Committee advances Task Force on Ethical Procurement bill, refers measure to Ways and Means

The Oregon Senate Labor and Business Committee on May 22 voted to advance House Bill 2425A and requested referral to the Joint Committee on Ways and Means. The bill would establish an 11‑member Task Force on Ethical Procurement to devise methods for verifying identities of manufacturers, distributors, vendors or suppliers whose products public bodies procure, with particular emphasis on electric vehicles and certain electronic energy systems.

Committee staff (Erin) told members the task force would examine whether production, sourcing, assembly or transportation of procured products involves forced labor or oppressive child labor. The staff noted the task force would sunset on Dec. 31, 2026, and that the bill includes an emergency clause. The A5 amendment before the committee removes a requirement related to devising methods specifically for solar photovoltaic energy systems. Staff reported a fiscal impact statement had been issued and that there was no revenue impact; because of fiscal considerations the committee should refer the bill to Ways and Means for further review.

During the work session several senators said they supported the bill’s goal but urged broader scope and technical changes. One senator said procurement concerns extend beyond EVs and solar to other industries where exploitation has been documented and encouraged sponsors to consider expanding the industries under review. Another senator, speaking from long‑standing interest in labor and human rights issues, said the bill sends an important signal but hoped Ways and Means could address fiscal questions and possibly broaden the list of products under review.

Members also discussed the task force’s composition and suggested including the Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) or other labor representatives as appropriate. The committee’s stated intention was to move the base bill to Ways and Means rather than to advance it with the A5 amendment; Senator Hayden moved the bill to the floor with the recommendation that it be referred to Ways and Means, and the motion passed by roll call. Senators Hayden, Patterson, Pham and Vice Chair Bonham recorded aye votes; Chair Taylor was excused.

Because the record will go to Ways and Means, staff and sponsors expect further fiscal and scope review there. The committee adjourned after about 25 minutes of recorded business and said it plans additional meetings to discuss the broader business climate in Oregon.