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Legislative Highlights
Legislative Highlights contains the latest news and information on activities at the Oregon Legislature that affect public education. It is published weekly during Oregon's legislative sessions. Subscribe to the OSBA General News email list to receive Legislative Highlights in your inbox.
Contact Legislative Services staff
Legislative Resources:
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Education advocates aren’t alarmed about $200 million veto of State School Fund money
Monday, June 21, 2021Although Gov. Kate Brown struck the money from the $9.3 billion bill, education advocates expect it to be restored in another budget bill.
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Education department budget contains full Measure 98, Student Investment Account funding
Monday, June 21, 2021The budget approved by an education subcommittee contains the majority of education spending outside the State School Fund.
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PERS bills rear their heads
Monday, June 21, 2021As the session nears its close, a few bills threaten to chip away at efforts to contain Public Employees Retirement System costs.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, June 21, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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Five questions with school board member Rep. Andrea Valderrama
Monday, June 14, 2021The David Douglas School Board Chair and freshman legislator brings a deep understanding of education concerns and experience working on policy issues.
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In historic first, Oregon House votes to expel Rep. Mike Nearman
Monday, June 14, 2021Legislators have passionately disagreed on the level of public access to the Capitol, but they came together to condemn Nearman’s reckless actions.
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Hearings emphasize importance of diversifying teacher workforce
Monday, June 14, 2021While the Senate considers legislation, an informational hearing in the House indicates the Legislature is not done with helping schools recruit and retain more teachers of color.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, June 14, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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Policy committees shut down, but money matters still percolating
Monday, June 7, 2021Statewide education funding continues to dominate discussions, but smaller bills loom large for the affected school districts.
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Now is the time for school board members to get in the action
Monday, June 7, 2021Legislators have passed an insufficient State School Fund, but there is still time to persuade them that our students deserve better.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, June 7, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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Much-improved bill creating school district equity committees moves forward
Tuesday, June 1, 2021Local school districts will have wide leeway in establishing community panels to support work that responds to underserved students’ needs.
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The end is in sight, but this is when legislative funny business happens
Tuesday, June 1, 2021Bills are stacking up in the committee that doles out the money, but education advocates have been working together for students’ interests.
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Legislative Briefs
Tuesday, June 1, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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Class-size bill amendments address OSBA, COSA equity concerns
Monday, May 24, 2021House Speaker Tina Kotek has proposed applying mandatory class-size bargaining rules only to Title I schools, acceptably narrowing the scope of a bill education advocates have opposed.
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Revenue forecast recasts State School Funding debate
Monday, May 24, 2021Oregon has extra money now and into the foreseeable future, leaving no good reason not to fully fund public schools.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, May 24, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, May 24, 2021Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Class size bill finding its way despite renewed focus on equity concerns
Monday, May 17, 2021Portland Public Schools’ experience shows how bargaining over class sizes leaves out the students who most have need of additional investment in their education.
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Weirder than usual weird week puts $9.3 billion as the number to work on
Monday, May 17, 2021The Legislature’s budget writers have put a stamp of approval on a $9.3 billion State School Fund, but education advocates are still fighting for full school funding.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, May 17, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, May 17, 2021Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Day of State School Fund reckoning approaches
Monday, May 10, 2021Education advocates should make their case now for an adequate State School Fund before legislators receive the economic forecast May 19.
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Every Student Belongs bill moving ahead
Monday, May 10, 2021Those districts that still have not adopted policies banning certain hate symbols can review sample wording from OSBA.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, May 10, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, May 17, 2021Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Teacher diversity bill raises layoff concerns
Monday, May 3, 2021The Legislature’s work is mostly stuck in the mud again, though, as Senate Republicans balk at Gov. Kate Brown’s COVID-19 declarations.
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Guest column: School board voice helps the workforce diversity conversation
Monday, May 3, 2021The Educator Advancement Council has increased understanding of systemic needs by bringing in a wide spectrum of education viewpoints, writes Bill Graupp.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, May 3, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, May 3, 2021Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Budget writing committee shuts out school board members
Monday, April 26, 2021OSBA has protested vigorously against a decision not to take testimony from elected officials during a series of public hearings on the state budget.
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Early learning overlaps K-12 education mission
Monday, April 26, 2021The Legislature is increasingly studying how support for families and the youngest children can increase academic success.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, April 26, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, April 26, 2021Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Legislators strike deal to speed up floor votes as policy committees slow down
Monday, April 19, 2021The Legislature has entered a new phase, making it more clear for education advocates which bills have the greatest chance of moving down the line.
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Protecting teacher diversity serves students
Monday, April 19, 2021An important bill is hung up as OSBA and other partners work to give schools the best tools for deciding which teachers to keep if they are forced into layoffs.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, April 19, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, April 19, 2021Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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State budget ‘road show’ is chance to take advantage of legislators’ attention
Monday, April 12, 2021Recent funding for summer learning shows the Legislature’s understanding of school district challenges, but the State School Fund proposal does not indicate the same level of concern.
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Facility bills threaten to raise school districts’ costs
Monday, April 12, 2021Legislators need to know that when they add complexity and cost to school construction it can take away from the mission of educating children.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, April 12, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, April 12, 2021Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Legislative dysfunction endangers education bills with universal support
Monday, April 5, 2021Issues such as supporting small schools are caught up in a fight over how the Legislature is being run during the pandemic.
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Something has to give as pressure mounts to move bills in the House
Monday, April 5, 2021COVID-19, technical glitches and Republican stalling tactics are creating an alarming backlog that could derail important education legislation.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, April 5, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, April 5, 2021Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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In first budget salvo, legislators lowball schools
Monday, March 29, 2021The budget framework from the leaders holding the Legislature's purse strings offers a $9.1 billion State School Fund, which falls far short of what schools need for current services.
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Board development bill offers opportunity to build better school districts
Monday, March 29, 2021State-mandated training raises concerns with some school board members, but the ultimate goal of better governance is worth supporting.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, March 29, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, March 29, 2021Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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School equity committee proposal seems positive, but details are key
Monday, March 22, 2021More community input is always a good thing, but if a bill’s language isn’t changed, it could put some districts in a difficult position.
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Light at the end of the tunnel: Escape or oncoming train?
Monday, March 22, 2021The first legislative deadline gives more clarity about which bills will keep moving down the tracks, but right now everything is rolling slow.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, March 22, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, March 22, 2021Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Horrific stories of student abuse create call to action, sometimes in ways that aren’t helpful
Monday, March 15, 2021OSBA continues to support legislation that shields students from inappropriate behavior and gives schools the tools to remove problem employees, but some bills would create more lawsuits without more protections.
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Summer learning programs require planning and input
Monday, March 15, 2021The state’s announced $325 million investment in summer learning and child care is deeply welcomed, but education leaders would like to help shape how it is best distributed.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, March 15, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to public schools.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, March 15, 2021Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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With first deadline in sight, pressure mounts on ambitious topics
Monday, March 8, 2021Legislative committees must decide in the next two weeks whether to move forward on bills ranging from class-size agreements to hate symbols to teacher diversity.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, March 8, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to public schools.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, March 8, 2021Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Waiting to join a virtual meeting is not the same as waiting in the Capitol lobby
Monday, March 8, 2021The lack of personal access to legislators makes it harder for education advocates to share valuable information to refine bills
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Class-size bargaining bill returns, challenging equity gains
Monday, March 1, 2021A one-size-fits-all bill would force schools to make potentially costly decisions with little proven academic benefit.
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Legislative redistricting also establishes new lines for school advocacy
Monday, March 1, 2021Every 10 years, the Legislature redraws the boundaries for Senate and House districts, shifting political relationships and alliances.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, March 1, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to public schools.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, March 1, 2021Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Equity and restorative justice bills ask districts to make hard decisions
Tuesday, February 16, 2021A bill that would allow school districts to hire people with drug convictions raises questions about who is prevented from working in schools and why.
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Prevailing wage bills carry disruptive costs for schools
Tuesday, February 16, 2021Legislation that changes the calculation for public projects would throw a wrench in recent and upcoming bond budgets.
