In 1843, according to historians, settlers in the Willamette Valley adopted a set of laws based on those of Iowa. Oregon became a territory in 1848 and Salem became the capital in 1854. Oregon joined the Union as the 33rd state on February 14, 1859.
The Supreme Court is the highest court in Oregon with seven justices elected to six-year terms. Oregon also has a court of appeals and district, county, justice and municipal courts. The head of the government is the Governor, elected for a four-year term.
Oregon is governed by a House of 60 Representatives elected for two years and a Senate of 30 serving four years. These bodies convene in January of each odd-year. Legislative activities continue in the interim period through special committees.
The cities of Oregon choose their own form of government. Called "home rule," most cities have a council form of government with a manager or mayor in charge. Portland, the largest city (2001 population of 536,240), has a mayor and four city commissioners. Counties in Oregon have the privilege of home rule as well; however, only seven of the 36 counties have taken advantage of the opportunity.
Citizen Involvement
Governor Kulongoski reading Dr. Seuss to schoolchildren.
Oregon has a long history of progressive legislation and citizen involvement in government. It was the first state in the Union to require statewide voter registration, enact initiative and referendum laws, provide for recall of public officials, elect U.S. Senators by vote of the people, distribute free statewide voter pamphlets, recognize Labor Day, adopt a Workmans' Compensation Plan, enact the eight-hour working day for women, place all Oregon ocean beaches in public hands, place restrictions on non-returnable bottles and aerosol sprays and provide state funds for bicycle paths.
Oregonians are known for their environmental concerns; notable legislation has been enacted to protect the land and ocean.
In 1843, according to historians, settlers in the Willamette Valley adopted a set of laws based on those of Iowa. Oregon became a territory in 1848 and Salem became the capital in 1854. Oregon joined the Union as the 33rd state on February 14, 1859.