Bill > SB367

This bill restricts the Governor and other state executive branch officials from mandating business closures during declared states of emergency or public health emergencies. Specifically, the bill prevents state authorities from ordering lawfully operating businesses to close or suspend operations under two key sections of Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS): 401.165 to 401.236 (which covers general emergency powers) and 433.441 to 433.452 (which covers public health emergencies). This means that if a business was legally operating before an emergency declaration, it cannot be forced to shut down by state officials, regardless of the type of emergency. The bill includes an emergency clause, which means it would take effect immediately upon passage, reflecting the legislators' view that protecting businesses from mandatory closures is urgently important for public peace, health, and safety. By adding these provisions to existing law, the bill aims to provide greater protection for businesses during emergency situations, preventing potential economic disruption caused by government-mandated closures.

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB367