September 29, 2023 – Oregon Legislative Assembly: Investigation of Case #59
Jackson Lewis P.C. conducted an investigation of conduct complaints by Senators Cedric Hayden and Lynn Findley against Senate President Robert Wagner. Due to the overlap between the two complaints, they were handled as one investigation. Senator Hayden’s amended complaint is attached as Exhibit 1 (the Hayden Complaint). The Hayden Complaint alleges religious discrimination and creation of a hostile environment when Senator Wagner allegedly denied Senator Hayden’s request for approval of Saturday absences so Senator Hayden could observe the Sabbath. While the Hayden Complaint acknowledges that Senator Hayden is likely not entitled to protected family medical leave under Oregon or federal law, it outlines denials of his request for time off to care for his disabled daughter. It also outlines his request to consult with his counsel and Brenda Baumgart (whose firm along with Jackson Lewis was providing process counseling during the LEO vacancy) regarding Rule 27 and to participate in federally mandated inspections as a federally contracted wildlife firefighter. Senator Findley’s complaint is attached as Exhibit 2 (the Findley Complaint). It alleges improper denial of a request for excused absence to attend church services and generally alleges creation of a hostile work environment in response to Senator Findley’s right to protest by not attending floor sessions. This Report contains factual findings based upon the information made available in the course of investigating this matter.
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