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Oregon House adopts 2026 short-session rules after sharp debate over fundraising restriction
Summary
The Oregon House adopted rules for the 2026 short session after lawmakers debated whether a longstanding rule restricting receipt of campaign contributions during session violates the U.S. and Oregon constitutions; the rules passed after proponents said enforcement and penalties are limited and the committee will continue the conversation.
The Oregon House of Representatives on Feb. 2 adopted its rules for the 2026 short session after a prolonged debate over a rule that restricts members from receiving campaign contributions while the legislature is in session.
Representative David Gomberg, chair of the Special Committee on Rules, moved adoption and said most changes were minor adjustments to reflect the Capitol's reopening, including clarifying which nearby restrooms fall within the chamber's boundaries. He urged members to approve the rules and continue discussion where disagreement remained: "I would ask for a yes vote on the rules that we are adopting today," he said.
The debate centered on a restriction that bars receipt of campaign contributions during session. Several members cited a recent Legislative Council opinion finding that restriction unconstitutional. Representative Mannix said he would vote no because the rule "violates the United States Constitution and violates the Oregon Constitution" and that the restriction prevents "the voters [from] present[ing] their opinions by making contributions to candidates for public office whenever they choose to do so." Representative Yoker, invoking free-speech concerns, argued the provision "risks chilling speech, discouraging participation" and said he "cannot support these rules" while it remains in place.
Other lawmakers defended the rules as a tool to preserve decorum and help the chamber complete business during the five-week short session. Representative Chotzin said the rules will "help us get back on track" and avoid distractions; Representative Evans said he would vote for the rules but planned to bring forward proposed changes for future consideration.
Gomberg acknowledged the committee did not reach consensus on the fundraising restriction but said there is not presently a mechanism in the rules to impose "huge penalties" if the section were violated and that the issue warrants further review. After the clerk opened the voting system, the report by the Special Committee on Rules "having received the required majority is declared adopted." The motion to adopt the committee's report carried.
What happens next: lawmakers said they expect further discussion in the rules committee and possible proposal of specific amendments in coming days. The adopted rules will govern debate, decorum and procedures for the 35-day short session.
Quote highlights: "This body is voting to restrain not only my right, but the right of every member to collect voluntary donations from the constituents who wish to support our campaigns," Representative Yoker said during debate.
"I would ask for a yes vote on the rules that we are adopting today," Representative Gomberg said in closing remarks.
Actions and votes: The Special Committee on Rules moved adoption of its report (mover: Representative David Gomberg). The clerk declared the report adopted after receiving the required majority; no formal roll-call tally for the rules motion was recorded in the transcript excerpts provided.
