Oregon Secretary of State unveils budget for campaign finance and cybersecurity improvements

In a pivotal meeting of the Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on General Government, Oregon lawmakers gathered to discuss the budgetary needs of the Secretary of State's office and its various divisions. The atmosphere was charged with the urgency of ensuring that essential functions, from election oversight to public records management, are adequately funded.

The Secretary of State's budget proposal, which includes a significant allocation of $2.7 million from the general fund, aims to continue the implementation of House Bill 4024. This legislation, passed in the previous session, focuses on campaign finance reforms and bolstering cybersecurity measures. The committee highlighted the importance of these initiatives, particularly in light of ongoing concerns about election security.

Among the notable adjustments discussed was the introduction of a new internal auditor position, a move prompted by the need for enhanced oversight within the agency. This position, funded through other revenue sources, is crucial as the Secretary of State's office currently lacks an internal auditor, which is a statutory requirement. Additionally, a proposed $500,000 investment in cybersecurity infrastructure aims to strengthen the agency's defenses against potential threats, with a portion of this funding designated as one-time support.

The Elections Division also featured prominently in the discussions, with a proposed budget of over $2.2 million aimed at further implementing House Bill 4024. This funding will support seven new positions, reflecting the growing demands on the division as it navigates the complexities of modern electoral processes.

Another significant topic was the funding for the state's voters pamphlet, which has faced long-standing underfunding issues. The committee proposed an additional $710,000 to ensure that the pamphlet can be produced adequately during non-presidential election cycles, addressing a critical gap in voter information resources.

As the meeting concluded, the committee moved to recommend the budget adjustments to Senate Bill 5537, setting the stage for further legislative action. The discussions underscored the importance of a well-resourced Secretary of State's office in maintaining the integrity of Oregon's electoral processes and public trust in government operations. With these budget proposals, lawmakers aim to ensure that the agency can effectively fulfill its responsibilities in the coming biennium.