In a significant move aimed at enhancing the judicial system in Oregon, the Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Public Safety has approved a measure that will increase judicial salaries and promote accountability within the judiciary. This decision, made during a meeting on June 12, 2025, is expected to have a lasting impact on the state's legal framework and its administration.

The measure includes two primary salary increases for judges across various courts, including the Supreme Court and Circuit Court. The first increase of 10% will take effect on July 1, 2025, while a second 10% increase is scheduled for July 1, 2027. These adjustments are part of a broader effort to ensure that judicial compensation remains competitive and reflects the responsibilities of these critical roles.

In addition to salary increases, the measure introduces enhanced judicial accountability measures. This includes the establishment of a judicial education requirement and the creation of an ombudsman's office within the state court administrator's office. These initiatives aim to set clear standards for judicial performance and ensure that judges are held accountable for their actions.

The financial implications of this measure are significant, with an estimated cost of $11.3 million from the general fund for the 2025-2027 biennium, which includes other payroll expenses. The budget also allocates $1.9 million specifically for the enhanced accountability initiatives, which will support the establishment of six permanent full-time positions in the new ombudsman's office.

The committee expressed gratitude to the Oregon Judicial Department for their collaboration in developing this measure, emphasizing the importance of addressing both salary and accountability in tandem. The motion to adopt the measure passed without objection, and it will now move to the full committee for further consideration.

This legislative action reflects a commitment to improving the judicial system in Oregon, ensuring that judges are not only fairly compensated but also held to high standards of accountability, ultimately benefiting the community at large.