Bynum's comprehensive plan includes 16 bills to support young Americans' future prospects

PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — Rep. Janelle Bynum of Oregon's fifth congressional district has announced a comprehensive K-30 agenda aimed at addressing the challenges faced by young Americans in education, employment, and housing.

She began the conference by addressing shooting and killing of a U.S. citizen in Minneapolis by a federal agent two days prior as a reflection of broader systemic issues.

"This tragedy and this terror, this is a policy choice by this administration," she said, emphasizing the need for change.

Announced at the West Linn Public Library, the package includes 16 bills, seven of which are bipartisan.

The agenda aims to ensure that graduates have access to good-paying jobs and can afford to buy homes without waiting decades.

"My work has always been a love letter to Oregon’s children," Bynum said. "We need to make sure that every child has access to a high-quality education that meets their needs; that when they graduate from school and do everything asked of them, there are good-paying jobs available; and that when they get one of those jobs, they don’t need to wait another 20 years to buy a home."

The agenda features six housing bills, five education bills, and five jobs-focused bills. Housing initiatives include the First-Time Home Buyers Match Act and the Accelerating Homebuilding Act, which aim to expand homeownership and streamline building processes.

Education proposals focus on rural teacher recruitment and mental health services, while job-related measures address workforce shortages and support for small businesses.

Daniel Dodd, a nursing student at Clackamas Community College, spoke at the event unveiling the agenda and expressed support for Bynum's initiative, highlighting the financial struggles faced by young people. "Programs like the one I'm attending... provide me with skills and experience that I need to get a stable, well-paying, and fulfilling career," Dodd said.

Bynum further discussed the importance of these initiatives, stating, "Today, we’re taking the first step in making that a reality. As I head back to D.C., I’ll be armed with the stories I heard today and I’ll continue fighting for young Oregonians and Americans."

Shelly Santa Cruz, a working parent from Aloha, shared her experiences of financial strain despite having a good job. "The cost of raising children has skyrocketed," she said, noting that childcare costs can rival rent payments.

Santa Cruz called for policies that make childcare affordable, wages livable, and housing attainable, emphasizing that these are necessary investments in the future.

Bynum said the agenda seeks to invest in rural schools, support teachers, cut red tape for small businesses, and revitalize rural economies. "If we want young people to believe in America's future, it's time for America to start believing in them," Bynum concluded.