Summary of June 2025’s Labor Law Cases in Portland, OR
Welcome to our monthly Oregon labor law roundup, brought to you by HKM Employment Attorneys’ Oregon team. This update highlights major legislative, judicial, and administrative developments from June 2025—essential insights for employees, HR professionals, and compliance leaders navigating Oregon labor law. June 2025 brought impactful developments—from expanded strike protections to rulemaking for delivery drivers and annual wage updates. Employers in Oregon should review strike policies, update wage compliance systems, and participate in administrative rule discussions. If you have questions or need help navigating these changes, contact HKM Employment Attorneys at hkm.com.
Oregon Governor Signs Bill Extending Unemployment Benefits to Striking Workers — Legislation
Date: June 24, 2025
Summary:
Governor Tina Kotek signed a landmark bill enabling both public- and private-sector striking workers in Oregon to receive unemployment benefits after two weeks on strike, with a maximum benefit period of 10 weeks. It marks Oregon as the first state to extend such benefits to public employees on strike. Notably, school districts will recover benefits paid from future wages to manage budget impacts.
Implications:
Workers now have a financial safety net during strikes, potentially empowering labor actions. Employers—especially public entities—must adjust budgets and payroll processes. HR and legal teams should update strike preparedness protocols and communications accordingly.
Federal Judge Declares Oregon’s Measure 119 Requirement Unconstitutional — Court Ruling
Date: May 20, 2025 (Coverage published in June)
Summary:
U.S. District Judge Michael Simon ruled Oregon’s Measure 119—mandating labor peace agreements for cannabis licenses—as unconstitutional. He found it infringes on free speech rights and is preempted by federal labor law under the NLRA. Following the decision, the Oregon Liquor Control Commission ceased enforcement of the requirement .
Implications:
Cannabis businesses are no longer required to enter labor peace agreements, alleviating licensing burdens. This decision underscores limitations on state-imposed labor conditions in federally regulated industries. Employers and attorneys should monitor potential appeals and adjust compliance strategies.
Senate Bill 916 Introduced—Strike Benefit Expansion Proposal — Legislation (Pending)
Date: June 2025 (Introduced)
Summary:
SB 916, proposed in June, would expand unemployment benefits to striking workers for up to 26 weeks—extending beyond the enacted 10-week cap. This proposal emerges shortly after the June bill signing.
Implications:
If enacted, the bill could significantly shift financial dynamics of labor strikes, favoring union strategy and placing additional fiscal burdens on employers and state funds. HR teams should track its status and prepare for possible policy adjustments.
Bureau of Labor & Industries (BOLI) Opens Rulemaking—Delivery Drivers on Public Works — Administrative Rulemaking
Date: June 2025
Summary:
Oregon BOLI published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in June concerning Division 25, focusing on delivery drivers working on public works projects. The rules may address wage compliance and delivery standards.
Implications:
Public works contractors and subcontractors should review draft rules and consider commenting. Companies employing delivery drivers in public projects need to monitor compliance obligations and prepare for upcoming rule implementations.
Minimum Wage Increase Effective July 1, 2025 — Legislation (Annual Adjustment)
Date: July 1, 2025 (implementation)
Summary:
Oregon’s minimum wage rates for the 2025–2026 year were announced in June. From July 1:
- $16.30/hr in Portland metro
- $15.05/hr statewide standard
- $14.05/hr in non-urban areas
Implications:
Employers must update payroll systems and communicate changes. Sliding scales based on location add complexity; ensure accurate wage assignment and poster compliance by July 1.
Conclusion: Looking back on Portland, OR Labor Law Updates in June 2025
With Oregon courts continuing to strengthen employee rights concerning wrongful termination, unpaid wages, discrimination, FMLA/ADA leave, hostile work environments, and restrictive covenants, it’s essential to have counsel steeped in state and federal law. At HKM Employment Attorneys in Portland, our team—including Samuel Jackson, Krista Le Roux, Jason Rittereiser, and Jennifer Vitello—has recovered over $250 million for workers, handling everything from contract review and severance counseling to ethics investigations, wage‑and‑hour claims, and wrongful termination litigation. Recognized by Super Lawyers and dedicated to no‑fee‑unless‑we‑win representation, our Portland office brings compassionate guidance and fearless advocacy. If recent case rulings resonate with your situation, reach out to our Portland team to explore how we can help protect your workplace rights.
