The Joint Committee on Ways and Means convened on June 18, 2025, to discuss several key issues affecting the Oregon Legislature, with a particular focus on legislative staffing and compensation.

During the meeting, Senator DeRuy highlighted the previous practice of sharing excess funds among legislative offices, which he believes positively impacted staffing levels. He noted that senior members often require less support due to their experience, suggesting that the previous rules allowed for more effective resource allocation. However, he expressed concern that this practice may have backfired, indicating a need for reevaluation.

Senator DeRuy also raised a critical point regarding legislative salaries, arguing that the current compensation structure may deter talented individuals from pursuing or remaining in legislative roles. He emphasized the importance of competitive salaries for retention and attracting skilled personnel, stating that the turnover rate poses a significant challenge for the legislature. His comments suggest a growing recognition among lawmakers of the need to address compensation to ensure a stable and effective legislative body.

The meeting also included procedural discussions, with Senator McLean moving an amendment to House Bill 5016, although details on the amendment were not elaborated upon in the transcript.

Overall, the discussions reflect ongoing concerns about staffing and compensation within the Oregon Legislature, highlighting the need for strategic changes to enhance legislative effectiveness and retain experienced members.