A new bill aimed at protecting public officials from threats and harassment has gained traction in the Oregon Senate. The proposed legislation establishes a new crime of threatening a public official, categorizing a first offense as a class A misdemeanor and escalating it to a class 3 felony for repeat offenders.

The urgency for this bill stems from alarming trends across the nation, where public servants—including city councilors, school board members, and judges—are increasingly targeted for simply doing their jobs. A 2021 study by the National League of Cities revealed that 81 percent of local officials reported experiencing harassment, threats, or violence, with over 85 percent noting that the situation is worsening.

Current Oregon laws address offenses like harassment and menacing but do not specifically protect public officials from being targeted due to their roles. The existing legal framework often requires a high threshold to prove an imminent threat, which can delay necessary action until situations escalate. This new bill aims to close that gap while still respecting constitutional protections for free speech.

Supporters of the bill emphasize that serving in public office should not come with the expectation of fear or intimidation. They argue that this legislation is a crucial step toward ensuring the safety and well-being of public officials, urging their colleagues to support the measure. As discussions continue, the bill represents a significant move to bolster protections for those who serve their communities.