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Legislative Briefs
Tuesday, February 16, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to public schools.
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The Look Ahead
Tuesday, February 16, 2021Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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In time of distance learning, online charter schools draw legislative attention
Monday, February 8, 2021Bills that would move the cap on charter school enrollment up or down feed into a deeper policy difference on school choice.
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If Oregon wants better schools, it must continue to fund the improvements
Monday, February 8, 2021Discussions about ‘current service level’ for the State School Fund are really about paying for teachers and programs to support students.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, February 8, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to public schools.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, February 8, 2021Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Bills offer contrasting approaches to keeping students safe
Monday, February 1, 2021Although Oregon needs to refine legal efforts to prevent inappropriate contact with students, it also must be careful to avoid unintended consequences for school district staff.
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Virtual world opens up new lines of advocacy communication
Monday, February 1, 2021Legislative meetings last week on K-12 reopenings featured a variety of voices.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, February 1, 2021A roundup of action on bills important to public schools.
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Legislative session’s delayed start opens with remote hearings
Monday, January 25, 2021The Legislature is facing a unique process, with limited face-to-face interaction and access to the Capitol.
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A strange session calls for more member advocacy
Monday, January 25, 2021Virtual meetings offer opportunities for school board members to be part of the process.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, January 25, 2021Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Third special session finally offers liability protections for school districts
Wednesday, December 23, 2020The protests outside the Capitol and some jousting inside did not derail a key tool to help schools offer more in-person instruction.
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Federal stimulus package would send relief to schools
Wednesday, December 23, 2020The bill awaiting President Trump’s signature sets aside $54 billion for K-12 public education.
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Legislature packs drama and impact into one-day special session
Wednesday, December 23, 2020With your support and advocacy, schools received long-awaited COVID-19 liability protection.
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Governor’s proposed budget sets stage for legislative funding discussions
Thursday, December 3, 2020The plan puts real numbers to Oregon’s priorities for its children.
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OSBA Board members help shape governor’s budget
Thursday, December 3, 2020Oregon School Board Members of Color Caucus members participated in the Racial Justice Council’s budget deliberations.
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Wild year adds new concerns for next State School Fund debate
Thursday, December 3, 2020While COVID-19 has crimped the state budget, it has also created additional education spending needs.
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Legislature hears about schools and COVID-19
Monday, September 28, 2020Education agency leaders report to the House and Senate education committees during interim legislative days.
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Legislators discuss revenue report, COVID-19 liability protection
Monday, September 28, 2020The state economic picture is looking better, but budget cuts remain on the horizon.
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Broadband should be Oregon priority for students
Monday, September 28, 2020Equity demands that every student have adequate access to comprehensive distance learning.
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Legislature addresses budget shortfall, other policy issues
Wednesday, August 12, 2020A marathon one-day special session balanced the budget while protecting the full State School Fund.
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Is a third special session possible?
Wednesday, August 12, 2020The economy, the pandemic or social issues could demand legislators return to Salem again.
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Second special session closes with no liability relief for schools
Wednesday, August 12, 2020A workgroup with representatives for employers and employees is trying to sort out the complicated issue.
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Legislature convenes for emergency special session to address policing, COVID-19
Friday, June 26, 2020Some issues for schools, including a small schools funding bill and virtual meeting rules, faced no opposition.
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What is a special session? Questions and answers
Friday, June 26, 2020One special session looks to be wrapping up, but another one is expected.
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First special session defined discussion of school district COVID-19 liability
Friday, June 26, 2020OSBA membership advocacy has pressured legislators to create a task force to study the issue for an upcoming session.
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Grim economic report holds some rays of hope
Thursday, May 21, 2020The quarterly forecast was not as bad as some predictions, and Oregon has significant reserves to cushion the fall.
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Summer program, in-person instruction guidances released
Thursday, May 21, 2020Limited school-based programs will be allowed, but staff and students must maintain health and social distancing requirements.
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Budgets, reopening are top school district questions
Thursday, May 21, 2020Despite coming state spending cuts, OSBA recommends districts budget for a full State School Fund and show legislators what could be lost.
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Virtual Legislative Days begin this week
Thursday, May 21, 2020The Legislature has adapted the usual meetings between sessions to account for social distancing requirements.
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ODE extends pass/incomplete grading to K-8
Friday, April 24, 2020The Oregon Department of Education has issued a series of guidances to clarify its Distance Learning for All efforts.
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Executive order closing schools through June 30 builds on previous orders
Friday, April 24, 2020The order expands services expected of schools to include social and emotional supports.
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Legislative board distributes emergency funding, prepares for federal allocations
Friday, April 24, 2020The Emergency Board allocated more than $30 million to respond to the coronavirus pandemic.
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All eyes are on the May 20 revenue forecast
Friday, April 24, 2020School budget cuts are looking likely while everyone waits to reopen businesses.
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State, federal and local resources for COVID-19 information
Friday, March 27, 2020A collection of webpage links offers sources for school requirements, legislative responses and available support.
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ODE guidance updates Student Success Act process
Friday, March 27, 2020Districts must still submit plans by April 15, but OSBA and ODE are offering help on the meeting requirements.
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Special session for pandemic response likely next week
Friday, March 27, 2020Legislators have been working on recommendations to address the state’s most urgent needs.
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Quorum and other legislative session questions explained
Wednesday, March 11, 2020The 2020 Legislature offered a lesson on Oregon's constitutional rules.
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Time to look ahead because session didn’t offer much to look back upon
Wednesday, March 11, 2020A special session to finish the Legislature's business is possible, but it faces some significant planning hurdles.
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Four walkouts in 10 months shows Legislature has a deep problem
Wednesday, March 11, 2020The recriminations are flying, but that doesn’t settle pressing education issues.
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Introducing the Weekly Scoop!
Wednesday, March 11, 2020With the end of the 2020 session, Legislative Highlights will be taking a break, but OSBA will still offer up-to-date information on all things related to the Legislature.
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Legislative walkout leaves education bills in limbo
Monday, March 2, 2020With a week left in the session, these nine bills important to schools are hung up.
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Walkout tears at fabric of Legislature
Monday, March 2, 2020The rules could change for future legislative sessions if this Legislature continues down its nonproductive path.
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Wage Security Fund, anti-discrimination bills languish during quiet week
Monday, March 2, 2020A few bills moved to the chamber floors, but they can go no further until Republicans return to the Capitol.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, March 2, 2020Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Small schools could pay price for Capitol drama
Monday, February 24, 2020Important education legislation has been caught in the backlog created by legislators' fight over the climate bill.
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Slowdown proving effective but blunt tactic
Monday, February 24, 2020Republicans have succeeded in slowing the legislative process, but they could hurt some unintended targets.
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Anti-discrimination bill adds language to require schools to take cash payments
Monday, February 24, 2020The bill includes hairstyle and dress code considerations that are consistent with OSBA recommendations.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, February 24, 2020A roundup of action on bills important to public schools.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, February 24, 2020Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Important education bills survive deadline
Tuesday, February 18, 2020A bill making necessary technical fixes and one to help fund small schools move forward as the next deadline fast approaches.
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Breakneck pace sends bills forward while still working kinks out
Tuesday, February 18, 2020The short session received a shot of good news with another positive revenue forecast.
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Whole lot of reading required for bills to clear Legislature
Tuesday, February 18, 2020The constitutionally required process to pass a bill includes several steps to give the public and legislators a chance to respond.
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Legislative Briefs
Tuesday, February 18, 2020A roundup of action on bills important to public schools.
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Anti-discrimination bill runs into opposition over ‘cash discrimination’
Tuesday, February 18, 2020Rules affecting dress codes and hairstyle policies are consistent with OSBA guidance, but the business community has problems with other aspects of the bill.
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The Look Ahead
Tuesday, February 18, 2020Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Education issues create heat, if not headlines
Monday, February 10, 2020In hearing rooms away from this session’s spotlight topics, legislators and education advocates hash out important legislation.
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Walkout threats heighten short session’s feverish pitch
Monday, February 10, 2020Education advocates are trying to push forward mostly technical fixes before a potential work stoppage in the Capitol.
