Lawmaker Mull Predatory Lending Practices
Oregon lawmakers are considering a bill aimed at cracking down on what supporters describe as predatory lending practices affecting thousands of residents each year. A new report from the Center for Responsible Lending focuses on lender OppFi, which charges interest rates of up to 195 percent on loans ranging from $500 to $5,000. The group’s executive vice president, Ellen Harnick, says those rates can trap borrowers in long-term debt, with interest payments matching the original loan within a year or two. The proposed legislation would require all lenders operating in Oregon to follow the state’s 36 percent interest cap, regardless of where they’re based. Similar legislation passed the House last year but stalled in the Senate.
FLOCK ALPR
The Florence City Council has voted to continue the use of the Flock Safety automatic license plate reader camera system. During its regular meeting on Monday, February 2, the council approved the decision in a 3-2 vote, following several weeks of public discussion and review. The vote allows the city to continue using the system while also monitoring any future state legislation related to ALPR cameras. The decision came after multiple public meetings where councilors reviewed written and verbal public comments, questioned city staff, and heard from representatives of Flock Safety. Florence has installed six ALPR cameras since April 2024, with the most recent added in January. Police say the system captures still images only, is used for serious public safety purposes such as stolen vehicles and missing persons, and is not intended for traffic or parking enforcement.
Gas Prices Spike
Drivers in Florence are seeing a sharp jump at the pumps, with gas prices up about 26 cents in less than a week. According to AAA Oregon, the increase follows a surge in crude oil prices, which climbed above $65 a barrel last week amid geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Iran, along with production disruptions caused by severe winter weather across much of the country. AAA’s Marie Dodds says prices are also rising seasonally, as refineries begin maintenance and the West Coast transitions to more expensive summer-blend gasoline. While oil prices have eased to start the week, Dodds says the seasonal low for 2026 has likely already passed. The current Oregon average stands at $3.48 a gallon.
City Resolution on ICE
The City of Florence says a newly adopted resolution on immigration does not change how local police operate, but instead reaffirms existing state law. City officials say Resolution Number 1, Series 2026, was passed in response to questions tied to recent national events. The resolution clarifies that the Florence Police Department does not enforce federal immigration laws and does not conduct routine immigration investigations. Under Oregon law, local law enforcement agencies are prohibited from using staff or resources to detain individuals solely for immigration status. City leaders say the resolution is intended to provide clarity and reassurance while reaffirming the city’s commitment to public safety and equal treatment.
