Oregon is implementing a Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance program (Paid Leave Oregon) funded by a new payroll tax. As this new tax takes effect on Jan. 1, 2023, we wanted to provide more information about this change.

The Oregon Employment Department (OED) has added more rules to the Oregon Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (PFMLI) program, providing clarification for employers.

Oregon has enacted a final rule that requires employers to provide protections to workers that are exposed to high heat. The final rule is effective immediately.

Oregon has enacted a final rule that requires employers to take certain safety steps related to wildfire smoke exposure. The final rule took effect on July 1, 2022.

On April 15, 2022, Oregon Governor Kate Brown signed into law House Bill 4002 (HB 4002), which establishes the maximum hours an agricultural worker may work before overtime pay is required. Under current law, Oregon employers are not required to pay overtime to agricultural workers.

Oregon has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 1514) that temporarily re-defines compensation under the state’s Equal Pay Act (the Act). Senate Bill 1514 is effective immediately and is scheduled to end on Sept. 28, 2022.

Oregon has enacted a Final Rule (BLI 3-2022) that permanently allows an employee to use sick time for certain public health emergencies. The Final Rule is effective immediately.

The Oregon Department of Revenue (DOR) has released guidance for out-of-state and nonresident employers.

The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division has amended its rule (OAR 437-001-0744), which covers requirements for masks, physical distancing, and cleaning to combat COVID-19. The amended rule went into effect Dec. 21, 2021.

Oregon has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 569) that prohibits an employer from requiring an employee or prospective employee to possess or present a valid driver's license as a condition of employment or continued employment. Senate Bill 569 takes effect on January 1, 2022.