In a poignant moment at the Oregon Legislature's House Committee on Climate, Energy, and Environment meeting, young voices rose to address a pressing environmental concern. Lillian Harris, a student from Corvallis, stood before the committee, sharing her personal experiences living near the Coffin Butte Landfill. With sincerity and clarity, she urged lawmakers to implement better testing for methane leaks from landfills, emphasizing the impact of air quality on her and her peers' health.

"I want to be safe where I live and go to school," Lillian stated, highlighting the days when her mother restricts outdoor play due to poor air quality. Her heartfelt testimony resonated with committee members, who listened intently as she described the challenges of outdoor activities, including an upcoming school track meet and softball practices, all while worrying about the air they breathe.

The discussion took a serious turn as committee members, including Representative Osborne, acknowledged the irony of environmental issues being discussed while visible waste, such as styrofoam, was buried outside their office. The committee explored the alarming findings from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which reported numerous methane leaks at the landfill—60 identified in 2022 and an additional 41 in 2024. These leaks pose significant health risks, particularly for children, as Lillian pointed out.

As the meeting progressed, the urgency of addressing these leaks became clear. The committee members expressed their commitment to seeking further information and ensuring that the community's concerns are addressed. The testimony from Lillian and others underscored a growing demand for accountability and action regarding landfill emissions, reflecting a broader call for environmental justice in Oregon.

As the session concluded, the voices of the young advocates lingered in the air, a reminder of the importance of safeguarding their future. The committee's next steps will be crucial in determining how effectively they respond to these urgent environmental challenges, ensuring that communities like Lillian's can breathe easier and feel safe in their own backyards.