PORTLAND, OREGON — Oregon Governor Tina Kotek signed several significant bills on Thursday aimed at bolstering protections related to immigration status across the state.
A comprehensive package of eight bills passed in recent legislative sessions focuses on limiting law enforcement cooperation with federal authorities, increasing transparency, and safeguarding access to education, healthcare, and legal services.
In attendance at the signing were notable figures including Portland Police Deputy Chief Brian Hughes, Ira Cuello Martinez from the Oregon Farm Workers Union (PCUN), and various state legislators who contributed to the legislative effort.
During an intense session leading up to the 2026 legislative term, both the Oregon House and Senate engaged in extensive debates over multiple immigration-related bills. One of the pivotal pieces of legislation, HB-4138, mandates that all law enforcement personnel on duty in Oregon, including federal and out-of-state officers, must be easily identifiable. This has raised inquiries about the feasibility of restricting federal employees from using masks while performing their duties.
Following the bill signing, Governor Kotek addressed reporters, discussing the implementation of the new laws and how various agencies and school districts will be required to adapt to these changes. She emphasized the importance of local governance, stating that states should have the authority to manage their own affairs and protect their communities.
In her remarks, Kotek acknowledged the relentless efforts of advocates, organizers, and legislators, urging them to continue their work as their persistence had led to these accomplishments. She also made it clear that Oregon would not be intimidated by outside pressures to compromise its values regarding immigration.
The following bills form part of the legislative package that Kotek has signed: House Bill 4079, which requires educational institutions to develop policies addressing federal immigration inquiries; House Bill 4111, which protects individuals’ immigration status from being used as evidence in civil cases and shields workers from retaliation for renewing work permits; House Bill 4114, which creates a civil cause of action against unauthorized entry onto certain premises; and House Bill 4138, which ensures transparency in law enforcement operations. Additional bills include Senate Bill 1538, which mandates equitable access to public education for all students; Senate Bill 1570, requiring hospitals to establish policies on responding to law enforcement; Senate Bill 1587, barring public agencies from sharing personal information with data brokers for immigration enforcement; and Senate Bill 1594, directing the Office of Immigration and Refugee Advancement to develop statewide policies related to immigration status.
This signing event marks the second time in recent days that Governor Kotek has enacted new legislation, having previously signed a bill aimed at supporting local farmers by streamlining rules for hosting business-related events and opening small retail outlets.
This is an evolving story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
