2026 Regular Session, 2026R1 - Senate Chamber [Source] Translate

The meeting commenced with the Senate coming to order, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Senator Neron Mislin. John Pugsley, the legislative director for Representative Sanchez, performed a piece by Duke Ellington during the invocation. Senator Patterson recognized Blythe Roach, a page from Abiqua School, and Senator McClain introduced his legislative intern, Henry Hankins. Senator Brock Smith welcomed Director General May Lin from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office and former Representative Brian Clem. Senator Hayden acknowledged a group of homeschoolers visiting the Senate. Senator Golden recognized his staff member, Kevin Stein, and honored former staff members of Senator Woods. Senator Neron Mislin welcomed attendees for the Senator Woods Memorial, highlighting their contributions. Senator Robertson raised concerns about the rising costs of the I-205 Abernathy Bridge modernization project, questioning fund allocation. Senator Starr supported the Oregon Jobs Act, while Senator Reynolds commemorated the anniversary of Executive Order 9066, reflecting on civil liberties. Senator Gorsuch expressed confusion over a recent decision regarding bus parking on Interstate 205. The meeting included a discussion on the locations of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in the Capitol. Senator Pisanski clarified a previous statement on Senate Bill 1548 regarding cannabis packaging, emphasizing the need for education on cannabis safety. Senator McClain discussed Senate Bill 1545 about corner crossings on public lands and the formation of a work group to engage stakeholders. Senator Gerard expressed concern about the representation of Oregonians in the Senate. The meeting included messages from the House about the passage of several bills, followed by a motion from Senator Starr to suspend certain reading requirements for bills, which was approved. Senator Jama requested unanimous consent for guests on the Senate floor for the third reading of Senate Concurrent Resolution 206, in memoriam of State Senator Aaron Lionel Woods. Senators shared memories and tributes, highlighting Woods' contributions, character, and impact. The resolution recognized his achievements and was adopted unanimously. The meeting featured a tribute to Senator Woods, emphasizing his commitment to public service and his ability to connect with people. Colleagues shared personal anecdotes and highlighted his advocacy for diversity, equity, and inclusion. The resolution detailed Woods' background, including his military service and career in technology, and concluded with a call for support from the legislative assembly. The Senate then recessed and resumed with actions on executive appointments and the introduction of several Senate bills. Senate Bill 1510 on taxation, Senate Bill 1515 on wrongful convictions, Senate Bill 1517 on civil litigation, Senate Bill 1575 on hospice licensure, and Senate Bill 1587 on data brokers were introduced, all declaring emergencies and passed to the calendar. Senate Bill 1579, addressing false reports of child abuse, was prioritized. Senator Thatcher advocated for stricter penalties for intentional false reports, leading to its passage with 26 votes in favor. Senate Bill 1516 on public safety was introduced, including components on grant administration and regulations on automatic license plate readers, passing with 27 votes in favor. Senate Bill 1521 on affordable housing was introduced by Senator Pham, amending inclusionary zoning policy, and passed with 21 votes in favor. Senate Bill 1565, increasing the snowmobile licensing fee, was introduced by Senator Starr and passed with 20 votes in favor. Senate Bill 1571, targeting nicotine pouches, was discussed, emphasizing public health concerns. The bill passed with 26 votes in favor. The meeting included the first reading of several House bills and concluded with acknowledgments of the challenges of the legislative session and gratitude for support shown to Senator Woods' family. The Senate was adjourned until the next scheduled meeting.