OR HB2548

Appropriates $666,791 to the Higher Education Coordinating Commission for Portland State University's Center for Public Service to conduct a study on farmworker labor standards, working conditions, wages, benefits, health and safety risks, and workplace protections in Oregon.

Requires the Legislative Policy and Research Director to conduct a separate study assessing agricultural industry data from January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2025, including employer counts, seasonal vs. permanent worker statistics, wage data, and temporary visa program usage.

Mandates engagement with farmworkers through in-person interviews and focus groups, plus a confidential survey of farmers regarding workplace benefits provided such as health care stipends, housing, transportation, and retirement benefits.

Establishes three reporting deadlines to legislative committees: initial findings by May 1, 2026; progress update by September 1, 2026; and final report by December 1, 2026, with the Legislative Policy and Research Director's report due September 15, 2026.

Declares an emergency for immediate effect upon passage and repeals the study provisions on January 2, 2027.