In recognition of National Police Week and in response to Oregon’s drug crisis, House Republicans attempted to withdraw four pieces of legislation to prioritize public safety and Measure 110 reform. Democratic committee chairs never advanced these bills in committee. The Democratic majority -- under the leadership of Majority Leader Julie Fahey -- voted each bill down on the floor, despite bipartisan support on three of the four votes.

A recent poll among Oregonians revealed that:

• 63% of respondents would support a tweak to Measure 110 to reinstate criminal punishments for the possession of illegal drugs while continuing funding for drug addiction services.
• 65% of respondents felt that Measure 110 has made addition and overdoses in the State of Oregon worse.
• 63% of respondents felt that Measure 110 has worsened the homelessness crisis.

While none of the motions received the required 31 votes to withdraw a bill, three of the four bills had bipartisan support and split evenly in tied 30-30 votes.

• HJR 29 – Proposal for a constitutional amendment that would bring Oregon in line with all 49 other states requiring a unanimous verdict if not guilty, as well as a unanimous verdict if guilty. Motion to withdraw from Rules failed - Ayes, 25; Nays, 35.
• HB 2135 – Eliminates the current “catch and release” system which allows criminals to commit a crime, get arrested, get released, and then commit another crime after release. Motion to withdraw from Judiciary failed - Ayes, 30; Nays, 30.
• HB 3603 – Provides that in cases where a defendant is charged with a sexual offense or domestic violence, evidence of the defendant’s commission of prior sexual offenses or domestic violence is admissible. Motion to withdraw from Judiciary failed - Ayes, 30; Nays, 30.
• HB 2310 – Reestablishes criminal penalties for possession and distribution of street drugs, including fentanyl, that were stripped by Measure 110, while still supporting the rehabilitation funds that go towards expanding access to rehabilitation programs. Motion to withdraw from Judiciary failed - Ayes, 30; Nays, 30.

“HB 2310 would have done what most Oregonians are asking for. Not only did this body fail to meet the moment today, but I would like to point out that this bill was never even scheduled for a public hearing to gain the input of Oregonians. Do we not want to hear what they have to say? We must hold drug users accountable to prevent future tragedies,” said Representative Rick Lewis (R-Silverton), former Chief of Police for 28 years, on the House floor.

Just this week alone, it has been reported that:

• Portland overdose deaths have climbed nearly 50% this year.
• 8 overdose deaths were reported over the weekend in Portland by what is suspected to be fentanyl.
• Thousands of Portland residents are leaving the city as it grapples with the fentanyl crisis.
• Few drug offenders bother calling a treatment hotline to have their fines for possession waived.
  • Only 5 people in Multnomah County have taken up this offer.

Just yesterday, Washington lawmakers voted to keep drugs illegal. Today, Oregon House Democrats voted to keep drugs legal.


--Staff Reports

Post Date: 2023-05-18 06:24:59

Last Update: 2023-05-17 18:14:01

Representative Shelly Boshart Davis (R-Albany) has sent a letter to Governor Tina Kotek urging her administration to take executive action to waive and refund fines related to OR-OSHA’s COVID-19 rules. Representative Boshart Davis suggested that, with the exception of willful and egregious violations, these fines should be cleared to allow Oregon employers and the state to continue to recover from the pandemic and its impacts.

“I’ve talked to plenty of business owners who were doing their best to keep their employees and the public safe during the pandemic, but simply had a hard time keeping up with often changing rules and a complex regulatory landscape,” said Representative Boshart Davis. “The pandemic is over and OR-OSHA’s COVID-19 rules have been suspended. It only makes sense that these fines should be suspended and refunded as well.”

In her letter to Governor Kotek, Representative Boshart Davis referenced media reports suggesting outstanding fines total approximately $800,000. An estimated $100,000 has already been collected by OR-OSHA. Representative Boshart Davis said eliminating these fines would represent a gesture of good will between state government and the employer community and would also allow OR-OSHA regulators to focus their time and attention on keeping workplaces safe prospectively, rather than events that occurred in the past.

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“I think even state regulators would admit that the rollout of COVID-19 rules was often confusing, conflicting, and difficult to navigate for everyday Oregonians,” said Representative Boshart Davis. “The state does not need this money. Let’s accelerate our state’s recovery process by wiping out these fines and working together with the employer community to move our state forward. I urge Governor Kotek to get this done.”


