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SCR 4

Requiring that a committee of the Legislative Assembly may adopt an amendment to a legislative measure only if the chief sponsor of the measure approves the amendment prior to its adoption by the committee.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by David Smith

Oregon bill requires committee amendments to have chief sponsor approval before adoption, centralizing amendment authority with sponsors over committee discretion.

In committee upon adjournment.
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Bill Summary · SCR 4

Legislative bill overview

SCR 4 would require that legislative committees obtain explicit approval from a bill's chief sponsor before adopting any amendments to that bill. This is a procedural rule change that would apply to the Oregon Legislative Assembly's internal amendment process.

Why is this important

This rule change affects how efficiently and democratically legislatures can modify bills during the committee process. It centralizes amendment authority with the chief sponsor, potentially slowing deliberation but also potentially protecting a sponsor's legislative intent from substantial revision without their knowledge or consent.

Potential points of contention

  • Limits committee autonomy: Committees traditionally have broad authority to amend bills. This requirement could diminish committee members' ability to refine legislation based on expert input and constituent feedback.
  • May slow legislative process: Adding a sponsor approval requirement for every amendment could create procedural delays, particularly if sponsors are unavailable or unresponsive.
  • Protects sponsor intent vs. enables oversight: Supporters argue it preserves sponsors' legislative vision; critics counter that it could shield bills from necessary corrections or improvements that committees identify.

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

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