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As the 2023 Legislative Session Begins Today in Oregon, Common-Sense Gun Safety Legislation Should Take Center Stage

January 17, 2023

Today, lawmakers return to the state capitol for the first day of the state legislative session in Oregon. Oregon is a clear example of how strong laws work to save lives. In this legislative session, the legislature can build on that progress and continue to make Oregon a national leader in the fight against gun violence. 

Oregon has taken essential steps to strengthen their gun laws and save lives in recent years. By enacting secure firearm storage laws, an extreme risk law, and background checks on all gun sales, the state has promoted responsible gun ownership and kept guns out of the hands of those wishing to harm themselves or others. 

Yet, there is still work to be done to end gun violence in Oregon. As we wait for the implementation of Measure 114, lawmakers must prioritize common-sense gun safety legislation like, renewing funding for community violence intervention programs, and tackling the flood of ghost guns — all to build on the progress of the past and fight to eradicate gun violence at its core. 

Alongside Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, a gun safety champion, the legislature will have the opportunity to prioritize gun violence prevention measures and listen to Oregonians who have made their voices heard — they want more common-sense measures to keep guns out of the wrong hands, including banning high-capacity magazines. Oregon proves that common-sense gun safety policies work and has a unique opportunity to build on a decade of progress and become the national leader in the fight against gun violence. 

Everytown just released our updated Gun Law Rankings for 2023, which ranks each state by the strength of their gun laws. This year, Oregon moved up to ninth after ballot Measure 114 passed, which included requiring a permit to purchase a firearm, prohibiting high-capacity magazines, and closing the Charleston Loophole. More information on gun violence in Oregon is available here

More information on Gun Violence in Oregon:

  • In an average year, 544 people die by guns in Oregon. More at EveryStat.
  • The rate of gun deaths has increased 24 percent from 2011 to 2020 in Oregon, compared to a 33-percent increase nationwide. 
  • Gun violence costs Oregon $8.1 billion each year, of which $89.1 million is paid by taxpayers.
  • In Oregon, 81 percent of gun deaths are suicides and 15 percent are homicides. This is compared to 59 percent and 38 percent nationwide, respectively.

If you have questions, or to request an interview with a volunteer from Oregon Moms Demand Action about advocacy and gun violence prevention in the state, please reach out to [email protected]

If you're a member of the media, please send inquiries to [email protected]