Social justice advocates in Multnomah County sought to establish Universal Preschool in Multnomah County by initiative. Counsel assisted in writing the initiative. After it was filed, business groups filed two lawsuits, one raising constitutional concerns, and the other challenging the ballot title. Advocates joined with Multnomah County Counsel to defeat those claims. The court certified […]
Month: October 2020
Secretary of State Could Not Reject Clean Energy Initiatives on “Single Subject” Grounds
Clean energy advocates filed two initiatives, IP’s 48 and 49 (2020), to promote and establish clean energy infrastructure and standards. The Secretary of State rejected both initiatives, claiming that because the proposals called for fair labor standards for clean energy-related construction projects, it impermissibly encompassed “two subjects.” Advocates filed a lawsuit in Marion County challenging […]
A Finding that a Teacher has Engaged in “Sexual Conduct” as Defined by Statute Requires that the Employer Prove Actual Inappropriate Conduct
A new and inexperienced teacher struggled with classroom management in a middle school in Portland that had seen significant staff and administration turnover and dysfunction. A few students claimed that teacher made them feel uncomfortable in class. Teacher, who acknowledged challenges with classroom management, resigned after being non-renewed. Over seven months later, District notified teacher […]
Off-Duty Conduct Relating to Teacher’s Substance Abuse Problem Was Not “Immoral” or Grounds for Termination
Well-liked and effective middle school social studies teacher was terminated after her arrest for a DUI and possession of drugs was published in local newspaper. Teacher successfully completed treatment program and was not convicted of any crime. The District sought to terminate her based on “immorality” and “conviction of a crime.” The FDAB unanimously ruled […]