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Different types of measures have different purposes
Monday, February 10, 2020The Oregon Legislature can do things such as send a national message, honor citizens, take action against its own members and give agencies direction in addition to passing laws.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, February 10, 2020A roundup of action on bills important to public schools.
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Unemployment insurance, Wage Security Fund and age discrimination raised
Monday, February 10, 2020Business-related bills could affect school funds and labor practices.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, February 10, 2020Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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2020 legislative session opens with conflict already in the air
Monday, February 3, 2020The climate change fight is sucking up all the oxygen in the Capitol while education bills mostly focus on tweaking laws.
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Legislative Policy Committee begins 2021-22 process
Monday, February 3, 2020OSBA’s staff in the Capitol take their direction from school board members’ priorities.
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Tips for reading bills
Monday, February 3, 2020Knowing some key elements of bills’ structure makes its easier to understand the legislative process.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, February 3, 2020A roundup of action on bills important to public schools.
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'Cap and trade’ holds the business community’s attention
Monday, February 3, 2020The short session will likely touch on other business issues that also affect schools.
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The Look Ahead
Monday, February 3, 2020Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Legislative days offer preview of 2020 bills
Wednesday, January 22, 2020The education committee bills stick to the idea that the short session is for tuning up the laws, not major changes.
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OSBA partner's report draws attention to afterschool, summer learning value
Wednesday, January 22, 2020Programs that extend the learning day align closely with the grant-supported goals of the Student Success Act.
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Capitol watchers ponder a short-session walkout as partisan tensions heat up
Wednesday, January 22, 2020Bills addressing carbon emissions and gun safety will likely dominate the 2020 Legislature’s attention.
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Legislative website carries searchable wealth of information
Wednesday, January 22, 2020Find out where bills are in the process and check out all the supporting information attached to measures.
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The Look Ahead
Wednesday, January 22, 2020Keep track of legislative events and learn about advocacy opportunities in the weeks ahead.
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New year brings new education-related laws
Wednesday, January 8, 2020Most education bills are timed to coincide with the school calendar, but some take effect on the more typical Jan. 1.
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Legislative seats continue to shuffle as February session comes into focus
Wednesday, January 8, 2020Committee agendas next week will offer clues about the education issues to be tackled in the short 2020 session.
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Capitol e-Subscribe sets up steady stream of legislative information
Wednesday, January 8, 2020The automated service can be tailored to users’ specific Legislature interests.
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The Look Ahead
Wednesday, January 8, 2020Keep track of legislative events and learn about advocacy opportunities in the weeks ahead.
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Oregon Business Plan summit connects education and economy
Wednesday, December 18, 2019The annual Leadership Summit explores Oregon’s future, with an eye toward improving schools.
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Legislature hears first citizen complaint under law
Wednesday, December 18, 2019New rules give the public more access to the complaints process against legislators.
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Page for a day program writes a lifetime memory
Wednesday, December 18, 2019Know a student who is interested in how the Legislature works?
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The Look Ahead
Wednesday, December 18, 2019Keep track of legislative events and learn about advocacy opportunities in the weeks ahead.
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Education funding among main topics during November legislative meetings
Wednesday, December 4, 2019The Student Success Act has helped narrow the gap between state school funding and the Quality Education Model vision.
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Influential education-focused legislators are leaving Legislature
Wednesday, December 4, 2019Recent announcements by legislators retiring or running for different offices will create openings for new school champions.
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The Look Ahead
Wednesday, December 4, 2019Keep track of legislative events and learn about advocacy opportunities in the weeks ahead.
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Legislative Days return with education-related hearings and 2020 bill concept previews
Wednesday, November 13, 2019Legislators will also hear next week the latest estimates of Oregon’s economic picture.
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OSBA convention offers advocacy and legislative lessons
Wednesday, November 13, 2019The annual gathering presents a wealth of workshops on what is going on in Salem and how you can affect education policy.
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Walden’s retirement shakes up Oregon politics
Wednesday, November 13, 2019The longtime congressman was a solid advocate for rural school funding.
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Public committee testimony gives legislators ideas
Tuesday, November 12, 2019When legislators are studying bills, your input can sway the final product if you have prepared well.
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The Look Ahead
Wednesday, November 13, 2019Keep track of legislative events and learn about advocacy opportunities in the weeks ahead.
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Oregon Revenue Department to host public video and phone conferences on new tax
Tuesday, October 29, 2019The state is preparing to collect the business tax that will support the Student Success Act.
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Fall Regional Meetings offer broad look at new laws
Tuesday, October 29, 2019The annual OSBA state tour, which this year featured the Student Success Act, winds down.
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Legislative calendar sets the timeline for all session work
Tuesday, October 29, 2019Knowing when the Legislature is working and when it can take action helps guide advocacy planning.
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The Look Ahead
Tuesday, October 29, 2019Keep track of legislative events and learn about advocacy opportunities in the weeks ahead.
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PERS bill contributed to minimal rate increase estimate
Wednesday, October 16, 2019The Public Employees Retirement System board adopted preliminary rate projections earlier this month, but the real rates for 2021-23 will depend on 2019 returns.
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School-based health center opportunity expanded (Guest column)
Wednesday, October 16, 2019The Legislature is investing in a proven support for students, according to an Alliance4Kids representative
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Build relationships with legislators before you need them
Wednesday, October 16, 2019Some simple habits will make communications with legislators more effective.
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The Look Ahead
Wednesday, October 16, 2019Keep track of legislative events and learn about advocacy opportunities in the weeks ahead.
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OSBA Fall Regional Meetings start today
Wednesday, October 2, 2019The annual meetings bring OSBA staff to your area to share information, answer questions and take feedback.
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New law will better protect students from predators
Wednesday, October 2, 2019Senate Bill 155 broadens the regulations on school employee conduct toward students.
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How an idea becomes a law
Wednesday, October 2, 2019Understanding the process is key to knowing how and when you can influence potential legislation.
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House Republicans upend leadership ahead of 2020
Wednesday, October 2, 2019The minority party’s maneuvers to increase its legislative numbers could affect education issues.
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The Look Ahead
Wednesday, October 2, 2019Keep track of legislative events and learn about advocacy opportunities in the weeks ahead.
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Legislature’s interim hearings include education funding, audit subjects
Wednesday, September 18, 2019Legislators are back in the Capitol this week to hear how laws old and new are working.
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OSBA Legislative Policy Committee openings offer chance to guide advocacy
Wednesday, September 18, 2019The nomination deadline for the committee that sets OSBA’s legislative policies and priorities is Sept. 27.
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Surprising memo moves away from PERS reform bill provision
Wednesday, September 18, 2019The Department of Administrative Services announced the executive branch will not allow PERS retirees to return to work full time, a choice school districts may follow.
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Make your legislators experts on your district
Wednesday, September 18, 2019Advocacy starts with developing a relationship with legislators before you need them.
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The Look Ahead
Wednesday, September 18, 2019Keep track of legislative events and learn about advocacy opportunities in the weeks ahead.
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Oregon School Board Members of Color Caucus members discuss new school year challenges and aspirations
Wednesday, September 4, 2019It’s an exciting time of year but also a time of added stress for some communities.
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Oregon Department of Education rolls out Student Success Act toolkit
Wednesday, September 4, 2019The ODE webpage offers guidance for tapping into the Student Investment Account grants.
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Work together as a board to build relationships with legislators
Wednesday, September 4, 2019Legislative Highlights’ regular series on being a more effective advocate this week covers some basic rules about being a reliable information source.
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Now is the time for outreach and advocacy to support Student Success Act
Wednesday, September 4, 2019Engagement requirements will be challenging, but OSBA is offering guidance and support.
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The Look Ahead
Wednesday, September 4, 2019Keep track of legislative events and learn about advocacy opportunities in the weeks ahead.
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Challenges to PERS bill filed, implementation issues mount
Tuesday, August 13, 2019Public employee unions have filed a lawsuit challenging portions of SB 1049, the Legislature’s PERS reform bill from the 2019 session.