--Staff Reports

Post Date: 2023-05-18 06:06:57

Last Update: 2023-05-17 18:05:57

The May Economic and Revenue Forecast has been released under a new, modernized model that -- according to Oregon Senate Leadership -- lacked explanation, but indicated record revenue. If accurate, the Personal Kicker for the 2023-2025 Biennium is up to an estimated $5.5 billion and the Corporate Kicker an estimated $1.8 billion.

House Republican Leader Vikki Breese-Iverson (R-Prineville) said, “This morning’s revenue forecast revealed a few things -- Oregon’s funding is secure for the time being, our workforce is slowly returning to pre-pandemic levels, and we expect the kicker to be rightfully returned into the hands of hardworking Oregonians. But while the State of Oregon is doing well, I want to ask my fellow Oregonians -- are you?”

“It should be no surprise that the revenue derived from Oregon’s Corporate Activity Tax is up, which also means Oregonians are paying more for everything as a result. Oregon is effectively incentivizing businesses not to come here, while family businesses are shutting down because the cost of doing business is simply too great.”

“Despite the detrimental impact of the CAT Tax on businesses, Democrats have shut down any potential conversation around tax cuts to reduce the size of government. House Republicans will continue to advocate for fiscal responsibility, a lower cost of living, and the viability of our business community.”

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“Oregon families are on track to receive the largest Kicker return they have ever received. Republicans trust Oregonians with their tax refund, their children, and their families. Meanwhile, Democrats want government to spend your money and parent your children,” said Senate Republican Leader Tim Knopp (R-Bend).

“Senate Democrats must come to the table in good faith, abandon their uncompromising, unlawful, unconstitutional agenda, and allow us to participate in floor sessions. Senate Republicans have been clear that we are willing to pass substantially bipartisan budgets and bills that comply with the law.”


--Staff Reports

Post Date: 2023-05-17 16:27:38

Last Update: 2023-05-17 17:06:57

The City of Albany Oregon has announced that it is in partnership with the Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments (OCWCOG), and is hosting a public event to discuss Climate Friendly Areas (CFAs). Albany City and OCWCOG staff will present the proposed CFAs in a May 31st meeting and have a discussion on how they overlap with any vulnerable areas. They say that anti-displacement strategies will be discussed.

Albany Climate Friendly Areas – Public Event Wednesday, May 31st at 6pm City Hall (Council Chambers) 333 Broadalbin Street SW

An online survey will be available on the project website after the meeting for another opportunity to comment. Spanish interpretation and children’s activities will be provided.

The City of Albany is saying that this is to urge some residents to consider more housing and transportation choices, in order to meet Oregon’s adopted climate goals.

The Climate-Friendly and Equitable Communities state program says that the new rules require cities over 50,000 to reform parking standards, plan for mixed use “climate-friendly” areas where residents, workers, and visitors can meet most of their daily needs by walking, bicycling or riding transit, and create more equitable and accessible communities, especially for those "traditionally underserved and experiencing discrimination".

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The first phase of the process is to study and determine potential locations of climate-friendly areas by the end of 2023.

The second phase is to adopt development standards for these areas and amend the official zoning map as needed by the end of 2024.

The Climate Friendly Areas program says that "the process requires centering voices of underserved populations and working towards equitable outcomes. While some may see Climate Friendly Area designation as a benefit, others may fear gentrification-caused displacement. State standards require specific analysis of this issue and adoption of anti-displacement measures."

Those interested can contact Anne Catlin via email or via phone at (541)-917-7560.


--Bruce Armstrong

Post Date: 2023-05-17 09:16:50

Last Update: 2023-05-17 10:26:11

Weekend negotiations between Democrat and Republican leaders have failed to produce a legitimate agreement. Today, all Senate Republicans protested the Senate floor session in solidarity with the three members who reached 10 unexcused absences.

“I conveyed in discussions over the weekend that Senate Republicans will end their protest to pass substantially bipartisan budgets and bills that are lawful and constitutional and that will benefit all Oregonians,” said Senate Republican Leader Tim Knopp (R-Bend). “Democrats are instead using their slim majority to justify moving forward with an extreme, unlawful, and unconstitutional agenda. Democrat leadership offered no solutions to rectify the constitutional and legal dilemma we raised and are instead aiding and abetting a culture of corruption.”

