Oregon Session Begins with Most Areas of the Capitol Now Open

Posted by Pam Leavitt on February 2, 2026

The 2026 Oregon Legislative Session opens today for the 83^rd Legislative Assembly, the “short session” which can last up to 35 days.  Today, 30 senators and 60 representatives will come together in Salem to kick off the next few weeks of a fast-paced session with limited time for working out agreements on controversial bills.

Some of the key issues touted by Legislative leaders are responding to the transportation package, federal government issues, improving affordability and prosperity for Oregonians, and rebalancing the state budget.

The Oregon State Capitol in Salem is in the final stretch of a decade‑long renovation and is effectively reopening in stages, with a full reopening aligned to early February 2026.

New Capitol gift shop

Capitol Cafe

The large, three‑phase modernization and seismic upgrade project that began in 2016 mostly concludes to coincide with the start of this legislative session. Some exterior elements will lag slightly: the North Plaza is expected to reopen in mid‑March 2026, with minor repairs and upgrades continuing after the session.​ The renovated lower level (concourse/basement) has higher ceilings, more natural light, and expanded public amenities, and is expected to become a main public hub once fully open.​​

Hearing Room

New Rotunda

Don’t miss out! Register for the Oregon Legislative Lunch today: This is an important session and it’s critical that credit unions are present and unified in making our voice heard. More details and registration are available here—we hope you and your team can join us.

Posted in Advocacy on the Move, Oregon Advocacy.