Relating to preference given to servicemembers in public employment.

SB 808 gives hiring and promotion preferences in Oregon public jobs to state National Guard members, veterans, and disabled veterans. It adds 5 percentage points to a veteran's application score (10 for disabled veterans) during competitive hiring for civil service positions, without overriding the need for minimum qualifications. Public employers must consider these preferences when ranking candidates but are not required to hire a veteran over a more qualified non-veteran. The law, effective January 1, 2026, applies to all Oregon public employers and ensures written explanations if a veteran is not hired despite the preference.