Committee advances two resolutions to change session timing and remove 'germaneness' rule

Representative McQueen presented two related joint resolutions aimed at restructuring the legislative calendar and internal controls. HJR6 would move the biennial 60/30 cycle to two 45‑day sessions, clarify when veto overrides could occur and remove the 30-day requirement for odd-year sessions; HJR7 would retain the 60/30 structure but remove the germaneness requirement during the short session. McQueen said either measure would let legislators ‘control our own agenda’ rather than ceding agenda-setting to the governor’s message.

Supporters, including Common Cause and a retired state attorney, argued the current system—third-shortest in the nation—limits sustained legislative work and that removing germaneness would allow year-to-year attention to policies. Critics, including a former Oregon legislator and representatives from faith groups and members of the committee, said shortening sessions risks killing bills that advance late in longer sessions and would increase costs and logistical burdens on citizen legislators who must find housing and manage employment during different-length sessions.

Members debated practical effects: whether removing germaneness would double workload, how per-diem or housing rules might be adjusted, and whether complementary statutory changes (limits on bill introductions or per-diem adjustments) would be necessary. McQueen and several members said internal House rules and separate statutory fixes can address operational concerns. After discussion the committee voted to recommend 'do pass' for both HJR6 and HJR7; the chair announced HJR7 passed the committee 7–2.

Both resolutions advance to the House floor for further consideration; committee members asked that operational details (per‑diem, filing deadlines, and housing for legislators) be considered separately.