Bill > HB2314

This bill requires the Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) and the State Department of Agriculture (ODA) to establish a memorandum of understanding (MOU) by January 2, 2026, which will outline how they jointly administer and enforce safety and health standards for agricultural labor housing. The MOU will allow the ODA to perform functions typically handled by DCBS, such as issuing permits, conducting inspections, and assessing civil penalties, while maintaining DCBS oversight. When developing the MOU, the agencies must consider using voluntary measures like education and demonstration projects, explore making ODA the lead agency for these standards, and recognize the public interest in improving agricultural worker housing conditions to protect both worker welfare and the environment. The agencies are required to consult with each other when adopting related rules, and the bill will take effect 91 days after the 2025 legislative session adjourns. The provisions align with federal Occupational Safety and Health Act requirements and the state's broader workplace safety objectives outlined in Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) 654.003.

Labor and Employment

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB2314