As you’ve heard, SB 2,which grants minority status protection based on sexual orientation and gender identity is now awaiting Governor Ted Kulongoski’s signature.
 
Here’s a brief timeline of Senate Bill 2, and the some of the action that the Oregon Family Council has taken:
 
March 5 – SB 2 introduced in the Senate at the request of the Governor’s Task Force on Equality.
 
March 12 – Over 120 Oregonians sign up to testify in opposition to SB 2 at its first public hearing.  Despite many requests to amend the bill to protect religious organizations, the Senate Judiciary committee sends the bill to the Senate floor.  One Senator questions need to ever exempt religious organizations from any regulations.
 
March 21 – Despite thousands of calls and emails from citizens, Senate passes bill 21-7.  Those opposing the bill express concerns about the weak religious exemption.
 
April 5 – Nearly 500 pastors and religious leaders from across the state gather in Salem to meet their State Representatives and Senators and ask that SB 2 be amended to protect the right of religious organizations to hire those who share their values.  Attendees are from 57 different House districts, and represent many church denominations and organizations including private schools, rescue missions, mission agencies, and youth outdoors programs.. 
 
April 9 – Public hearing on SB 2 in the House Rules committee. Over 700 Oregonians attend a rally at the capitol opposing SB 2.  Capitol hearing rooms are packed in what some legislators called the “largest turnout for any bill in recent memory.”
 
April 10 – House Rules committee amends bill with what some have termed an “ironclad” religious exemption.  Churches and religious organizations are free to hire clergy, religious instructors and support staff that share their values, and may continue to take employment action based on a bona fide religious belief about sexual orientation.
 
April 17 – House of Representatives passes SB 2 35-25.  Those in opposition express many concerns, including that cross-dressers will be able to use the locker room of their choice based on the bill’s inclusion of “gender identity,” and that schools will eventually be forced to alter their curriculum so that all sexual preferences are addressed in sex-ed classes.  Representatives acknowledge the thousands of calls, letters and emails they received opposing the bill.
 
April 19 – Senate concurs in House amendments to SB 2.