Oregon's House Committee on Rules convened on June 25, 2025, to discuss critical amendments to campaign finance reform legislation, with significant implications for the state's political landscape. The committee faced strong opposition from various stakeholders regarding a proposed delay in the implementation of campaign contribution limits and disclosure requirements.

Key testimony came from Kate Titus of Common Cause, who expressed concern over what she described as a last-minute attempt to postpone essential reforms. Titus emphasized that Oregonians have long awaited campaign finance limits, which were initially agreed upon under pressure from voters and advocacy groups. She urged the committee not to support any measures that would stall progress, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability in government.

Dan Meek, representing Honest Elections Oregon, echoed these sentiments, noting that the majority of public testimony submitted was against the proposed amendments. He argued that the timeline for implementing the reforms was already generous, with limits set to take effect in 2027 and disclosure requirements in 2028. Meek criticized the Secretary of State's office for not adequately preparing for these changes, suggesting that the necessary technical fixes could have been addressed without extending the timeline further.

Norman Turl, from the League of Women Voters of Oregon, also opposed the amendment, stating that extending the implementation period would break commitments made to voters. He pointed out that other states have successfully implemented similar reforms without such delays, questioning the Oregon government's capacity to manage the process effectively.

Jason Kafoury, an attorney with extensive experience in campaign finance reform, warned that delaying the implementation could severely damage public trust in the legislature. He stressed the importance of maintaining the current timeline to uphold the integrity of the reform process and meet the demands of Oregonians who have long sought to reduce the influence of money in politics.

The committee's discussions highlighted a growing tension between the need for timely reform and the challenges of implementation. As stakeholders continue to voice their concerns, the outcome of this legislative session could significantly shape the future of campaign finance in Oregon, with many advocating for immediate action to ensure that the voices of everyday citizens are not drowned out by wealthy donors. The committee's next steps will be closely watched as they navigate these complex issues in the coming weeks.