OR · Civil Rights & Disputes

Civil Rights & Disputes in Oregon

By CanISueForThis Editorial Team Reviewed by Editorial Team Updated March 21, 2026

Key Oregon Law

Oregon Unlawful Discrimination in Employment — ORS Chapter 659A

Oregon's anti-discrimination statutes (ORS Chapter 659A) prohibit employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, age (18+), disability, injured worker status, and military service.

View official statute

Procedural Details in Oregon

Oregon's Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) investigates civil rights complaints. Complaints must be filed within 300 days of the discriminatory act. Oregon has an unusually low age threshold — workers 18 and older are protected against age discrimination (not just 40+ as under federal law). Oregon explicitly covers sexual orientation and gender identity. Oregon has one of the strongest anti-SLAPP statutes in the country (ORS 31.150 et seq.) — it protects any oral or written statement in connection with a public issue or issue of public interest. A special motion to strike must be filed within 60 days; successful defendants receive mandatory attorney's fees. The defamation statute of limitations in Oregon is one year under ORS 12.120(2). Oregon courts may allow negligent infliction of emotional distress claims without physical impact if the threat of harm was serious.

Oregon Agencies & Resources

Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI)

State agency investigating civil rights complaints in employment, housing, and public accommodations.

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EEOC Seattle Field Office (Oregon)

Federal agency handling employment discrimination charges for Oregon workers.

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Oregon State Bar — Lawyer Referral

Referral service for civil rights attorneys in Oregon.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is unique about Oregon's age discrimination protection?

Oregon protects workers from age discrimination starting at age 18, not 40 as under federal law. This means younger workers in Oregon have state-law protection against age discrimination that their counterparts in most other states lack.

How long do I have to file a civil rights complaint in Oregon?

Complaints must be filed with Oregon's BOLI within 300 days of the discriminatory act. Oregon has a worksharing agreement with the EEOC.

How does Oregon's anti-SLAPP statute work?

Oregon's anti-SLAPP statute (ORS 31.150) protects statements on public issues or issues of public interest. Defendants may file a special motion to strike within 60 days of being served. If successful, the defendant receives mandatory attorney's fees. Discovery is stayed during the motion.

What is the defamation statute of limitations in Oregon?

Defamation claims in Oregon must be filed within one year under ORS 12.120(2).

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By CanISueForThis Editorial Team Reviewed by Editorial Team Updated March 21, 2026