“But as a general rule, the state should not be giving children an avenue for pulling away from parents – their key support system – in such a serious situation, especially since the state won’t be sticking around to help that child afterwards. While Democrats cast this bill as if it keeps government out of patients’ medical decisions, in reality, it helps keep parents out of their kids’ lives.” wrote the the Oregonian Editorial Board

“If Democrats thought we would facilitate an agenda that intentionally removes the rights of parents, they were seriously mistaken. Democrats have gone too far,” said Deputy Leader Daniel Bonham (R-The Dalles), who reached the 10-absence threshold.

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“Senate Republicans are united in defending Oregonians from the culture of corruption that has permeated Democrat politicians like former Secretary of State Shemia Fagan and Senate President Rob Wagner. We are simply asking for lawful bills, a bipartisan approach, and a transparent process. Let it be abundantly clear: this is just the beginning of the fight,” concluded Knopp.


--Staff Reports

Post Date: 2023-05-16 22:42:49

Last Update: 2023-05-16 22:58:43

In the wake of the resignation of Oregon Secretary of State Shemia Fagan, Governor Tina Kotek announced she is directing the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Com-mission to make state tax compliance a requirement for the agency to issue or renew cannabis retail licenses.

According to a statement by the Governor's office, this will impact approximately 823 licensees -- a disproportionately high percentage of licensees. Data from DOR shows that cannabis retailers have a higher non-compliance rate in Oregon for payment of taxes (9%) than other tax programs administered by the agency (3%). The OLCC has indicated that there are approximately 823 licensees that would need to obtain the tax compliance certificate in any given year.

At the center of the storm is the embattled cannabis dispensary, La Mota. Owners of the cannabis dispensary chain were major donors to prominent Democrat candidates while at the same time, allegedly facing millions of dollars in tax liens, nonpayment of rent and other bills, and dozens of lawsuits in recent years.

At Governor Kotek’s direction, the OLCC and Oregon Department of Revenue will implement a new mandate requiring applicants for cannabis retail licenses to provide OLCC proof of tax compliance as part of their application process. OLCC has existing statutory authority to make this change and will engage in administrative rulemaking to add this requirement.

Governor Kotek allegedly received over $60,000 from tax-troubled cannabis organizations. And it doesn't end with her. Willamette Week has reported that Democrat politicians including Senate President Rob Wagner (D-Lake Oswego) received campaign contributions from cannabis retail businesses and their owners in stacks of cash. Large cash contributions make it far more difficult to detect illegal activity because they lack a paper trail.

“I’m grateful to the current leadership at the OLCC and the Department of Revenue for working collaboratively to resolve this long-standing need for equivalent tax compliance across cannabis and liquor sectors,” Governor Kotek said. “This will help ensure that all businesses are operating under the same rules and not getting any competitive advantage if they haven’t paid their taxes.”

“While it may be technically legal, I don’t think it’s appropriate. It shows a severe lack of judgment to be taking large quantities of cash from owners of a company that is clearly troubled,” said Senate Republican Leader Tim Knopp (R-Bend). “If the last few weeks have shown us anything, it’s that the Democrat Party’s culture of corruption is alive and well. That is why I have drafted LC 4584, a bill limiting cash political contributions to $100. Campaign finance reform has long been a topic of discussion on all sides of the aisle. I have been consistent in my support for reasonable campaign finance limits.”

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“As wonderful as it is to have piles of cash, it is hard to trace, track or verify. That makes it a troublesome component in a state where there are already no state limits on campaign finance contributions,” said The Bend Bulletin Editorial Board.

“This is another prime example of why we need a bicameral, bipartisan Joint Committee on Oversight and Accountability. Corruption, wherever it hides, should be rooted out so Oregonians can begin to rebuild trust in their elected leaders,” added Knopp.

Oregon law permits ensuring tax compliance before the issuance of some licenses, contracts, employment, and appointments can be finalized. OLCC will work to add an additional tax compliance tool to its application and renewal process for cannabis retailers by requiring licensees or applicants to provide OLCC with a tax compliance certificate from DOR.

“We want to help people comply with Oregon’s tax laws,” said Betsy Imholt, Oregon Department of Revenue Director, “This is one more opportunity to connect with taxpayers to ensure their taxes are paid. It is good for both Oregon and for the taxpayer.” Several agencies already partner with DOR to confirm that a person is in tax compliance before the issuance of a license, execution of a contract, or appointment to a board or commission.

