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Bill

SB 736

Relating to investigations of child abuse involving the child's parent; and declaring an emergency.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Willy Chotzen and 12 co-sponsors

SB 736 modified child abuse investigation procedures when parents are subjects, but Oregon's Governor vetoed the emergency measure on June 25, 2025.

Veto sustained in accordance with Art. V, sec. 15b, Oregon Constitution.
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Bill Summary · SB 736

Legislative bill overview

SB 736 sought to modify Oregon's child abuse investigation procedures, specifically regarding cases where a child's parent is the subject of investigation. The bill included an emergency clause, suggesting its sponsors viewed the changes as time-sensitive. The measure was vetoed by the Governor on June 25, 2025, and the veto was sustained.

Why is this important

Child abuse investigation protocols directly affect how quickly and thoroughly suspected abuse is examined, potentially influencing child safety outcomes and family rights. Changes to these procedures can balance the state's interest in protecting children against parents' due process rights and privacy concerns during investigations.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of investigation changes: The bill likely modified which investigative methods, timelines, or notification procedures apply when parents are subjects of abuse allegations, which could either strengthen protections or be seen as creating procedural obstacles
  • Emergency clause justification: The declared emergency suggests urgency, but the Governor's veto indicates disagreement about whether the situation warranted bypassing normal legislative processes
  • Investigative authority vs. parental rights: Balancing the Department of Human Services' investigative powers against parental privacy and due process rights during ongoing investigations

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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