Oregon Department of Justice

The meeting was convened but did not proceed with official business due to a lack of a quorum. The participants discussed the legal implications of conducting deliberations without a quorum, the status of draft rules concerning failure to intervene and failure to report, and ongoing confusion regarding the definition of excessive force. Future scheduling and the necessity of achieving a quorum for upcoming meetings, specifically to address the annual report, were also noted.

The task force meeting focused on the development of a final report, including the establishment of a timeline for review, feedback, and revisions. A significant portion of the meeting featured a presentation by the CEO of Now Matters Now, who discussed dialectical behavior therapy coping skills and the role of lived experience in suicide prevention and healthcare interventions. The presentation highlighted the importance of evidence-based tools, peer-led support groups, and providing accessible resources to those experiencing emotional crises.

This document outlines potential projects and initiatives for the LESC, serving as a strategic planning guide. Key focus areas include updating existing guidelines and developing new procedures, proposing new rules for various types of misconduct (e.g., non-disciplinary corrective action, misuse of confidential information, untruthfulness, biased policing, sexual harassment), and recommending legislative changes, such as a new sexual assault definition and adjustments to Commission composition. The plan also addresses challenges in ensuring compliance, promoting consistent disciplinary standards, and improving rule implementation tracking and reporting processes, all with the aim of maintaining community trust and fostering a fair and accountable disciplinary process for law enforcement officers.

The Commission discussed proposed rule language regarding the misuse of confidential information and voted to adopt a version including a range of disciplinary sanctions. The members also reviewed draft language for new rules concerning the duty to intervene and the duty to report, determining that further research into legislative history and alignment with existing DPSST standards is required. The Executive Director provided an update on public hearings and future agenda planning, including priorities for an annual report and upcoming surveys.

The committee discussed updates from the Special Projects Subcommittee and the status of a letter submitted to the legislature regarding open government impact statements. Members engaged in a process of adopting a bi-annual report, incorporating modifications such as including total exemption reviews, legislative advocacy efforts, and historical context on legislation. Additionally, the committee deliberated on potential legislative changes regarding public records exemptions for decedent and survivor information, interpreter services, and whistleblower protections, ultimately deciding to invite representatives from relevant boards for further discussion in future meetings.