Oregon’s legislature kicked off the 2023 long session on Tuesday, January 17. For the first time since 2020, lawmakers, lobbyists, and legislative staff all convened in the Capitol building for a non-virtual session. While the Democrats continue to maintain a majority, the legislative makeup looks vastly different than in years past. Roughly two-thirds of the House are either new members or have not served in an in-person session. This is coupled with the fact that both chambers have new leadership, and Oregon has a new governor, Tina Kotek. Sen. Rob Wagner (D-Lake Oswego) will begin his first term as Senate president, taking the reins from Peter Courtney who retired after serving in that role since 2003. With new members, new leadership, new culture, and the future of a newly renovated building – Oregon’s session is off to a unique start.
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