Salem, Oregon — A group of eight Republican lawmakers has raised concerns that a powerful union in Oregon may have violated state lobbying laws during the recent legislative session. The accusations center around the Oregon chapter of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), which represents over 70,000 workers across the state.
Last month, the lawmakers submitted a formal complaint to the Oregon Government Ethics Commission, alleging that SEIU provided misleading information in letters sent to legislators in late April. These letters aimed to garner support for a bill that sought to establish a board responsible for setting pay and workplace standards for caregivers supporting the elderly and individuals with disabilities. Advocates viewed the bill as crucial for many direct care workers, although it ultimately did not pass.
In their allegations, the lawmakers claimed that the letters, which appeared to be individual postcards from union members, were notably identical in content. The complaint included evidence comprising scans of over 1,000 letters sent to a single lawmaker. Each letter urged legislators to support House Bill 3838, emphasizing the urgent need for improved care standards in the state’s long-term care system.
According to the complaint, at least two individuals named as supporters on the postcards never actually endorsed the bill. They contended that their names were used without permission after they simply filled out a form linked to an SEIU Facebook post encouraging members to express their support for a workforce standards board.
SEIU spokesperson Pati Urias dismissed the complaint as a politically motivated distraction and stated it contained inaccuracies, though she did not elaborate on these claims. Urias insisted that the union follows ethical guidelines and plans to cooperate fully with the investigation process, emphasizing their commitment to improving care for vulnerable populations rather than engaging in political theatrics.
Additionally, the union’s privacy policy, referenced in the complaint, noted its right to use submitted information in various publications, possibly without the consent of the individuals involved. As such, the lawmakers argued that SEIU’s actions may have constituted a misrepresentation of public support, violating state ethics laws.
Oregon ethics regulations prohibit lobbyists from making false statements or knowingly providing misleading documents to legislative officials. Rep. Ed Diehl, one of the lawmakers behind the complaint, criticized the union’s actions as unethical and detrimental to public trust.
The Oregon Government Ethics Commission has confirmed that it is reviewing the complaint, which could lead to a preliminary report within 135 days. If violations are found, the SEIU may face fines of up to $5,000 per infraction.
A long-standing contention exists between Republican lawmakers and Democrats concerning the influence of labor unions on state policies. Many Republicans argue that Democrats often align with unions on issues perceived as overly favorable to organized labor.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions in Oregon’s political landscape, particularly concerning the roles of labor unions and ethics in lobbying practices.
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