HB 3945
Limits duties of the Oregon Government Ethics Commission in conducting investigations, making findings and imposing penalties regarding violations of quorum requirements in public meetings law to intentional violations.
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill modifies the duties and membership of the Oregon Government Ethics Commission (OGEC). It limits the OGEC’s ability to investigate and impose penalties for violations of quorum requirements in public meetings law to intentional violations. The bill also clarifies the use of electronic communication for meetings, establishes rules for local government officials voting on compensation, and increases the commission’s size and requires the appointment of attorneys. Additionally, it addresses issues related to legal expenses and conflicts of interest.
Key provisions
- Limits OGEC’s penalties for quorum violations to intentional acts.
- Clarifies when serial electronic written communication constitutes a meeting subject to public meetings law.
- Exempts legal expenses incurred by public officials and agencies for specified purposes.
- Permits local government officials to vote on official compensation.
- Increases the size of the OGEC to 11 members, including two practicing attorneys.
- Requires the Governor to appoint attorneys to the commission.
- Addresses the use of official positions to obtain financial gain or avoid financial detriment.
- Establishes procedures for filing complaints and investigating potential ethics violations.
Who is affected
- Oregon Government Ethics Commission
- Public officials
- Members of governing bodies
- Local government officials
- Oregon residents
Notable changes
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