Wrongful Termination in Oregon
Oregon is generally an at-will state, but some firings are illegal. Here are the exceptions, retaliation protections and where to file.
Short answer: Employers may not fire, demote, suspend or otherwise retaliate against an employee for reporting in good faith information the employee believes is evidence of a violation of state or federal law, rule or regulation. ORS 659A.199
| Whistleblower and retaliation protection | Employers may not fire, demote, suspend or otherwise retaliate against an employee for reporting in good faith information the employee believes is evidence of a violation of state or federal law, rule or regulation. Complaints can be filed with BOLI. Source: ORS 659A.199 |
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| Job discrimination complaints | Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI), Civil Rights Division. Oregon's main discrimination law covers employers with one or more employees; the disability rules cover employers with six or more. Complaints of employment discrimination under ORS 659A.030, 659A.082 or 659A.112 can be filed up to five years after the event; most other complaints must be filed within one year. |
Where to get help in Oregon
More Oregon employment law
- Minimum Wage in Oregon
- Final Paycheck Laws in Oregon
- Meal and Rest Break Laws in Oregon
- Paid Sick Leave in Oregon
- Non-Compete Agreements in Oregon
- All Oregon employment law rules
FAQ
Is it illegal to fire someone for reporting a violation in Oregon?
Employers may not fire, demote, suspend or otherwise retaliate against an employee for reporting in good faith information the employee believes is evidence of a violation of state or federal law, rule or regulation. Complaints can be filed with BOLI.
Where do I file a job discrimination complaint in Oregon?
Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI), Civil Rights Division. Oregon's main discrimination law covers employers with one or more employees; the disability rules cover employers with six or more. Complaints of employment discrimination under ORS 659A.030, 659A.082 or 659A.112 can be filed up to five years after the event; most other complaints must be filed within one year.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.