LOC News
Senate Republicans Walk Out
With the 2019 legislative session in its final stages, Senate Republicans walked out this week in protest over HB 2020, the “Cap and Trade” bill. As a result, several priority bills for the LOC are in limbo, along with several agency budgets since they have not passed both chambers. As an insurance measure, Senate Republicans did support a continuing resolution allowing state agencies to receive funding at current levels until September 15. Senate and House rules require a quorum before voting on an issue, so there must be 20 Senators present and 40 House members present to conduct business. This requires at least two Republicans in the Senate and four in the House.
Earlier this session, Senate Republicans walked out in protest over HB 3427 (Commercial Activities Tax). They returned six days later after reaching an agreement with Senate Democrats not to advance legislation related to vaccinations (HB 3063) and gun control (SB 978).
Despite this walkout, the LOC’s advocacy team is recommending that cities continue to contact their legislators about priority issues. Several LOC priority bills need to move and cities cannot let up their contact with the Legislature.
Contact: Jim McCauley, Legislative Director – jmccauley@orcities.org
Last Updated 6-21-19