HB 4089 – Expands crime of “theft of services” to include non or underpayment of wages/compensation owed to employees and independent contractors, including improper deductions.
Risk of over criminalization (blurs lines between intentional theft and accidental payroll errors or good faith disputes (meals/breaks that employees voluntarily skip). Some actions would be considered Class B Felony with large fines and imprisonment. Vague and unclear language could lead to prosecution of minor issues. Disproportionate impact on small business, agriculture, restaurants, construction.
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This is premature and needs to let the 2025, SB 426, changes play out to determine what if frther restrictions are needed. This proposal will make Oregon even more unfriendly and keep businesses from coming to Oregon.