Relating to the Oregon Public Defense Commission; and declaring an emergency.

Changed the operative date for amendments to ORS 151.213 from July 1, 2027 to January 1, 2026, making new rules take effect sooner.

Modified commission member removal rules to require 'just cause' for removals, with an additional provision that if three or more members are removed in a 12-month period, 'inefficiency, neglect of duty or malfeasance in office' must be shown.

Added a new provision requiring the Governor to show 'just cause' for removing commission members, with stricter standards if multiple members are removed in a short period.

Changed the requirement for retired judges on the commission from being 'retired' to having 'previously served as a judge' and not currently engaged in judicial functions.

Changes operative dates for various amendments to ORS 151.213, 151.216, and 151.219, with some provisions becoming effective July 1, 2027 and others July 1, 2033.

Removes the Governor's ability to remove commission members and the executive director for cause, limiting removal to specific grounds like inefficiency or neglect of duty starting July 1, 2027.

Extends the commission's authority to contract with entities that subcontract for public defense services until July 1, 2033.

Eliminates the commission's authority to advocate for or against legislation.

Requires the commission to submit an agency request budget to the Oregon Department of Administrative Services after commission member approval.

Modifies compensation and caseload policy requirements for the commission.

Declares an emergency effective on passage to allow immediate implementation of changes.