Jackson County Democrats

Merkley: Senate Bill Promotes Equality for Federal Employees

May 21, 2009

Oregon’s Senator Jeff Merkley today co-sponsored legislation that entitles all federal employees, no matter their sexual orientation, to the same employment and health care benefits as married couples. 

SB 739 will require home sellers to test for additional chemicals

  House bill would ban free samples of non-cigarette tobacco products. HB 2358 now moves to the Senate.  Contact your Senator to pass this bill!!

On April 28^th, House Democrats voted to pass House Bill 2358, which would prohibit the distribution of free samples of non-cigarette tobacco products throughout the state. The bill was sponsored by Representative Carolyn Tomei (D-Milwaukie) and Representative Mike Schaufler (D-Happy Valley).

Smokeless tobacco that is flavored and presented in colorful packaging is often marketed to young women. In rural Oregon, smokeless tobacco is heavily marketed to young men. Because these marketing techniques are not regulated, it is easy Oregon kids to obtain them.

In 2005, major tobacco companies spent more than $13 billion to promote tobacco products; many marketing efforts directly reach children. Currently the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that at least 26% of high school students use some form of non-cigarette tobacco.

The bill passed on a 49-11 vote, with all 36 Democrats voting in favor. HB 2358 now moves to the Senate.

An initial group of about 20 met on February 13 to organize a chapter of the Democratic Party of Oregon GLBT Caucus. The group approved bylaws and elected officers:

Chair - Leslie Stone  e-mail to  lesliestone@ashlandhome.net

Vice-Chair - Lisa Everly