This last Spring, the Oregon Legislature approved Anti-Discrimination and Domestic Partnership laws for GLBT folks.  Compromises were made in both laws to allay the concerns of religious groups.  Yet, far-right religious groups have pledged to bring a measure to Oregon's 2008 ballot calling for the repeal of both new laws. 

The new laws are set to go into effect on January 1, 2008. But, if the opposition gathers the small number of signatures necessary to send them to ballot, the implementation will be delayed until after the November 2008 election.

The main group behind the passage of the two bills is Basic Rights Oregon, which sent this message to all supporters today:read more >>

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Transit agency: Teen lesbians shouldn't have been tossed off bus for kissing

After 34 years of working for basic fairness for all Oregonians and their families, Oregon has taken a historic step forward by passing two basic fairness laws--one banning discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, and one creating Domestic Partnerships.

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This is from Basic Rights Oregon:

We last reported that the Constitution Party of Oregon had filed referendums on both laws. They have since withdrawn their effort in order to join a larger coalition comprised of a far-right group, "Restore America", and former Senator Marilyn Shannon, who chaired the Oregon Republican Party in the mid-1990s.

The group has indicated they may use paid signature gatherers to collect signatures. These paid signature gathers must carry a copy of the summary of the bills along with the petition and make them available for review to a person who signs the petition. In addition, we anticipate they will also gather signatures through churches and via direct mail.
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Stories and photos from The Oregonian, May 3, 2007

by Bill Graves

Gay and lesbian couples in Oregon won the state benefits of marriage Wednesday in the second of two legislative victories that mark the biggest advance for gay rights in state history.