Oregon Public Broadcasting

Oregon lawmakers have given final approval to a controversial bill that could affect workplace communication.

After a lengthy, heated discussion, the Oregon House narrowly passed a measure Friday that allows employees to skip meetings relating to political and religious matters.

Republicans insisted the bill infringes on employers’ free speech. But Democrats like Representative Michael Dembrow countered that isn’t the case.

Michael Dembrow: “This bill does nothing to limit what employers can or cannot say to their workers.  It simply frees the workers from being compelled to listen.”

The bill was backed by unions who have long complained that employees are forced to sit through staff meetings designed to discourage union organizing.  

The measure passed the Senate earlier and is on its way to the Governor’s desk.

Online:

Oregon Senate Bill 519-A