One way Oregonians can mitigate climate change is by burning fewer fossil fuels. People know this. That's why EVs are booming. Yet Oregon's Treasury is investing our tax dollars in fossil fuel companies.

A proposed Treasury Transparency Bill (HB4115) mandates the Treasury publicly release information about all their holdings including climate risk assessments. Treasury is resisting this as another layer of oversight. That is no excuse not to know how Treasury has invested our tax funds, including PERS, on our behalf.

The Treasury invests $130 billion for Oregonians. HB4115 will give us a tool to ensure our State is investing in ways that match our State's needs and values. Transparency is essential to ensure our investments do not contribute to global warming.

It is irresponsible to invest our taxes in fossil fuel corporations, but that is exactly what they are doing. It also is not necessary for smart investing. Unfortunately, that is what Treasury is doing with our taxes. We must pass HB4115.

Eileen Fromer is a Portland native, climate activist, yogi, and gardener.

Anne Bryant is a chicken keeper, food bank volunteer, retired therapist and PERS recipient.

Both live in Southwest Portland.