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OSBA/COSA 2019 Legislative Report Available
Tuesday, August 13, 2019OSBA and COSA have compiled a summary of the 2019 laws that affect schools and community colleges.
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Student Success committee shut down, plus other news and notes
Tuesday, August 13, 2019The Student Success Act implementation is keeping education stakeholders busy.
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The Look Ahead
Tuesday, August 13, 2019Keep track of legislative events and learn about advocacy opportunities in the weeks ahead.
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ODE announces leader for Student Success Act implementation
Wednesday, July 31, 2019Scott Nine has been named the assistant superintendent for the new Oregon Department of Education Office of Education Innovation and Improvement.
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Questions and, more importantly, answers about PERS reform
Wednesday, July 31, 2019Senate Bill 1049 made significant changes to the highly complex Public Employees Retirement System.
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Advocacy at the intersection of politics and school board service
Wednesday, July 31, 2019School board members must straddle local and state politics for the sake of the students.
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The Look Ahead
Wednesday, July 31, 2019Keep track of legislative events and learn about advocacy opportunities in the weeks ahead.
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Student Success Act architect, former school board member move into leadership roles
Tuesday, July 16, 2019Reps. Barbara Smith Warner and Janeen Sollman have shown themselves to be education advocates, and now they will have more sway.
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State is gearing up for Student Success Act implementation even as threats to it remain
Tuesday, July 16, 2019The Student Success Act received the big headlines, but OSBA and the Confederation of Oregon School Administrators will summarize all the legislative session’s education changes.
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Boquist conduct hearings stoke partisan tension even after session ends
Tuesday, July 16, 2019Legislators will have a hard time addressing the state’s education needs if they are spending their time and energy fighting each other.
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The Look Ahead
Tuesday, July 16, 2019Keep track of legislative events and learn about advocacy opportunities in the weeks ahead.
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Historic 2019 Legislature sets up significant education work ahead
Tuesday, July 2, 2019New laws will increase education funding, cut school expenses and make important policy changes.
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No rest for Legislative Highlights
Tuesday, July 2, 2019Ramifications from the Legislature’s work will reverberate throughout the year, and Legislative Highlights will continue publishing to keep you informed between sessions.
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For employers, some of the biggest victories were failed bills
Tuesday, July 2, 2019Business community allies blocked legislation that could have increased costs, but many of those bill concepts will likely return next session.
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As climate-tax vote drew near, Senate Republicans disappeared
Monday, June 24, 2019House Bill 2020 would establish a cap-and-trade structure for carbon taxation in Oregon that Republicans say would kill jobs and disproportionately harm rural areas.
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Roiling partisanship clouds Senate president’s legacy
Monday, June 24, 2019Senate Republicans’ walkout challenges Sen. Peter Courtney’s long efforts at bipartisanship.
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Republicans’ disappearance strands some important bills
Monday, June 24, 2019The legislative session was looking as if it was nearing the finish line, but in a surprising turn of events, the Senate Republicans have once again vacated the building, this time in protest of the expansive cap-and-trade bill.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, June 24, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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Bill to help schools protect students nears the finish line
Monday, June 17, 2019Senate Bill 155 addresses inappropriate school employee behavior that might not necessarily warrant a criminal investigation.
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Bill to help districts with insurance costs heads to Senate floor
Monday, June 17, 2019The bill allowing double insurance coverage and opt-out payments is supported by public employers and employees.
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With end looming, legislators are still doing work that is important to schools
Monday, June 17, 2019One of OSBA’s priority bills is moving, and the Legislature is working on cap and trade, which will affect districts’ budgets.
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With few bills left, interest groups narrow their focus
Monday, June 17, 2019The cap-and-trade bill will be under intense scrutiny as it heads to the House floor.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, June 17, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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As sine die nears, education funding committee winds down
Monday, June 10, 2019The Joint Ways and Means Education Subcommittee has two bills remaining that absolutely must be moved before the session’s end and a few other important bills to consider.
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Democratic allies win some, lose some on the Senate floor last week
Monday, June 10, 2019A bill helping labor unions passes while a bill supported by trial lawyers fails.
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Even in session with historic legislation, ‘little’ bills often make a big difference
Monday, June 10, 2019OSBA has helped pass legislation that addresses specific school district problems.
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Business advocates looking for wins as session winds down
Monday, June 10, 2019With target sine die only two weeks away, the pressure is mounting to finalize bill negotiations and solidify high-priority legislation.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, June 10, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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PERS bill drama warns of story lines still to come
Monday, June 3, 2019The bill’s cost containment provisions would reduce employer contributions by $1.2 billion to $1.8 billion a biennium, according to the Legislative Fiscal Office, but unions have vowed to fight it.
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Business group challenges Student Success Act
Monday, June 3, 2019Oregon Manufacturers and Commerce has to fund the signature gathering and possible campaign, an expensive proposition, without the support of many businesses.
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Legislature plows forward with PERS reform despite emotional loss of senator
Monday, June 3, 2019Although the PERS bill isn’t exactly what we would have preferred, it is expected to hold rates steady for the 2021-23 biennium.
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With legislators spending more time on chamber floor, important bills are moving
Monday, June 3, 2019The Republican dam in the House finally broke with an agreement to stop reading every bill in its entirety, and bills are flooding through.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, June 3, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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Public pension reform would open new education possibilities
Tuesday, May 28, 2019Public Employeees Retirement System cost containment has moved one step closer to becoming law.
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Following deadline, legislative committees start shutting down
Tuesday, May 28, 2019The action now shifts to the chamber floors.
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Senate races to reform PERS while House crawls along
Tuesday, May 28, 2019Every bill before the House chamber must be read in its entirety because the Republicans are still denying a rules suspension.
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Negotiations over business-altering bills coming to conclusions
Tuesday, May 28, 2019Last week marked the beginning of the end of the 2019 legislative session with the announcement of a one-hour posting notice for committee hearings, which speeds the process up.
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Legislative Briefs
Tuesday, May 28, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Week Ahead
Tuesday, May 28, 2019Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Major re-investment in Oregon schools finally crashes through
Monday, May 20, 2019It was not clear early Monday, May 13, if the all terms of a deal between Senate Democrats and Republicans would hold, but by the close of the floor session House Bill 3427 had passed on a party-line vote.
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Long-serving education advocates marvel at magnitude of Student Success Act
Monday, May 20, 2019By any calculation, the Student Success Act is an astounding achievement.
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Focus shifts to taming PERS costs
Monday, May 20, 2019Republicans’ frustration over the Student Success Act stemmed partly from the fact the Public Employees Retirement System diverts a huge chunk of the State School Fund away from classrooms.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, May 20, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Week Ahead
Monday, May 20, 2019Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Senate Republicans disappear, taking vote on Student Success Act with them
Monday, May 13, 2019Last week, 11 of 12 Oregon Senate Republicans absconded their constitutional responsibility and failed to appear for Senate floor sessions.
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Bill would force OSAA to have policies to respond to racist incidents
Monday, May 13, 2019House Bill 3409 would prohibit schools from participating in interscholastic activities coordinated by an association unless that association develops and adopts policies on "equality, civility, dignity and civil rights."
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Pressure building in Capitol as bills back up
Monday, May 13, 2019The Senate Republican walkout made for a wild week, sort of quiet but very weird, while House Republicans continued to hold their chamber’s movement to a crawl.
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Advocates need to tell senators to get back to work helping students
Monday, May 13, 2019Education supporters can let the senators know how important passage of the Student Success Act is to their schools.
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Senate Republicans’ demands overlap with business interests
Monday, May 13, 2019In addition to requesting the contentious cap-and-trade bill be killed, Republicans want to stop the controversial “Janus decision fix” collective bargaining bill.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, May 13, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Week Ahead
Monday, May 13, 2019Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Legislature has opportunity to pound sense into ‘misshapen creation’
Monday, May 6, 2019More than 45 years after Gov. Tom McCall called attention to one of Oregon’s biggest problems, the 80th Legislative Assembly is poised to tackle the “grave inequities of educational finance.”
