During a heated session of the Oregon House Committee on Rules on June 27, 2025, significant concerns were raised regarding House Bill 3,402, which has been met with strong opposition from local government officials. Steven Roberts, Washington County's Land Use and Transportation Director, articulated the county's disapproval, emphasizing that the bill undermines the established fifty-thirty-twenty revenue distribution from the State Highway Trust Fund. This change threatens funding for transit agencies, counties, and cities, which are already grappling with maintenance and modernization backlogs.

Roberts urged the legislature to amend HB 3,402 to include provisions for transit and local road maintenance, highlighting the interconnectedness of Oregon's transportation system. He called for a comprehensive transportation package that addresses the needs of urban, suburban, and rural areas alike.

Mark Linehan, a Portland resident and board member of iCloud, echoed these sentiments, criticizing the bill for prioritizing state jobs at the expense of local government positions. He pointed out that Portland's budget relied on expected state gas tax revenues, and the proposed changes would force the city to make sacrifices. Linehan also stressed the importance of maintaining local roads and supporting all forms of transportation, including biking and walking.

Both speakers urged the committee to reconsider the approach taken with HB 3,402 and to focus on a more equitable solution, such as HB 2025, which they believe could better serve the needs of all Oregonians. The discussions underscored a growing urgency for the legislature to find sustainable funding solutions that do not compromise local infrastructure and services.