The Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on General Government convened on May 1, 2025, to address critical staffing issues within the Oregon Legislature. The meeting highlighted the challenges faced by legislative staff, particularly regarding job sustainability and the impact on constituent services.

Representative Travis Nelson opened the discussion by emphasizing the importance of year-round staffing for legislative offices. He noted that many staff members currently work part-time, which is unsustainable given the full-time demands of their roles. Nelson argued that providing full-time positions would not only help retain experienced personnel but also enhance the Legislature's ability to serve Oregonians effectively throughout the year.

The conversation continued with testimonies from various legislative staff members, including Andrew Hall and Caleb Hayes. Hall shared his personal experience of fluctuating employment status, which has led to mental strain and inefficiencies in government operations. He stressed that consistent staffing is essential for effective legislation and responsive constituent services.

Hayes, serving as Chief of Staff, echoed these sentiments, detailing how reduced hours for staff have hindered their ability to provide timely assistance to constituents. He pointed out that the lack of year-round legislative assistants (LAs) compromises the Legislature's capacity to oversee agencies and manage policy effectively.

The committee acknowledged the presence of numerous legislative staff members advocating for improved staffing conditions, indicating a strong collective concern about the current employment model. The discussion underscored the need for legislative leadership to collaborate with staff to find sustainable solutions that would enhance the operational capacity of the Legislature.

As the meeting progressed, the committee planned to hear from additional witnesses, reflecting the urgency of addressing these staffing challenges. The session concluded with a commitment to continue the dialogue on how to better support legislative staff, ensuring that they can meet the needs of Oregonians year-round.