Oregon House Bill HCR9

Oregon 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/25
• Refer: 1/30/25
• Report Pass: 2/24/25
• Engrossed: 2/27/25
• Refer: 3/3/25
• Passed: 3/31/25

Caption

In memoriam: Secretary of State and former state Representative Dennis Michael Richardson.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 9 is a memorial resolution honoring the life and public service of Dennis Michael Richardson, Oregon’s former Secretary of State and former state representative. The resolution recounts his military service as a helicopter pilot in the Vietnam War, his legal career in Central Point, his work in Republican Party leadership, his service in the Oregon House, and his election as Secretary of State. It also notes his death while in office in 2019 and recognizes his family and personal values. The resolution does not create or amend any state law, change agency authority, or appropriate funds. Its legal effect is ceremonial: it formally expresses the Legislature’s gratitude, sympathy, and condolences, and directs that a copy be presented to Richardson’s family. As a concurrent resolution, it serves as an official statement of the Oregon Legislative Assembly rather than a binding statutory measure.

Impact

HCR 9 has no direct impact on Oregon statutes, administrative rules, or state programs. Its effect is limited to legislative recognition and commemoration, with no regulatory, fiscal, or enforcement consequences for state agencies, local governments, or private parties. The resolution functions as an official memorial and public record of the Legislature’s appreciation for Richardson’s service.

Sentiment

The sentiment around the resolution was strongly positive and respectful. It passed both chambers unanimously, with no recorded opposition in committee or on the floor, indicating broad bipartisan agreement on honoring Richardson’s military and public service. The language of the resolution emphasizes admiration, gratitude, sympathy, and remembrance.

Contention

There was no notable substantive contention over the resolution itself. Because the measure is commemorative rather than policy-driven, the votes suggest little to no disagreement about its purpose or wording. Any differences in political affiliation are not reflected in the recorded action, which was unanimous at each stage.