WWP January 28, 2026 | e-News

A New Year and New Beginnings – This month, join us for a series of stories focused on reentry in the region…

New State Prosperity Bill –
Showing Support for Critical Investments

As part of the workforce system serving the Mid-Valley region, Willamette Workforce Partnership (WWP) recognizes that Oregon’s prosperity depends on its people. The Prosperity 10,000 Program has proven that when the state invests in jobs, it strengthens families, communities, and Oregon’s economy for the long term.

This initiative has already demonstrated measurable statewide impact and fiscal returns to include:

  • $35 million invested → $219 million in economic benefits, including $23 million in new tax revenue and $195 million in reduced social service costs — a 6x return on investment.
  • 9,285 Oregonians served through local workforce boards, including training, employment, and barrier-removal services.
  • 96% of participants represent women, people of color, veterans, rural residents, or individuals with disabilities — populations often underserved by traditional systems.
  • Participants are earning $22.68 per hour on average, exceeding Oregon’s self-sufficiency standard.

As the state funding for the Prosperity 10,000 Program expires June 30, 2026, without continued investment, Oregon risks losing a proven infrastructure that connects thousands of residents to quality jobs and strengthens our tax base.

A new bill, SB 1512, is being introduced during the Oregon Legislature’s short session to keep these critical programs alive. SB 1512 is asking for a

$15 million reinvestment in the Prosperity 10,000 Program during the 2026 legislative session, expanding the goals of P10k, strengthening the state’s workforce system, and continuing greater access to career coaching, skills training, wraparound supports, and paid work experiences.

Continued support will ensure Oregon remains competitive, equitable, and economically resilient. What can you do to help?

We invite you to upload your organization or business’s logo as a measure of support HERE, or visit Oregon Workforce Partnership’s website to find out more information. In addition, you may follow the links below to submit a formal letter of support.

Second Chances and Stronger Communities

Record expungement is the legal process of removing arrests, charges, or convictions from a person’s criminal record. Once a record is expunged in Oregon, it is sealed from public view, meaning that most employers, landlords, and licensing offices will no longer see it.

Who’s Eligible in Oregon?

Under Oregon law, many individuals with past criminal records are eligible to have their records expunged, depending on the type of offense and how long it’s been since their conviction. Typically, a person with non-violent offenses must have completed all parts of their sentence and have no new convictions, excluding motor vehicle violations, during the waiting period.

Many types of non-violent offenses are eligible for expungement, including:

  • Misdemeanors
  • Certain felony convictions
  • Dismissed charges or acquittals
  • Arrests where charges were never filed

What Does It Cost?

Passed in 2021, Senate Bill 397 reduced the cost of record expungement in Oregon by eliminating the court filing fee, which was a significant barrier to individuals who were seeking to set aside their records. Currently, applicants only pay a Background Check fee to the Oregon State Police. The cost is capped at the actual cost of the background check, which is around $33. Some individuals may choose to hire an attorney, though free or low-cost legal aid is often available.

Why It Matters for Job Seekers

Getting a record expunged can be life changing. It allows individuals who’ve been involved with the justice system to:

  • Apply for jobs without disclosing past convictions
  • Secure stable housing
  • Qualify for occupational licenses
  • Regain dignity and peace of mind

At WWP, we believe second chances make communities stronger. Expungement supports individuals in returning to work, providing for their families, and helping the economy thrive, key components of WWP’s mission.

If you or someone you know may be eligible for expungement, help is available. WWP is proud to fund Willamette Valley Clear Path, our region’s first expungement clinic, through a $100,000 grant from Oregon’s Prosperity 10,000 Program and Future Ready Oregon.

This groundbreaking clinic is hosted by our partners at Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency Reentry Services, with support from:

  • Public Defender of Marion County, Inc.
  • Willamette Law Public Defense Clinic
  • Oregon Department of Human Services
  • WorkSource Oregon
  • Cherriots