1. 2014 OBA GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS UPDATE
Presented by:
Kevin T. Christiansen
OBA Government Affairs Director

2. 2014 OREGON LEGISLATIVE SESSION
In 2014 Oregon held its second constitutionally authorized, even-year session. The session began on February 3rd and adjourned March 7.
Short sessions were originally sold to voters as necessary to address budget matters and emergencies
In reality these sessions have become very political
In many cases the short session does not allow adequate time for proper vetting of bills
Reform has been discussed but there is a lack of political will to change
The Governor’s Office is currently held by Democrat John Kitzhaber.
The Oregon House of Representatives is controlled by Democrats 34 to 26.
The Oregon Senate is also controlled by Democrats 16 to 14.

3. Bills, Resolutions & Memorials … Oh My!
More than 250 bills were introduced during the 2014 legislative session. The following is a small sample of the key bills with potential impact on the banking industry:
Passed
Limitations on Bad Faith Patent Infringement Claims (SB 1540)
Killed, But Likely Back in 2015
Payoff Letter Content Requirements (HB 4033)
Convenience Check Legislation (HB 4083)
Finanical Aid Regulation (HB 4102)
Third Party Enforcement of Tax Liens (HB 4112)
Class Action Modifications (HB 4143)
Work in Progress
UCC Article 9 Financing Statements and Identification of Debtor (SB 1552)

4. But Wait, There’s More:
A variety of big policy proposals that were discussed, but did not pass in February (but could be – or will be – back in 2015):
Recreational Marijuana (initiative likely to qualify for November ballot)
The Columbia River Crossing Bridge
A Publically Run Retirement Savings Program
Cover Oregon Reform

5. 2014 Election Cycle Federal Elections
Senator Merkley & All 5 Members of Oregon’s House Delegation Are Up in 2014
Challenger Wehby could make the Merkley race competitive
House seats likely safe for the incumbents
Statewide Elections
Governor Kitzhaber: Running for an Unprecedented 4th Term
Oregon has not elected a Republican for governor since 1982
No Other Statewide Officeholders Up for Election

6. 2014 Election Cycle (con’t)
Legislative Races
House of Representatives: All 60 Seats are Up in 2014
Democrats hold a four seat majority and will face tough challenges to retain those seats
Can Republicans gain seats in Portland suburbs to narrow the margin?
Senate: 15 of 30 Seats Up in 2014
Senate races are where the action will be
16 to 14 margin means business friendly Democrats have power – will it continue?
5 to 7 races will likely determine the outcome

7. Burning Questions for 2015
Who will win control of the Governor’s Office and Legislature in November?
Will the political environment continue to improve for the banking industry?
Will Oregon voters approve the recreational use of marijuana?
Is tax reform on the agenda for 2015 in Oregon?
Will the economy continue to improve?

8. Stay Engaged and Let Your Voice be Heard!!!
How You Can Help:
Give to BankPAC
Participate in Grassroots
Be active in your Bankers Association
THANK YOU!