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Education funding notches House win but campaign isn’t over
Monday, May 6, 2019The Senate is expected to vote on the Student Success Act this week.
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Don’t let sweet victory distract from advocacy still being needed
Monday, May 6, 2019After nearly 30 years, it seems hard to believe that we are so close to a historic reinvestment in public education.
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Student Success Act negotiations push into other business issues
Monday, May 6, 2019Topics such as workplace discrimination, tobacco tax and cap and trade saw little to no movement as legislators turned their attention to the Student Success Act.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, May 6, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Week Ahead
Monday, May 6, 2019Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Student Success waiting game continues as members work through tax issues
Monday, April 29, 2019The Joint Committee on Student Success continued its work Thursday, April 25, edging ever closer to a vote on the Student Success Act.
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Historic education moment calls for school board members’ support
Monday, April 29, 2019Votes are coming on a significant investment in schools, and legislators need to know where your community stands.
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Emotional issues ignite Capitol debates
Monday, April 29, 2019The pace in the Capitol has slowed, as committee agendas are no longer overflowing with bills.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, April 29, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Week Ahead
Monday, April 29, 2019Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Revenue plan work builds toward Student Success Act vote
Monday, April 22, 2019The Joint Committee on Student Success has held public hearings on the cornerstones of its bill.
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While Legislature works through bill backlog, Student Success Committee drives on
Monday, April 22, 2019The committee had two public hearings on House Bill 3427, the new bill that has become the vehicle for the education investment plan and revenue plan.
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PERS proposal thrown into education investment debate
Monday, April 22, 2019Cost containment remains a legislative concern.
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Problematic bills for employers survive legislative deadline
Monday, April 22, 2019Paid family leave, collective bargaining, marijuana, workplace discrimination and cap-and-trade legislation dominated the building’s business discussions last week.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, April 22, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Week Ahead
Monday, April 22, 2019Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Legislature poised for generational investment in education
Monday, April 15, 2019The Student Success Committee has put forth a detailed revenue and spending plan, and Gov. Kate Brown is tackling the PERS problem.
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Student Success Committee blunts usual effect of bill-killing deadline
Monday, April 15, 2019Some bills will likely be rolled into the monumental Student Success Act, including legislation on student safety, social and emotional health, and school meals.
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Capitol pause followed by momentous PERS and Student Success action
Monday, April 15, 2019Most committees took a day off after the April 9 deadline to move bills and did not meet, which was like a vacation day for those of us in the Capitol building. The vacation didn’t last.
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Local advocates need to push legislators to support education investment plan
Monday, April 15, 2019Now is the time to engage with your local legislators and ensure we achieve increased school funding in this legislative session.
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Senator’s flip allows marijuana bill to move forward
Monday, April 15, 2019The education funding push is diverting attention from "cap and trade" efforts.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, April 15, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Week Ahead
Monday, April 15, 2019Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Student Success Committee promises draft amendments this week
Monday, April 8, 2019Joint Committee on Student Success Co-Chairs Sen. Arnie Roblan and Rep. Barbara Smith Warner revealed during the Thursday, April 4, committee hearing the plans for the Student Success Act.
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Bills scurry to escape looming deadline hammer
Monday, April 8, 2019Tuesday, April 9, marks the deadline to “work,” meaning vote on, bills in the chamber of origin.
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Legislative deadline helps advocates narrow their focus
Monday, April 8, 2019I am certainly looking forward to Tuesday so we can get a better sense of which bills are still alive and have the potential to continue into phase two of the legislative session.
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Student Success Committee’s plan adds urgency to need for education advocacy
Monday, April 8, 2019Release of the Joint Committee on Student Success’ legislative outline means the Oregonians for Student Success campaign is kicking into high gear.
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Gun control, cap-and-trade bills slowed ahead of procedural deadlines
Monday, April 8, 2019With the first major deadline of the session looming, there was an increased sense of urgency these past two weeks in the Oregon Capitol.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, April 8, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Week Ahead
Monday, April 8, 2019Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Time is right for Joint Committee announcement this week
Monday, April 1, 2019This could be the week that co-chairs release details of the investment and funding priorities of the committee.
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As first deadline nears, policy bills look to be on the move
Monday, April 1, 2019The first-chamber deadline approaches, and policy committees are posting agendas to get bills moving.
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For public-sector employers, how much is too much?
Monday, April 1, 2019Several bills would expand the benefits of public-sector employees or increase the responsibilities of public-sector employers.
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Pace keeps picking up as deadlines approach
Monday, April 1, 2019Paid family leave bills draw hundreds turning out for hearings.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, April 1, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Week Ahead
Monday, April 1, 2019Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Senate Education Committee to discuss employee misconduct bills
Monday, March 25, 2019Senate Bills 155, 156 and 960 represent a major OSBA legislative priority this session.
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As first legislative deadline nears, proponents push big policy ideas
Monday, March 25, 2019Policy committees in both chambers of the Legislature operate on procedural deadlines, and the first significant deadline is March 29.
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With spring’s arrival, new crop of legislative education priorities bloom
Monday, March 25, 2019Oregon schools are on spring break this week, but the Legislature won’t be taking a break.
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Education-supporting revenue package visible on horizon
Monday, March 25, 2019It may not be the beginning of the end, but it is definitely shaping up to be the end of the beginning for this Legislature's work on new revenue for schools.
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Paid family leave and other employee rights bills have businesses concerned
Monday, March 25, 2019Conversations and hearings have touched on workplace harassment, the personal income kicker and preparation for a hearing on a paid family leave bill.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, March 25, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Week Ahead
Monday, March 25, 2019Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Student Success Committee begins ironing out the details
Monday, March 18, 2019The Joint Committee on Student Success seems poised to tackle big problems, ranging from student wellness to curriculum choices.
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Labor unions push bill that would give bargaining advantages
Monday, March 18, 2019House Bill 2016 is a major bill for public sector labor organizations and could be damaging to school districts statewide.
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Capitol sorting process is beginning to reveal bills of consequence
Monday, March 18, 2019A flurry of recent Capitol activity is setting up some important hearings on bills that could have lasting repercussions with school districts.
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Videos tell real story of students affected by underfunded schools
Monday, March 18, 2019We have launched the first in a series of videos profiling students from around the state and how a lack of school funding impacts their education.
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Bills pit worker protections against employers’ hiring needs
Monday, March 18, 2019Behind-the-scenes drama is competing with hard budget numbers for legislators’ attention.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, March 18, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Week Ahead
Monday, March 18, 2019Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Change in revenue legislation approach makes next budgeting steps unclear
Monday, March 11, 2019The legislative leaders in the Joint Ways and Means Committee delivered their budget framework for the 2019-21 biennium on Thursday, March 7.
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Co-chairs’ budget shifts funding battle to push to get adequate resources
Monday, March 11, 2019It’s all about the budget this week in Salem.
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Advocacy campaign transitioning from town halls to state budget hearing testimony
Monday, March 11, 2019Oregonians for Student Success lobby days, in partnership with the Confederation of Oregon School Administrators, are continuing, with events for eastern and southern Oregon coming up.
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Bill changing independent contractor test would affect pay and benefits
Monday, March 11, 2019Legislation addressing workers’ compensation, paid family leave and independent contractor status led business conversations in the Capitol during week 7 of the legislative session.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, March 11, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Week Ahead
Monday, March 11, 2019Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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One milestone down, co-chairs’ budget yet to come
Monday, March 4, 2019We passed the first milestone Feb. 26, the last day for a legislator to draft an unlimited number of bills.
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Workers' comp issues dominate business discussions for the week
Monday, March 4, 2019Although marijuana and workplace harassment issues continue to be a priority for legislators, workers' compensation issues managed to consume business discussions last week.
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Town halls winding down as budget road show begins gearing up
Monday, March 4, 2019With the impending release of the Ways and Means co-chairs’ budget proposal, we added messaging to our lobby days and upcoming town halls.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, March 4, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Week Ahead
Monday, March 4, 2019Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Students make impressive pitches for more education funding
Friday, February 22, 2019Teachers and students, out of school for Presidents Day, formed a large school funding rally in the morning on the Capitol steps.
