HB 3638 Establishes One-Year Waiting Period for Legislators Seeking Agency Positions
SALEM— Rep. Greg Smith (R-Heppner) today voted to pass a bipartisan ethics reform bill to establish a one-year “waiting period” on former legislators before they can seek and obtain non-elected positions in the state’s executive branch.
“Oregonians are understandably cynical about potential conflicts of interest in government, especially when legislators exchange their elected office for high-paying agency positions,” Rep. Smith said. “To eliminate any doubt, I supported HB 3638 to impose a one-year “waiting period” on legislators before they can seek and obtain these salaried, non-elected positions in the executive branch.”
HB 3638 was a product of bipartisan compromise and was unanimously supported on the House Floor. While the bill imposes a one-year waiting period for legislators to take agency positions, it exempts positions that require Senate confirmation, which are already subject to public scrutiny and debate.
An additional compromise allows a former member to take a position in state government as long as recruitment for position is advertised, the minimum qualifications do not include legislative service, and employer considers other qualified applicants. Rep. Smith said this measure ensures a fair and competitive hiring process for all Oregonians seeking state employment.
“This bill is an example of how Democrats and Republicans can work together to improve Oregonians’ confidence in their legislature,” Rep. Smith said. “The Senate should approve this bill and send it to the Governor’s desk before adjournment.”
