League of Women Voters of Oregon Urges Guardrails on National Guard Deployments
- Sarah Andrews
- Jun 19
- 1 min read
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 19, 2025
League of Women Voters of Oregon Urges Guardrails on National Guard Deployments
Salem, OR — The League of Women Voters of Oregon has called on the Governor’s office and Attorney General to support improvement to Oregon National Guard procedures.
The League has urged lawmakers to examine and support HB 3954, now amended, outlining when the Oregon National Guard can be activated by the Adjutant General.
“In light of recent military deployments to U.S. cities, including the use of National Guard troops during peaceful protests, Oregon must act to ensure civilian safety and democratic oversight,” League president Lisa Bentson stated.
The League supports policing and military practices that promote public trust, eliminate systemic bias, and ensure community safety.
We have urged lawmakers to look at legislation in other states requiring state-level approval for external Guard deployments. “We need a protective guard rail,” the League emphasized. “This moment appears to be laying the groundwork for more expansive use of the military to suppress dissent—completely unprecedented under any legal authority.”
With growing concerns about federal overreach and potential misuse of the Insurrection Act, Oregon must establish clear guardrails. The League affirmed that “a functioning democracy must allow people to hold their government accountable without fear of violence.”
Media Contact:
Barbara Klein, Communications Chair
League of Women Voters of Oregon
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