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Legislators talk with students during Lobby Day
Friday, February 22, 2019More than 25 school board members, students, teachers and administrators attended our Lobby Day on Tuesday, Feb. 19, in the Capitol.
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Bills explore how to report and investigate workplace harassment
Friday, February 22, 2019Cap and trade continues to be the issue of the session, but the shock of the bill has begun to fade, allowing other issues to crowd in, including Medicaid funding and workplace conditions.
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Legislative Briefs
Friday, February 22, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, February 22, 2019Be informed about what's happening that may affect education.
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Adding more accountability measures isn’t the answer, superintendents tell legislators
Friday, February 15, 2019School districts are already awash in accountability measures, superintendents told legislators at a hearing.
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Class-size bill returns but remains wrong approach to solving issue
Friday, February 15, 2019The Senate Education Committee is scheduled to hold a hearing on class size as a mandatory bargaining issue on Monday, Feb. 18.
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First lobby day puts education advocates in legislators’ offices
Friday, February 15, 2019Oregonians for Student Success hosted our first lobby day on Tuesday, Feb.12, bringing supporters from Multnomah and Clackamas counties to the Capitol to advocate for school needs, including adequate and stable funding.
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Marijuana usage bill raises safety concerns for employers
Friday, February 15, 2019Employers testing employees for marijuana and harassment in the workplace remain at the forefront of workplace legislation conversations.
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Legislative Briefs
Friday, February 15, 2019A roundup of action on bills important to school districts.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, February 15, 2019Be informed about what's happening that may affect education issues.
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Education committees consider bills extending help for student mental health crisis
Monday, February 11, 2019Oregon is dealing with a student mental and emotional health crisis, and legislators want to give schools more tools to help young people.
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Bill governing workplace harassment agreements to have public hearing
Monday, February 11, 2019Marijuana, workplace harassment and independent contractor bills continue to dominate business conversations through week three of the legislative session.
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Capitol pace remains red hot, even during snow days
Monday, February 11, 2019Tuesday started out slow as members made their way from outside the Salem area, but as usual, everything picked up speed and committees were all back on track by noon.
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Town hall discusses mechanisms for raising revenue for schools
Monday, February 11, 2019The Oregonians for Student Success road show continued last week with a well-attended event in Eugene that included Rep. John Lively, D-Springfield.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, February 11, 2019A roundup of action and important events in the Capitol.
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The Week Ahead
Monday, February 11, 2019Be informed about what's happening that may affect education issues.
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Trauma Informed Schools projects show early and dramatic positive impacts
Friday, February 1, 2019The House Education Committee heard exciting testimony last week on two bills to extend and expand the state’s Trauma Informed Schools projects.
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Marijuana, contractor requirement bills concern employers
Friday, February 1, 2019Workforce and business issue discussions ramped up as week two of the legislative session came to an end.
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Lull before the budget framework storm gives time to prepare for bills
Friday, February 1, 2019This session started out much like every regular session, with folks hustling around the Capitol to talk to each other about their bills and catching legislators in the halls and elevators for brief conversations.
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Town halls generate education discussion with legislators
Friday, February 1, 2019The Oregonians for Student Success campaign continues to build momentum as the legislative session gets underway.
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Legislative Briefs
Friday, February 1, 2019A roundup of action and important events in the Capitol.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, February 1, 2019Be informed about what's happening that may affect education issues.
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Legislature opens session with crush of bills, but important legislation still to be seen
Friday, January 25, 2019The 80th Legislative Assembly opened Tuesday, Jan. 22, and already more than 1,600 bills have been introduced.
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Workplace harassment policy could affect school boards
Friday, January 25, 2019Wide-reaching discussions surrounding workplace harassment legislation and the Capitol culture make it clear that workplace harassment will be a theme of this year’s legislative session.
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Legislative session launches with burst of energy before real work starts
Friday, January 25, 2019Session officially began Jan. 22 at the usual pace: a sprint. Gov. Kate Brown and newly elected legislators were sworn in, and then with a bustle of activity, committees met to adopt rules and introduce members.
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Advocacy campaign amplifies call for education funding
Friday, January 25, 2019Official launch of our advocacy campaign for school funding: Oregonians for Student Success.
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Legislative Briefs
Friday, January 25, 2019A roundup of action and important events in the Capitol in the past week
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The Week Ahead
Friday, January 25, 2019Be informed about what's happening next week that may affect education issues.
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Political signs point toward Oregon Democratic supermajority in 2019
Tuesday, March 6, 2018If Democrats achieve a supermajority, their 2019 agenda will likely push progressive issues, especially concerning the Public Employees Retirement System and revenue reform.
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Short-session issues will come back to haunt 2019 Legislature
Tuesday, March 6, 2018The Legislature crammed a lot of action into its 28-day short session. Some bills passed, more bills died and legislators will likely return in 2019 to pick up where 2018 left off.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, March 5, 2018A roundup of action and important events in the Capitol in the past week
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As the 2018 session’s time draws short, so do tempers and patience
Monday, February 26, 2018Constitutionally, this session cannot go longer than 35 days, meaning legislators must adjourn no later than March 11.
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Pair of bills would bring transit funds to schools and students
Monday, February 26, 2018The Legislature expects to pass House Bills 4130 and 4059 that would make a significant investment in student transportation.
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The Week Ahead
Monday, February 26, 2018Be informed about what's happening next week that may affect education issues.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, February 26, 2018A roundup of action and important events in the Capitol in the past week
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House scheduled to vote on bill to make class size bargaining mandatory
Tuesday, February 20, 2018After several fits and stops, House Bill 4113 is scheduled for a vote today, Feb. 20, in the Oregon House of Representatives.
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Governor’s PERS bill moves out of committee
Tuesday, February 20, 2018Gov. Kate Brown appointed a task force in 2017 to look at options that could reduce the Public Employees Retirement System’s unfunded actuarial liability by $5 billion over five years.
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The Week Ahead
Tuesday, February 20, 2018Be informed about what's happening next week that may affect education issues.
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Legislative Briefs
Tuesday, February 20, 2018A roundup of action and important events in the Capitol in the past week
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Mandatory bargaining on class-size bill scheduled for hearing today
Monday, February 12, 2018The strongly contested House Bill 4113 on class-size negotiations with teacher unions received a relatively short hearing Wednesday.
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Joint Committee on Student Success begins yearlong effort to foster better schools
Monday, February 12, 2018The committee is working to create a plan to improve educational outcomes for students across the state.
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The Week Ahead
Monday, February 12, 2018Be informed about what's happening next week that may affect education issues.
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Legislative Briefs
Monday, February 12, 2018A roundup of action and important events in the Capitol in the past week
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The Week Ahead
Monday, February 5, 2018Be informed about what's happening next week that may affect education issues.
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Short session will get to the big issues quickly
Monday, February 5, 2018Legislators will be working on a variety of complex issues from the drop of the opening gavel.
Legislative Highlights - previous issues (Full issues in PDF format)
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Chalk up some wins for schools with bills that went nowhere
Wednesday, July 12, 2017“Wins” during session are not always about getting bills passed, but also include the bills that are stopped. Here are some of the bills that schools are better off without.
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Legislature concludes business, leaving revenue reform work undone
Wednesday, July 12, 2017It was a contentious and frustrating session. Legislators wrestled with raising revenue, cutting spending or some combination of both.
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Education-related bills await action as Legislature races to finish
Friday, June 30, 2017OSBA has compiled a summary of some of the education-related bills still awaiting action.
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Subcommittee considers bill adding flexibility to Measure 98 law
Friday, June 30, 2017The subcommittee sent House Bill 2246-A to the full Ways and Means Committee with a “Do pass” recommendation. It would create the statutory language for Measure 98 and establish the High School Graduation and College and Career Readiness Fund for the grants.
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Legislature approves funding at $8.2 billion for K-12 schools
Friday, June 30, 2017Senate Bill 5517 passed the House 31-28 on June 27, setting the State School Fund for the 2017-19 biennium.
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Bill Briefs
Friday, June 23, 2017Update on Senate Bill 1008-A (clean diesel and school buses) and House Bill 2597-A (distracted driving and school buses).
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Native American curriculum bill heard in funding committee
Friday, June 23, 2017Senate Bill 13 would require the Oregon Department of Education to make K-12 curriculum on the Native American experience in Oregon available by the 2019-20 school year.
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Funding committee hears Farm-to-School funding bill
Friday, June 23, 2017The Farm-to-School program awards grants to school districts to purchase Oregon food products and to develop agriculture- or garden-based educational activities.
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With no “Grand Bargain” in sight, revenue-raising bill turns up heat
Friday, June 23, 2017After a three-hour, often-acrimonious debate, the House passed a bill that would increase Oregon revenue by an estimated $196 million in 2017-19. House Bill 2060 limits the number of people who can take a business tax exemption created in the “Grand Bargain” of the 2013 special session.
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Bill Briefs
Friday, June 16, 2017Update on House Bill 2391 relating to the health care provider tax.
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Legislature restores recreational immunity to school districts
Friday, June 16, 2017Senate Bill 327 would fix a loophole created by the Oregon Supreme Court’s 2016 ruling in Johnson v. Gibson.
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Tax reform bill put under intense public and committee scrutiny
Friday, June 16, 2017HB 2830, the “bridge plan,” would temporarily increase the corporate income tax until a new commercial activity tax would begin.
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Pause for a look at the Legislature before mad dash to sine die
Friday, June 16, 2017This year the constitutional sine die is July 10. Although the session could end before then, it is unlikely because the Legislature still has a lot of unfinished business.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, June 16, 2017$8.2 billion State School Fund to get vote.
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Bill Briefs
Friday, June 9, 2017Updates on bills relating to the Educator Advancement Council, charter student acess to district extracurricular activities, and public bodies and immigration enforcement.
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$8.2 billion State School Fund bill moves quickly despite protests
Friday, June 9, 2017Senate Bill 5517 moved forward rapidly this past week. It passed the Senate with an overwhelming 25-5 vote, and could get a vote in the House as early as next week.
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The Week Ahead
Monday, June 12, 2017Updated: Committee holding hearings on corporate excise tax rates
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Bill Briefs
Friday, May 26, 2017Overview of bills relating to “Lunch shaming” and Child abuse investigation.
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Education funding committee hears governor’s education policy bills
Friday, May 26, 2017The Joint Ways and Means Education Subcommittee held its first hearing Wednesday on Gov. Kate Brown’s two main education policy initiatives remaining this legislative session: Senate Bills 182 and 183.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, May 26, 2017Be informed about what's happening next week that may affect education issues.
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Delay of physical education requirements moves to House floor without opposition
Friday, May 26, 2017A bill to modify and delay physical education instruction requirements that are scheduled to go into effect in July cleared the House Education Committee on Monday.
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Chamber deadline sharpens focus of Legislature’s work
Friday, May 26, 2017Although the session is trudging along slowly, the second chamber deadline is fast approaching.
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Bill Briefs
Friday, May 19, 2017Overview of House Bill 3318 relating to functional behavior analysis for students
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Clean diesel bill keeps on chugging
Friday, May 19, 2017For school districts, the diesel emissions issue affects buses with older diesel engines.
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Superintendents praise bonding programs
Friday, May 19, 2017Senate Bill 5505 is the legislative mechanism for authorizing billions of dollars in bonds for projects in the next biennium.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, May 19, 2017Be informed about what's happening next week that may affect education issues.
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Oregon revenue forecast offers hard numbers for budget wrangling
Friday, May 19, 2017The Office of Economic Analysis released its next-to-last Oregon revenue forecast for 2015-17 on May 16, predicting income will exceed projections made in 2015 by 2.4 percent and the state will have to return $407.8 million to taxpayers .
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Bill Briefs
Friday, May 5, 2017Overview of bills relating to pay equity, priority admissions for charter schools and Advanced Placement college credit
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Chief Education Office presents governor’s education policy initiatives
Friday, May 12, 2017The Chief Education Office appeared before the House Education Committee to make its case for Senate Bills 182 and 183, Gov. Kate Brown’s education policy initiatives for this legislative session.
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Legislature develops environmental hazards plan for schools
Friday, May 12, 2017Senate Bill 1062 would highlight possible environmental hazards and create the necessary transparency, education and process to ensure the community, students, staff and schools are informed about hazards and how schools will address them.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, May 5, 2017Be informed about what's happening next week that may affect education issues.
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Bill Briefs
Friday, May 5, 2017Overview of House Bill 2147 relating to graduation data
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Senate bill amending physical education requirements faces House scrutiny
Friday, May 5, 2017An amended Senate Bill 4 would give schools more time and flexibility to reach the standards passed by the 2007 Legislature.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, May 5, 2017The State Land Board takes on the Elliott State Forest question.
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Joint Tax Reform Committee works on plan to raise revenue
Friday, May 5, 2017The committee, one of five groups meeting to work on addressing the $1.6 billion state budget shortfall, is tasked with reforming Oregon’s corporate tax structure.
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Bill would fine-tune requirements for dyslexia screenings
Friday, May 5, 2017Senate Bill 1003 was drafted to ensure a smooth implementation of dyslexia screening in Oregon school districts.
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Bill Briefs
Friday, April 28, 2017Overview of bills relating to graduation data and activity access for charter schools.
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‘Structural imbalances’ have state budget near tipping point
Friday, April 28, 2017When you don’t have enough money to pay the bills, you need to either make more money, cut your costs or find some mixture of the two.
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Action Alert: Urge a school funding number of $8.4 billion
Friday, April 28, 2017Oregon’s students need you to once again raise your voices on their behalf.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, April 28, 2017Be informed about what's happening next week that may affect education issues.
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Bill Briefs
Friday, April 21, 2017Overview of bills relating to diesel emissions for school buses, citizenship test for diploma and teacher license grace period
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Co-chairs present devastating look at $7.8 billion school funding
Friday, April 21, 2017Legislators gave a preview on April 17 of what is to come for schools if there is no deal on revenue and cost containment this session.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, April 21, 2017Be informed about what's happening next week that may affect education issues.
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Bill would alter Measure 98 to give schools more flexibility
Friday, April 21, 2017The changes contained in House Bill 2246-A were crafted with the approval of the Measure 98 campaign, the Confederation of School Administrators and OSBA.
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Bill Briefs
Friday, April 14, 2017Overview of bills relating to public records requests, release to play after head injury, Charter admissions and delayed enrollment
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Education advocates find compromise on physical education standards
Friday, April 14, 2017Ten years ago, the Oregon Legislature set standards for physical education time and gave schools until the 2017-18 school year to comply. The 2007 bill, House Bill 3141, required 150 minutes of physical education per week for elementary school students and 225 minutes per week for middle school students.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, April 14, 2017Be informed about what's happening next week that may affect education issues.
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Bill Briefs
Friday, April 7, 2017Overview of bills relating to Quality Education Model funding, public contracting (update), district facilities open to tutors, Occupational therapist cap and ELL advisory group
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Bill raises issues with schools’ child protection responsibilities
Friday, April 7, 2017Senate Bill 101 would prohibit a school administrator or staff member from notifying anyone about a child abuse investigation in progress on school grounds. Current law already states this for public schools, but the bill would add authorization for students in private schools to be interviewed.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, April 7, 2017Be informed about what's happening next week that may affect education issues.
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Legislative deadline winnows one-quarter of bills
Friday, April 7, 2017Today marks a major hurdle for bills in the Legislature.For a bill to remain “alive,” it must be scheduled for a work session in the policy committee by today, April 7.
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Bills would protect schools from lawsuits by users of their lands
Friday, April 7, 2017The legal and technical wrangling around “recreational immunity” boils down to making public lands and facilities open to residents without sending insurance costs into the stratosphere.
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Hearings on higher education funding bill also look at state’s future
Friday, March 31, 2017Senate Bill 5524 would allocate $2.79 billion for higher education in Oregon.
