creation and retention, my priorities will include helping the over

one in five Oregonians who can’t find a job, are working fewer hours or simply given up looking for work,” Rep. Kennemer said. “I’ll work hard to pass solutions that create family-wage jobs and help our small businesses succeed and retain their employees.”

“Over 130,000 private-sector jobs have been lost over the past year, so we must improve the business environment so that more employers will hire and locate here, especially in Clackamas County,” said Kennemer.

While serving on the House Health Care Committee, Rep. Kennemer will also focus on making health care more affordable and accessible by allowing individuals and families who purchase their own health insurance to deduct the costs of their premium from their overall tax liability. Holding state legislators and government more accountable through ethics, spending and budget reforms will also be a main concern for Rep Kennemer.

“My commitment to the citizens of Canby, Beavercreek, Oregon City and the surrounding areas is to work hard to address the state’s highest priorities: jobs, health care and government accountability while being available to listen to your concerns and represent your best interests,” Rep. Kennemer said.