Senate adopts resolution honoring former House Speaker Phil Lang

The Oregon Senate unanimously adopted House Concurrent Resolution 35 on the floor, honoring the life and public service of former House Speaker Philip D. Lang, who served as speaker from 1975 to 1979.

"Oregon has lost one of its most committed public servants," Senator Manning said while presenting the resolution, which the Rules Committee reported unanimously and the House previously approved. Manning recounted Lang’s long ties to Oregon, military service, legislative career and later public roles, and noted Lang and his wife Jenny were present on the floor for the adoption.

Colleagues offered personal tributes describing Lang as a unifying presence who worked across the aisle. "I don't think there's a better person that exemplifies what a person should be in this building than Phil Lang," Senator Gerard said. Senator Frederick recalled Lang's mentorship from early days in the legislature; others cited his leadership on equal rights, budgeting and efforts to bridge urban‑rural divides.

The clerk recorded a unanimous vote; the resolution was declared adopted after floor consideration. Senate proceedings included several brief remarks thanking Jenny Lang for her attendance and praising Phil Lang's decades of public service.

The resolution honors Lang’s military service, legislative career and later work on state boards and foundations. The measure directs that the Senate’s highest honor be bestowed in his memory and recognized his contributions to the state.