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Senate Education Committee hears controversial CTE-STEM oversight bill
Friday, March 31, 2017Senate Bill 297 would make major changes to the system of oversight for career and technical education and science, technology, engineering and math programs.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, March 31, 2017Be informed about what's happening next week that may affect education issues.
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Pilot program would aim to simplify putting more nurses in schools
Friday, March 31, 2017A year-long task force charged with figuring out how to get more nurses in schools led to Senate Bill 111. Given the significant budget situation facing the legislature, the bill was amended to be moved forward as a pilot project, which would limit participation to nine school districts.
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Bill Briefs
Friday, March 24, 2017Overview of bills relating to the school improvement investment fund, the incentives for higher level mathematics courses and department of State Lands budget
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Paid family leave bill presents financial, logistical problems
Friday, March 24, 2017A packed hearing room heard testimony Thursday by a variety of workers who faced situations that paid time off could have made more bearable.
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School board experience prompts transit money bill
Friday, March 24, 2017The House Education Committee took testimony on HB 2693-A, which would allow for additional transportation reimbursements.
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Bill would change transfer process for assets like Elliott State Forest
Friday, March 24, 2017Senate Bill 847 would set up a land transfer account that would allow selling underperforming state trust lands to a tribe, federal agency or another state agency.
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Bill Briefs
Friday, March 17, 2017Overview of bills relating to urban renewal and superintendent of public instruction as statewide elected office
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OSBA presses for bill to force Quality Education Model funding
Friday, March 17, 2017House Joint Resolution 4 is one proposal to fully fund Oregon’s Quality Education Model.
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OSBA and COSA hold successful Legislative Day at the Capitol
Friday, March 17, 2017OSBA Board President Betty Reynolds told attendees, "Our top priority is adequate and stable funding for education."
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The Week Ahead
Friday, March 17, 2017Be informed about what's happening next week that may affect education issues.
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Unnecessary workplace bullying bill increases costs, opponents say
Friday, March 17, 2017OSBA testified in opposition to Senate Bill 292.
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Bill Briefs
Friday, March 10, 2017Overview of bills relating to virtual charter schools, high school graduate reporting, OEBB opt-out, PERS agency budget.
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School districts fight addition of hurdles to contracting rules
Friday, March 10, 2017Senate Bill 294 would make significant changes to the public contracting code, and proponents are seeking an amendment that would carve out cities and counties, leaving school districts as the target of the law change.
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Committee considers charter students’ access to activities
Friday, March 10, 2017Proposed amendments being drafted for Senate Bills 536 and 208 would allow district schools to charge charter school students participating in extracurricular activities.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, March 10, 2017Be informed about what's happening next week that may affect education issues.
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Bill Briefs
Friday, March 3, 2017Overview of bills relating to revenue on workers’ rights awareness, dedicated TAG funding, predictive scheduling in the workplace and statewide FFA support and funding.
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Budget puts many missions of Oregon education on display
Friday, March 3, 2017The Joint Ways and Means Education Subcommittee began its work on the education budget with an overview of the Oregon Department of Education this week.
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Legislature ponders use for excess in PERS contingency fund
Friday, March 3, 2017OSBA is interested in possibly retaining excess funding in the contingency reserve to help offset the difference when the PERS system does not meet the assumed rate. This would bring down the employer rate.
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Teacher Standards and Practices Commission wants to add staff
Friday, March 3, 2017The TSPC budget contains two new hiring requests since the last biennium: an additional customer service employee to respond to phone calls and an additional employee to implement database upgrades.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, March 3, 2017Be informed about what's happening next week that may affect education issues.
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Bill Briefs
Friday, February 24, 2017Overview of bills relating to revenue on marijuana sales, student safety and public records.
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Mandatory class size bargaining divides House Education Committee
Friday, February 24, 2017House Bill 2651 would make class size a mandatory subject of bargaining in contract negotiations between school districts and teachers.
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State revenue forecast delivers good news but not too good
Friday, February 24, 2017The Oregon revenue forecast is up almost $200 million from the December forecast.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, February 24, 2017Be informed about what's happening next week that may affect education issues.
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Bill Briefs
Friday, February 17, 2017Overview of bills relating to the Oregon Promise Program, student safety, Educator Advancement Council, and Early Indicator and Intervention System.
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Equity in education includes culturally relevant content, advocates for SB 204 say
Friday, February 17, 2017Senate Bill 204 aims to tackle Oregon’s persistent student achievement gap.
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Week of hearings spotlight depth of PERS problems
Friday, February 17, 2017The Public Employees Retirement System has a growing liability that is affecting the ability of cities, counties and school districts to provide services. PERS payments are dollars that schools will not get to spend in the classrooms.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, February 17, 2017Be informed about what's happening the week of Feb. 17-25 that may affect education issues.
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Bill Briefs
Friday, February 10, 2017Overview of Senate Bills 182 and 183
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Public records bill tries to ease some burden on school districts
Friday, February 10, 2017The attorney general’s task force looking at Oregon’s public records laws was charged with examining four issues: timelines, fees, exemptions and a review process.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, February 10, 2017List of scheduled legislative hearings and work sessions for the week of Feb. 13.
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Last chance (well, not really) to introduce bills
Friday, February 10, 2017Until Feb. 28 legislators can introduce an unlimited number of bills. After the 28th legislators are limited to five “priority” bills.
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School board members deliver Oregon message to Congress
Friday, February 3, 2017Members of the Oregon School Boards Association board of directors and legislative policy committee visited Washington, D.C.,to meet with Oregon’s congressional delegation as part of the National School Boards Association's 2017 Advocacy Institute.
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Budget town halls need to hear voices for education spending
Friday, February 3, 2017The Legislature’s Joint Ways and Means Committee has announced dates and locations for town hall meetings, creating an opportunity for school board members statewide to tell legislators that they need to fully fund K-12 education in Oregon.
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The Week Ahead
Monday, February 6, 2017List of scheduled legislative hearings and work sessions for the week of Feb. 6.
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Advocacy Institute brings Oregon perspective to D.C.
Friday, January 27, 2017School board members are heading to Washington, D.C., this weekend to tell the Oregon story.
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OSBA team hits the road to attend legislative receptions statewide
Friday, January 27, 2017Legislative receptions give parents, educators and other members of the community a chance to discuss issues with local legislators in a relaxed and informal setting.
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Find out what your legislators are doing
Friday, January 27, 2017Did you know that you can use the Legislature’s e-subscribe notifications to receive email notifications from your local legislators?
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K-12 education faces cuts in legislative budget framework
Friday, January 20, 2017Jan. 19 the co-chairs of the Joint Committee on Ways and Means delivered a preview of the anticipated budget for the upcoming session.
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Oregon Senate and House of Representatives rosters
Friday, January 20, 2017Find your legislator's contact information.
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Add your voice to call for better education; we’ll help you
Friday, January 20, 2017This session OSBA legislative services will need your help advocating for state funding of education that avoids budget cuts and puts students and districts first.
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A quick look ahead
Friday, January 13, 2017Important legislative dates to remember
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OSBA Legislative Services enters new session with new team
Friday, January 13, 2017The retirement of Betsy Miller-Jones, OSBA's former executive director, has also brought changes to the Legislative Services Team.
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Three more school board members add education voices to Legislature
Friday, January 13, 2017This election cycle brought three more current school board members to the legislative ranks: Janeen Sollman, Diego Hernandez and David Brock Smith.
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Bill Briefs
Friday, June 2, 2017Updates on bills relating to the Healthy and Safe Schools Plan and “lunch shaming”
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Bills affecting bus drivers and drones beat legislative deadline
Friday, June 2, 2017HB 2597 would expand the 2007 distracted driving law; HB 3047 would provide some flexibility for drone users such as schools and law enforcement.
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Subcommittee reshuffled to move bill calling for $8.2 billion State School Fund
Friday, June 2, 2017The amended Senate Bill 5517 will now move to the full Ways and Means Committee.
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The Week Ahead
Friday, June 2, 2017Be informed about what's happening next week that may affect education issues.