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Understanding Oregon's Legislative Process
A guide to how laws are made and how to participate in the state's 2026 legislative session
Feb. 4, 2026 at 8:15am
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This article provides an overview of how the Oregon Legislature works, including the process for introducing, debating, and passing bills, as well as how citizens can get involved by testifying, submitting written testimony, and attending public hearings and floor sessions.
Why it matters
The Oregon Legislature's actions have wide-ranging impacts on all Oregonians, from state budgets and taxes to new laws and policies. Understanding the legislative process empowers citizens to effectively engage with their elected representatives and have a voice in the laws that govern them.
The details
The Oregon Legislature is made up of the House of Representatives (60 members) and the Senate (30 members). Democrats currently hold a majority in both chambers. Each bill introduced goes through a committee process with public hearings before potentially advancing to a floor vote in both the House and Senate. The governor can then sign, veto, or allow a bill to become law without their signature. Citizens can participate by testifying at public hearings, submitting written testimony, and attending legislative sessions.
- The 2026 Oregon legislative session convened on Monday, February 3, 2026.
- The session is scheduled to last 160 days, ending in late June 2026.
- Committees must hold work sessions on bills by February 9, 2026 for them to advance further.
The players
Oregon Legislature
The state's legislative body, consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate, which is responsible for crafting and passing state laws.
Tina Kotek
The current Governor of Oregon, who has the power to sign, veto, or allow bills passed by the legislature to become law without her signature.
What’s next
The Oregon Legislature will continue its 2026 session through late June, with key deadlines coming up in early February for committees to advance bills. Citizens can continue to monitor the legislative process and provide input by testifying, submitting written testimony, and attending public hearings and floor sessions.
The takeaway
Understanding the Oregon Legislature's process for making laws and the various ways citizens can participate is crucial for Oregonians to have a voice in the policies and decisions that impact their communities and daily lives.
