Labor and Workforce Development Interim

Expands the goals and purposes of the Prosperity 10,000 Program. Requires the Higher Education Coordinating Commission to award grants to local workforce development boards to administer the program. Requires local workforce development boards to consider certain factors when distributing funds to certain entities.

HB 4109 repeals a provision (ORS 657.203) that allowed unemployment insurance benefits for workers unemployed due to a strike. This bill removes the exception that previously permitted benefits during strike-related unemployment, meaning workers involved in active strikes will no longer qualify for benefits during the strike period. The change directly affects employees whose job loss results from a labor dispute (strike) at their workplace. The bill does not alter other unemployment eligibility rules but specifically eliminates the strike-related benefit provision established by prior legislation.

HB 4011 requires Oregon school districts to negotiate class size and caseload limits as mandatory topics during collective bargaining with employee representatives. This applies specifically to schools receiving Title I federal funding under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. The bill expands existing bargaining requirements by adding these two specific issues to the list of subjects school districts must discuss with unions. It does not change other topics excluded from mandatory negotiations, such as school calendars or curriculum decisions.

Clarifies the meaning of "companionship services" for purposes of minimum wage and overtime requirements for certain individuals performing such services.

Requires contracting agencies that procure public improvement contracts or contracts for public works and require additional work outside the scope set forth in the public improvement contract or contract for public works to issue change orders for the additional work within a specific time or to pay interest for failing to do so. Requires similar duties from contractors to subcontractors and from owners to contractors in private construction contracts. Takes effect on the 91st day following adjournment sine die.