“Oregon’s cannabis industry is important to the state’s economy, and the sales tax it generates is vital to the state’s budget,” said Craig Prins, OLCC Interim Executive Director. “That’s why it’s critically important for us to get this group of licensees into compliance and paying their fair share.”

This change at OLCC is the first step to expanding and standardizing tax compliance requirements across state government. In addition to evaluating the need for any statutory or administrative changes, DOR will evaluate ways to embed equity into enforcement and compliance, such as the use of payment plans to be brought into compliance, and through automating the certification process to meet the increased demand for compliance certifications.


--Staff Reports

Post Date: 2023-05-16 21:37:25

Last Update: 2023-05-17 22:33:42

In one year, Clackamas County has seen a 31% decrease in homelessness, according to the just-released annual Point in Time count of people experiencing homelessness.

“Let’s savor this for a moment,” said Board of County Commissioners Chair Tootie Smith in a commission meeting on May 9. “I’m so thankful to our staff doing the extraordinary work to get us to this place; and we want to keep going. This Board is dedicated to staffing addiction treatment and mental health options, and we’ll put our resources behind these efforts. We also need to get rent assistance out there before people lose their housing."

The full Board joined Chair Smith in celebrating the headway on addressing homelessness, commending the county’s partners for their dedication, and committing to continued action. The commission praised county staff and partners for serving over 6,500 people in 2022 through homeless prevention and housing programs, while recognizing the county must remain dedicated to doing the work to end homelessness.

Deputy Director of Housing and Community Development Vahid Brown agreed that 410 people experiencing homelessness in the county is still too many.

“We’re making a significant difference in one of the most difficult problems,” Brown said. “It means that what we’re doing is working. This comes down to the dedication of staff, our private and nonprofit community partners, and law enforcement. We’re making a difference for hundreds of households of extremely vulnerable people and for the wider community that cares deeply about this problem. We are literally saving lives."

Brown touted the effectiveness of the county’s Built for Zero initiative, in which outreach workers track people experiencing homelessness by name, build trust with people and connect them with housing.

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“Built for Zero allows us to track inflows and outflows to and from homelessness," Brown said. "The number of people exiting homelessness needs to be greater than the number entering, and if it is, we will continue to be on the right track. And we need a robust suite of tools to help people exit, including addiction and recovery services.”

Brown discussed multiple types of outreach that county workers engage in, including behavioral health drug and alcohol counselors who do outreach alongside law enforcement through the LEAD program, as well as medically-focused outreach in coordination with Providence Health.

For more information, check out the county’s report on the 2023 Point-In-Time homeless count and the Board of County Commissioners’ full discussion of the report.

The Clackamas County Board of County Commissioners is made up of five county residents who are elected to four-year terms. Tootie Smith is the Chair of the Board.


--Bruce Armstrong

Post Date: 2023-05-16 19:31:53

Last Update: 2023-05-16 19:46:53

Oregon State Senator Lynn P. Findley (Republican SD-30) has released a statement concerning the walkout protest in the Oregon Senate. It reads as follows:

Dear constituents,

I want to update you to explain why I have joined my fellow Republican and Independent Senators in denying quorum. Oregon is facing an accountability crisis. By denying quorum we are stopping the Senate Democrats from willfully ignoring the rules and passing bills unlawfully.

Senate Republicans recently noticed that the Senate is not complying with the Oregon Constitution, Senate Rules, and statue (OR Const. Art. IV §21, SR 13.02(5), and ORS 171.134). The law clearly states that bill summaries must score a minimum of 60 on the Flesch readability scale. In other words, bill summaries should be written at an eighth or ninth grade reading level. Almost all bill summaries fail this standard. This law is important for transparency and accessibility.

On May 1, we raised this issue on the Senate floor. President Wagner consulted Legislative Counsel. Then he ruled that bills complied with the law. Despite the fact the bill summaries scored below 60 on the Flesch scale. Senate Democrats voted in support of this decision. The next morning President Wagner provided a legal opinion from Legislative Counsel which claimed:

• Only the legislature can judge compliance with the readability law.
• The Oregon Supreme Court said (City of Damascus v. State by and through Brown) that bills are valid even if they don’t comply with the readability law.
• Precedent is more important than statue in legislative process and the legislature has created the precedence of ignoring the readability law.
• The bill summaries can only be objected to at certain points in the process. By the time we vote on them it is too late to do anything.
• Republicans disagreed with the opinion. Regardless, we tried following it by objecting earlier in the process. Concerning House bills, President Wagner ruled that Senate rules and the readability law didn’t apply. Even though the bills were in the Senate and the readability law applies to both Senate and House bills. For one Senate bill, President Wagner promised it would not be introduced until he had consulted with Legislative Counsel. The following morning the same bill was back on the introduction list without explanation.

