Chair Prozanski, Vice-Chair Thatcher, and Members of the Committee, My name is Kathy Lara, Policy Analyst for the Oregon Center
Worker Power
The power of organized labor has brought us weekends, sick leave, and the minimum wage. However, worker power has decreased during decades of attacks by corporate interests and neglect by the federal government. Increasing the strength of workers is vital to making the economy work for everyone.
Worker Power
The power of organized labor has brought us weekends, sick leave, and the minimum wage. However, worker power has decreased during decades of attacks by corporate interests and neglect by the federal government. Increasing the strength of workers is vital to making the economy work for everyone.
Latest Articles
Co-Chairs Woods and Gomberg, and Members of the Committee, My name is Kathy Lara, Policy Analyst for the Oregon Center
Despite the prevalence of wage theft, the state agency tasked with protecting workers has fewer resources to combat the problem
Chair Grayber, Vice-Chairs Elmer and Muñoz, and Members of the Committee, My name is Daniel Hauser, Deputy Director for the
Chair Taylor, Vice-Chair Bonham, and Members of the Committee, My name is Kathy Lara, Policy Analyst for the Oregon Center
There is growing interest in the power of Workforce Standards Boards to improve pay and working conditions in industries with
Many older workers run up against age discrimination in the workplace. The Oregon legislature needs to remedy the problem, says
Labor Commissioner Christina Stephenson explains the surge in claims and staffing shortage confronting the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries.
Get the basics on workforce standards boards, an effective strategy for states to improve wages and working conditions.
Latest Podcasts

How big corporations hide their profits — and how to stop it
Listen to prior episodes of the show Follow Policy for the People on your favorite podcast app Transcript
October 9, 2025

Behind the Wheel: Drivers Union OR’s Fight for Better Pay & Rights
Rideshare drivers have had enough. Confronting low pay and tough working conditions, , drivers for Uber and Lyft are organizing
September 11, 2025

Progress undone? Federal bill threatens Oregon’s health care gains
Much of the progress Oregon has made in expanding health care access is at risk as a result of the
August 14, 2025
The 2025 Oregon legislature can advance economic security by passing these bills