SENATE BILL REPORT

SJR 8201

BYSenators Talmadge, Moore, Gaspard, Bender, Wojahn, Fleming, Kreidler and Garrett

Providing for special one-day sessions of the senate to confirm gubernatorial appointments.

Senate Committee on Governmental Operations

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 3, 1987; February 4, 1987

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Joint Resolution No. 8201 be substituted therefor, and the substitute resolution do pass.

      Signed by Senators Halsan, Chairman; Garrett, Vice Chairman; DeJarnatt, McCaslin, Pullen, Talmadge.

Senate Staff:Barbara Howard (786-7410); Eugene Green (786-7405)

                  February 5, 1987

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS, FEBRUARY 4, 1987

BACKGROUND:

Confirmation of gubernatorial appointments by the Senate can only take place during a regular or special session of the Legislature.  Oregon has made special provision in its constitution and general laws for special confirmation sessions during interims between legislative sessions.  In some other states, where the Legislature is in session nearly year-round, or where there are several adjournments to a time certain (such as Michigan), procedures are available to expedite the confirmation process.

SUMMARY:

Article II, Sec. 12 of the State Constitution is amended to provide for a third type of legislative session -- special one-day sessions of the Senate for the sole purpose of considering gubernatorial appointments subject to confirmation.  Subject to implementing law, such sessions may be convened by resolution of the Senate, but may not be held more than once a month.

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Effective Date:Subject to ratification by the voters at the general election in November, 1987.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED SUBSTITUTE:

Special sessions of the Senate to consider gubernatorial appointments may be convened by the President of the Senate, pursuant to rules adopted by the body.  Such sessions may not exceed one calendar day per month.

Executive action on gubernatorial appointments is made part of official business for standing and select committees of the Senate.

Senate Committee - Testified: Sid Snyder, Secretary of the Senate