Environment

A new law signed by Gov. Bob Ferguson on Saturday toughens the punishment for littering and delays requirements for retailers to offer thicker bags for sale from Jan. 1, 2026 until 2028. 

A coalition of 15 states, including Oregon, is suing over President Donald Trump’s efforts to fast-track energy-related projects, saying the administration is bypassing environmental protection laws and threatening endangered species, critical habitat and cultural resources.

Prosecutors say that as news of the crime spread, the two men exchanged messages relishing the outrage and sadness they caused. The tree in northern England was believed to be about 200 years old.

Portland Councilor Mitch Green, District 4, is proposing using the Portland Clean Energy Fund’s reserve funds to create a three-year loan to help fill the city’s budget gaps.

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality’s popular Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate program is set to reopen on May 22.

The cartoonish-looking salamanders have faced an uncertain future in the wild. But researchers hope that breeding axolotls in captivity and releasing them in the wild can help their numbers.

The outlook for the 2025 wildfire season in Oregon and Washington looks a lot like 2024, with high temperatures and limited precipitation likely.

Rural communities are scrambling after the Trump administration canceled billions in disaster grants. Many were counting on the funds for infrastructure fixes meant to withstand future disasters.

The Justice Department has charged Amit Forlit with conspiracy to commit computer hacking, among other crimes.

Oregon’s Department of Emergency Management says the Trump administration’s decision to abruptly cancel a hazard mitigation grant program will “significantly impact communities” across the state.