Oregon 2025 Regular Session

Oregon House Bill HB2669

Introduced
1/13/25  
Refer
1/17/25  
Refer
3/6/25  

Caption

Relating to part-time faculty at community colleges; declaring an emergency.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly impact the employment dynamics within community colleges. It aims to standardize compensation for part-time faculty, which is expected to improve job satisfaction and attract more qualified educators to part-time positions. However, the financial implications for community colleges regarding budget allocations could pose challenges, particularly for those reliant on tuition and state funding. The mandate will likely require institutions to adjust their budgeting processes or seek additional funds to comply with the new wage structure.

Summary

House Bill 2669 mandates that community colleges in Oregon pay part-time faculty the same hourly rate as their equally experienced full-time counterparts for all hours worked, including preparation and grading. This bill seeks to address wage disparities between part-time and full-time faculty, enhancing the economic status of part-time educators in the community college system. Additionally, the bill appropriates necessary funds to the Higher Education Coordinating Commission to support this salary equity requirement.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2669 appears to be largely supportive among educators and advocates for fair compensation in higher education. Many stakeholders view the bill as a positive step towards recognizing the contributions of part-time faculty, who often undertake significant teaching responsibilities without equivalent remuneration. Critics, however, might express concerns regarding the potential financial burden on community colleges, especially smaller institutions with limited budgets.

Contention

Notable points of contention emerge from the bill's financial implications and the potential strain it may place on community college resources. Some lawmakers may argue that while the intention of equity is commendable, the requirement could lead to cuts in other areas or increased tuition rates for students. Additionally, there may be debates regarding the overall effectiveness of the bill in achieving true equity in education versus simply redistributing existing funds. The urgency of the bill, marked by the declaration of an emergency, suggests that discussions on its economic feasibility have been minimal thus far.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OR SB416

Relating to part-time faculty at post-secondary institutions of education; declaring an emergency.

OR HB3315

Relating to nursing programs at community colleges; declaring an emergency.

OR HB2611

Relating to health care benefits for part-time faculty members at post-secondary institutions of education; and declaring an emergency.

OR HB2740

Relating to part-time faculty.

OR HB3411

Relating to emergency communications; declaring an emergency.

OR SB1552

Relating to education; declaring an emergency.

OR HB3564

Relating to higher education; and declaring an emergency.

OR HB2464

Relating to community mental health programs; declaring an emergency.

OR SB286

Relating to school starting times; declaring an emergency.

OR SB621

Relating to community mental health programs; declaring an emergency.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.