Oregon Senate Bill 644 initiates audit of Oregon Food Bank's political activities

In a recent meeting of the Senate Committee on Human Services, lawmakers discussed Senate Bill 644, which aims to establish an audit committee for the Oregon Food Bank. This initiative comes amid growing concerns about the organization’s financial practices and its involvement in political activities. The proposed bill mandates an audit of the Food Bank's financial transactions from December 2021 to January 2025, with a report due to the legislature by November 15, 2025.

The discussions highlighted a significant shift in the Oregon Food Bank's operations, with some legislators arguing that the organization has strayed from its original mission of alleviating hunger. Critics pointed to the Food Bank's political statements and lobbying efforts, suggesting that these activities have eroded public trust and may violate civil rights laws. For instance, the Food Bank faced backlash for its stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which led to the withdrawal of support from some Jewish organizations.

Supporters of the bill, including State Representative Shelley Bossard Davis, emphasized the need for legislative oversight to ensure that taxpayer dollars are used appropriately. They argued that the Food Bank's political activities could compromise its mission and that an audit would provide transparency regarding how state funds are allocated.

The meeting also touched on broader implications for other community-based organizations receiving state funding. Lawmakers expressed a desire to extend similar oversight to all organizations that benefit from taxpayer dollars, ensuring that public funds are not used for political purposes.

As the committee continues to deliberate on the bill, the outcomes could reshape how the Oregon Food Bank and similar organizations operate, potentially restoring public confidence in their commitment to serving the community. The proposed audit represents a critical step in holding these organizations accountable for their use of state resources, aligning with the legislature's fiduciary responsibilities to taxpayers.