The Chief Clerk of the House is the administrative officer elected for a two-year term by the membership of the House of Representatives to be responsible for ensuring that the chamber's business and proceedings run smoothly. They also have the duty of providing the proper setting for consideration and enactment of Oregon laws, maintaining the Rules of the House of Representatives, and advising presiding officers and other members on the proper interpretation of chamber rules and protocols.
The Office of the Chief Clerk plays an indispensable role in the administrative and procedural aspects of the Oregon House of Representatives. As a non-partisan entity, the Chief Clerk's office ensures that the lawmaking process in the Oregon House runs smoothly, efficiently, and transparently. The work of the Chief Clerk’s Office is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the legislative process and fostering trust among the public, legislators, and all Capitol staff. Our office assists all 60 state representatives and their partisan staff with their legislative needs, from providing procedural advice to offering administrative support. We also work closely with the non-partisan policy research staff to ensure the proper rules are followed throughout a measure’s journey from introduction to the Governor and eventually to the Secretary of State. Our office is responsible for maintaining a meticulous record of all House proceedings, including bills, resolutions, and other legislative documents. This ensures that a reliable historical record is available for reference, research, and legal purposes.