Let me be clear that Republicans objected to many bills over the readability law. Including bills with bipartisan support. We proposed sending bills back to committees so the summaries could be edited to comply with the readability law. Democrats voted against that solution.

Republicans used every procedural tool to make the Senate comply with the law. On May 3, the only option left was to deny quorum (20 members must be present for the Senate to conduct business). This was a necessary step to stop Democrats from passing bills unlawfully.

Also, Senator Weber joined others in taking the issue to court. President Wagner was defended by executive branch lawyers. They argued that the separation of powers blocked the courts from getting involved. Furthermore, they argued that the Oregon Constitution prevents legislators from civil proceedings during session. Ultimately, Judge David Leith chose not to intervene. Although he said: “If it was mine to decide, I would say that the summary doesn’t meet that standard” (VanderHart, OPB, 5/4/23). Democrats have incorrectly used this court case to justify their actions.

I am not a lawyer, but the following things are clear to me.

• Almost all bills are not complying with the readability law.
• The courts are refusing to take any action on this issue.
• If the Oregon Supreme Court is correct, then bills are valid even if passed unlawfully.
• The legislature must enforce the law on itself.
• The majority part gets to decide what is legal or not.
• This is morally and ethically wrong. Oregonians do not get to pick and choose what laws are enforced on themselves. If an agency realizes they have not been enforcing an old regulation on businesses, the regulation is not considered invalid.

As a Senator, I swore an oath to upload the laws and constitution of Oregon. My oath is sacred to me. I refuse to join a quorum of the Senate if our actions will trample on the rule of law.

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This is going on at a crucial time for Oregon. The Secretary of State recently resigned over ethical concerns. The Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission is embroiled in scandal. Now we are learning that the Senate is willfully violating the law. It seems that leadership in Oregon government feels they can do no wrong and are above the law. We are in the middle of an accountability crisis, and it is time that something is done about it.

There have been questions about Measure 113. The ballot measure was passed last year and bars legislators from seeking reelection if they have more than 10 excused absences during a session. My oath to uphold the constitution is more important to me than being reelected.

There have also been claims that Republicans don’t really care about the readability law and the real purpose of the walkout is to stop specific Democrat bills. For me, this is absolutely about the readability law. I imagine that once this issue is resolved, the majority party will continue to push through their bills. When that occurs, I will strongly oppose and discuss those bills on the floor.

My office has received comments asking if the reason for the walkout is because “Republicans are too dumb to read”. This is about making the lawmaking process accessible to Oregonians. I consistently hear from constituents that have trouble understanding proposed bills. Oregonians shouldn’t need a graduate degree to understand bill summaries.

It’s worth restating that almost all bills are not complying with the readability law. I have not confirmed if all my bills comply with the readability law. However, it is safe to assume that most of them do not. Legislators rely on the help of Legislative Counsel to draft bills and their summaries. I wrongly assumed that their work was done in full compliance with the law.

I’m sure that the legislature was more diligent in complying with the readability law when it was first implemented in 1979. Overtime, as staff and legislators changed, the law was probably forgotten about. Whatever the case, the law is still on the books and all bills should comply with it. Being absent from some floor sessions does not mean that I’m not working. I’m still attending my committees, making phone calls, answering emails, taking meetings, and working on policy. Last week I went home to take care of needs in my district. While I was there, I would have attended committee virtually. But President Wagner doesn’t allow it.

By denying quorum we have drawn attention to Democrats willfully violating the law. There are variety of ways we can either comply with the law or make changes to it if necessary. What is important me to me is that Senate leadership is held accountable.

It is a great honor to serve in the legislature. I don’t always agree with my colleagues across the aisle on policy. Yet, I respect them for their experiences and service. I’m optimistic that reason will prevail and soon we will come together to resolve this accountability crisis.

I’m grateful for the positive messages of support I have received from my constituents and Oregonians across the state.

