Oregon Governor Tina Kotek is calling on the Trump administration to withdraw a proposed federal rule that would change how billions of dollars in federal grants are distributed and managed. The state warns the proposal could inject politics into funding decisions, increase bureaucracy, and disrupt programs that support essential services across Oregon.
Concerns Over Funding Decisions
According to the governor’s office, Oregon relied on about $21.5 billion in federal grants in fiscal year 2025. Those funds support a wide range of services, including wildfire preparedness, disaster recovery, healthcare, housing, education, transportation, and food assistance. The proposed rule would give political appointees more authority to approve or cancel grants using vague standards, potentially creating uncertainty for state and local governments, tribes, nonprofits, and other organizations that depend on consistent funding.
Kotek is also asking federal officials to extend the public comment period by at least 90 days, saying more time is needed for states and stakeholders to fully evaluate the potential impacts. The full response from the State of Oregon is available through the governor’s office website.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
