Bill > HB3638

This bill modifies Oregon state law regarding how and when a person can file a grievance if they believe a public governing body has improperly conducted an executive session. Currently, individuals have 30 days to file a written grievance about potential violations of open meeting laws. The bill extends this timeframe to 90 days specifically for grievances related to executive sessions, which are closed meetings where a governing body can discuss sensitive topics like personnel matters or legal consultations. The bill defines "record" as any retrievable information, whether on paper or electronically, and requires that the grievance include the identity of the person filing it and meet any additional requirements set by the Oregon Government Ethics Commission. When a public body receives such a grievance, they must provide a written response within 21 days, either denying the violation, admitting to the violation without penalty, or taking steps to address the violation such as rescinding the decision or acknowledging the mistake in a public meeting. The public body must also send a copy of the grievance and its response to the Oregon Government Ethics Commission.

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3638