All the best,

Lynn P. Findley

State Senator, Senate District 30

Oregon State Senate District 30 comprises of all of Baker, Grant, Harney, Jefferson, Malheur, and Wheeler counties, as well as parts of Deschutes, Lake, and Wasco counties. The 30th district is the largest in the state.


--Staff Reports

Post Date: 2023-05-15 18:58:16

Last Update: 2023-05-15 19:24:04

It's a stand-off at the Oregon Capitol over parental rights, in regards to notifying parents about abortion and transgender treatments and procedures. The Oregon Senate Republicans have continued their protest of the concerning legislation that the Majority Democrats are trying to push through the state legislature.

HB 2002 has already passed through the Majority Democrat House Chamber. Republicans condemned the bill, calling it radical and dangerous.

The bill would prohibit health insurance plans from denying or even limiting coverage of irreversible sex-changing procedures and treatments. Under this law, parents would also not have the right to know whether their child is receiving these treatments.

Under this law, insurers must cover cosmetic medical procedures for those identifying as a different gender, such as tracheal shaving, hair electrolysis and facial feminization surgery.

Another Oregon law that HB 2002 alters is the decriminalization of the concealing the birth of an infant.

The removal of this basic law would set a dangerous precedent for society, a suggestion that an infant's life is not worth investigating.

The Northwest Observer asked legislators why this should be decriminalized, but have yet to receive a response from any of the Democrat legislators.

Representative Brian Stout (Republican-HD31) spoke about the illegality of the proposed legislature, saying that : "The rights of a parent as guardians of our children are not only a responsibility but it is a right of law. The primary holding of supreme court case, Troxel V. Granville stated, “There is a fundamental right under the Fourteenth Amendment for a parent to oversee the care, custody, and control of a child”."

Stout stated that, "All throughout our nation’s history we have established the precedent that minors do not have the same rights as a legal adult. A minor has been defined by an age number. You must be 18 to get married on your own. You must be 18 to vote. Only 18 years of age or more counts to be able to serve our military and you even must be 18 to buy a scratch off lottery ticket. Let us not forget to mention you must be 21 to use or consume alcohol or marijuana legally. Are these laws established because we all know or tend to think that minors make poor decisions? Possibly and most certainly. We have all made mistakes in our early years and when we made those mistakes, we typically learn from them. Let us not forget who was there to help correct our mistakes and help us grow through the experience, our parents."

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Stout says that the rights of a parent as guardians of our children are not only a responsibility but it is a right of law.

Stout also pointed out that "HR5 just passed the US House. It is the Parents Bill of Rights Act and it clearly outline parents’ rights and requires schools to notify parents of intent to change a child’s gender or pronouns, as well as issues related to mental and physical health on medical exams. So, while the rest of the country is working to preserve parents’ constitutional rights, we convene here today over a bill that destroys them at every level."

He continued in statement, "The contents of this bill and the language within sends a clear message to all Oregonians – a message that we as parents no longer matter in life changing decisions of our own children. Let me say it again another way. If this bill passes, we as parents are being told that we have no business being involved in or even knowing about the health and physical care of our children. Parents tend to know their own children best - not the government as a collective body, not a counselor, not a teacher, not a medical worker. Let us as parents not be blind as to the true intent of this bill before us. If there was ever a time to look up from your screens and listen to the truth and facts of what is in this bill, it is now. I stand here today with every parent in preserving their legal rights. I stand here today in opposition and defense of the most valuable and vulnerable, our children.

HB 2002 is currently scheduled for a reading on the Senate Floor, where the Republicans are protesting the extremist agenda, and they have refused to grant the Democrats quorum on the Senate floor.

The Republicans Senators are now putting their political careers on the line, as it is now punishable under Oregon law for the legislators to be absent from the legislative session for more than 10 unexcused days. Some observers have criticized this strategy, as the Democrats have employed the walkout technique themselves in years past, and this limits the ability of a minority caucus to negotiate legislation.


--Ben Fisher

Post Date: 2023-05-14 10:37:52

Last Update: 2023-05-15 09:07:31

Senator Cedric Hayden (R-Fall Creek) files religious discrimination complaints on sixth day of Oregon Senate walkout. Senator Hayden, aka Pastor Hayden is an occasional preacher and member of the Seventh Day Adventist, which meets for worship on Saturdays.

Senate President Rob Wagner (D-Lake Oswego) denied Hayden’s request to be absent for church on Saturday where he was scheduled to preach, as well as requests to be off the next seven Saturdays of the legislative session for “duties scheduled as elder of my church.”

“Other Senate absences have been excused, absences unrelated to religious reasons,” Hayden wrote in his complaint to the bureau. Hayden also complained he was denied Sunday off to take care of his disabled daughter, a request that was “flatly denied.”

Hayden noted, “Meanwhile, other legislators have been treated like employees and ‘excused’ from floor sessions by Wagner for apparent medical reasons.”

His complaint to the Bureau of Labor and Industries and to the Legislative Equity Office claims President Rob Wagner violated his religious freedom by denying his requests to be excused to attend a church service on Saturday. Wagner denied the request without any written explanation. Hayden has previously been granted Saturday absences throughout his legislative career.

Hayden wrote, “The receipt did not indicate the rationale for being denied the fundamental right to attend and lead the worship services of my church as Saturday is my known day of faith. Notice was given by my staff twice earlier in April that it is my practice that, absent an emergent need to be away from my church duties on a Saturday, my faith is a sincerely held religious belief, and my attendance of worship and time off for such is a valid reason for an excused absence.”

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The walkout is a protest over the lack of following rules, laws and the constitution. Wagner’s spokesman, Connor Radnovich told Oregon Capital Chronicle that the First Amendment doesn’t hold weight in a walkout. “This isn’t about religion, this is about this being a walkout. If we were able to get the work done on Wednesday and Thursday and Friday, we would not have to be here on Saturday.”

Is Senate President Wagner using Measure 113 as an excuse to break the law? Oregon Constitution Article IV, Section 15. Punishment and expulsion of members. Either house may punish its members for disorderly behavior, and may with the concurrence of two thirds, expel a member; but not a second time for the same cause. Failure to attend, without permission or excuse, ten or more legislative floor sessions called to transact business during a regular or special legislative session shall be deemed disorderly behavior and shall disqualify the member from holding office as a Senator or Representative for the term following the election after the member’s current term is completed.

The requirement of “permission or excuse” is one or the other. One is aimed at permission from legislative authority. But the other seems self regulation by the person. An “excuse” option is the legislator’s reason or justification for the absence that doesn’t need preauthorization, just grounds for the absences. Certainly a constitutional religious right would be justification needing no authorization. Perhaps challenging illegal procedures is also justification for absences needing no authorization.


--Donna Bleiler

Post Date: 2023-05-13 00:00:58

Last Update: 2023-05-13 00:18:40

In efforts to protect Bighorn Sheep and be compliant with the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area Comprehensive Management Plan, the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest executed Forest Order No. 06-16-04-23-01. The order places restrictions on domestic sheep and goats within the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area.

The order prohibits, “possessing, storing, or transporting any domestic sheep or goat,” within all Forest Service Lands within the Congressionally designated boundaries of the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area.

Shaun McKinney, Forest Supervisor for the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, explains the intention of the order in the Assessment of Need. “The intent of this order is to protect the health and viability of bighorn sheep, a Region 6 sensitive species, within their core habitat. Further, this order augments the science and conservation work from our partners and ensures significant investments to Bighorn Sheep are safeguarded.”

Jamie Ratliff, Wildlife Program Manager on the Wallowa-Whitman, explains that disease and parasite transmission from contact with domestic sheep and goats is a significant risk for bighorn sheep.

“The effects of domestic sheep and goat exposure on bighorn populations can take several forms including high mortality rates in lambs and chronic or sporadic adult mortality,” said Ratliff.

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Ratliff continues to explain that multiple bighorn sheep populations in the Hells Canyon (ID, OR, and WA) area have already experienced high rates of mortality due to pneumonia outbreaks caused by bacteria (Mycoplasma Ovipneumonia) which continues to have lingering effects. “Overall, contact between bighorn sheep and domestic sheep will limit bighorn numbers and distribution in areas where respiratory disease occurs,” said Ratliff.

Currently, pathogen transmission to bighorn sheep can only be controlled by maintaining separation between bighorn sheep and domestic sheep and/or goats.

Forest Order No. 06-16-04-23-01 is scheduled to remain in effect until May 1, 2026, unless rescinded sooner. For a full copy of this order, visit the Forest Orders website.


