Oregon lawmakers kick off 35-day legislative session

By SARA CLINE
Associated Press/Report for America

SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Oregon lawmakers have returned to the state Capitol for the start of the 35-day legislative session. While Democrats have proposed an ambitious and progressive agenda, the question remains whether Republicans will again use tactics to slow or halt the short session in order to block bills they oppose. However, both political parties say they are cautiously optimistic of a constructive working relationship as new leaders take center stage in the Capitol. The short session began Tuesday with the House electing Democratic Rep. Dan Rayfield as speaker. Meanwhile, dozens of protesters rallied against mask mandates and other pandemic restrictions outside the Statehouse.