--Bruce Armstrong

Post Date: 2023-05-12 10:27:11

Last Update: 2023-05-12 11:43:56

In alignment with the federal COVID-19 public health emergency ending May 11, state health officials today announced the lifting of health-protective measures that helped reduce COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations and deaths, and expanded access to services during the pandemic.

The changes affect a wide range of programs and services. Some changes are effective May 11, and others will take effect in the coming weeks. Other changes put in place during the COVID-19 emergency will continue after the end of the federal emergency.

“These changes are an acknowledgement of the progress we’ve made over the last three-plus years,” said Dean Sidelinger, health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA. “However, we know COVID-19 will remain a part of our lives for years to come, so we need to continue taking steps that prevent its spread, such as staying up to date with vaccinations. My thoughts go out to those sick with COVID-19, mourning a loved one, or still suffering with symptoms following their acute infection.”

Highlights of the changes resulting from the ending of the federal public health emergency are as follows:

Vaccination requirements
Effective Thursday, May 11, workers in health care settings will no longer be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 under state rules, OHA announced today. A similar vaccination requirement for teachers and school staff in private and public education settings will lift June 17, the end of the last week of school, to support consistency in student instruction through this school year.

Exposure, isolation guidance
A five-day period of isolation for those infected with COVID-19 also will no longer be recommended for the general population, including people in K-12 education settings. Oregon public health officials believe widespread population immunity due to vaccination and repeated infections means many COVID-19 infections are now likely asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic, and the five-day isolation period is doing little to reduce transmission.

Instead, officials say, the recommendation for the general population will be to stay home until fever free for 24 hours and symptoms are improving; avoid contact with individuals at increased risk for severe disease, including older adults and those with underlying medical conditions; and consider masking for 10 days.

School testing
Diagnostic testing resources for students and staff with symptoms or exposure to COVID-19 in schools will remain available through July 31, 2024. iHealth self-tests will remain available for K-12 schools to request and distribute to their school communities until current stock is depleted. Weekly opt-in “screening” testing for K-12 students and staff without COVID-19 symptoms will end July 31 as funding for the effort wraps up.

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

The endings of the vaccination, isolation and some testing measures are among a spate of impending changes over the coming weeks as Oregon, and the nation, continue the long, careful transition out of the pandemic. A number of “flexibilities” put in place during the pandemic will remain in effect.

The following are among the COVID-era activities and requirements that will continue after May 11:

• An extension of a 90-day “reasonable opportunity period” for non-citizens to verify citizenship or immigration status to 180 days so they can enroll in Oregon Health Plan.
• A requirement that OHP providers, including coordinated care organizations, continue to cover COVID-19 vaccinations and treatment without cost sharing, and that commercial health insurers cover vaccinations without cost sharing. Oregon vaccinations are covered at all providers.
• A requirement that Oregon health care providers be reimbursed for language interpreter services (spoken or signed) provided during an office visit.
• A requirement that OHP providers offer access to telehealth services.
• In addition, state officials are currently implementing previously announced changes in access to Medicaid coverage and other human services programs administered by the state and federal governments.

The following are among many other changes taking effect May 11:

COVID-19 reporting

• A change in how OHA monitors COVID-19. Epidemiologists will transition to a more sustainable and effective model that focuses on measures that indicate transmission, and continue monitoring for severe outcomes, including hospitalizations and death. Case data, which is based on individual laboratory test reporting and is heavily biased, will be retired. The changes align with CDC recommendations and mirror how influenza is monitored.
• A change in how OHA reports COVID-19 data. Epidemiologists will streamline data reporting to a smaller number of dashboards updated weekly. Data visualizations will include graphs showing statewide percent positivity, wastewater levels and trends, distribution of variants, hospitalization rates and capacity, death counts, emergency department visit and vaccination trends. Dashboards with case counts and county data will be archived.

Health coverage, supports

• The end of extended health coverage, services and supports for people with disabilities and older adults, and extra food benefits that were provided during federal emergency. Continuous coverage for Medicaid also is ending. Oregon began a “redetermination” process April 1 to help people renew their OHP membership and other Medicaid benefits, and stay on the plan, and is encouraging members to keep mailing addresses, phone numbers and email addresses current to ensure they receive information about their benefits in the coming months.

--Staff Reports

Post Date: 2023-05-11 06:56:23

Last Update: 2023-05-17 22:21:48