Oregon 2026 Regular Session

Oregon Senate Bill SCR206

Introduced
2/2/26  
Refer
2/2/26  
Engrossed
2/23/26  
Refer
2/24/26  
Report Pass
3/2/26  

Caption

In memoriam: State Senator Aaron Lionel Woods, 1949-2025.

Summary

SCR 206 is a memorial resolution honoring the life and public service of Oregon State Senator Aaron Lionel Woods, who died in 2025 while serving in office. The resolution recounts his early life in Chicago, military service in the U.S. Army, career in technology leadership, volunteer work to expand equitable access to technology, and later service in Oregon public life, including roles on local boards, the Clackamas Community College Board of Directors, and the Oregon Senate. It also highlights his advocacy on issues such as affordable housing, broadband access, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, STEM education, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. The measure does not create or amend statutory law; instead, it is a concurrent resolution expressing the Legislature’s respect, sympathy, and gratitude. It directs that a copy be presented to Senator Woods’ family as a formal expression of condolence. As a memorial resolution, its practical legal effect is limited to official recognition and commemoration rather than changes to state programs, agencies, or rights. The general sentiment around the resolution is strongly positive and solemn. The bill passed both chambers unanimously, with no recorded opposition in committee or on the floor, reflecting broad bipartisan appreciation for Senator Woods’ service and legacy. The tone of the resolution is celebratory and respectful, emphasizing his leadership, humility, optimism, and commitment to public service. There is little to no substantive contention in the legislative record because the resolution is commemorative rather than policy-driven. Any discussion implied by the text centers on honoring Woods’ centrist approach and his work on technology, education, housing, and digital access, but these are presented as achievements rather than disputed policy positions. The only notable focus is the breadth of his legacy, especially his efforts to bridge political divides and expand opportunity through technology and education.

Impact

SCR 206 has no direct effect on Oregon statutes, regulations, or agency authority. It is a concurrent memorial resolution that formally honors a deceased member of the Oregon Senate, records the Legislature’s appreciation for his service, and provides for a copy to be delivered to his family. Its legal impact is ceremonial and commemorative only.

Sentiment

The sentiment is overwhelmingly favorable and respectful. The resolution passed unanimously in both chambers, indicating broad bipartisan agreement to honor Senator Aaron Woods’ life, military service, technology career, community involvement, and legislative service. The tone is mournful but celebratory, focused on gratitude and remembrance rather than policy debate.

Contention

There was no meaningful contention in the available record. Because SCR 206 is an in memoriam resolution, it did not present policy tradeoffs or statutory changes that would typically generate disagreement. The only potentially debatable element is the resolution’s emphasis on Woods’ centrist politics and his work on issues such as DEI, broadband, AI, and housing, but these are framed as part of his legacy and were not reflected in any recorded opposition.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OR SCR10

In memoriam: Senate President Peter Courtney, 1943-2024.

OR HCR35

In memoriam: Former Speaker of the House Philip Lang, 1929-2024.

OR SCR28

In memoriam: Charles Benjamin "Chuck" Mawhinney.

OR HCR19

In memoriam: Frank Wayne Smith.

OR HCR29

In memoriam: David Todd Meyer.

OR HCR9

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

OR SCR16

In memoriam: Dr. Ralph Franklin Helzerman Jr.

OR HCR13

In memoriam: Former state Representative Theodore Ralph Groener.

OR HCR33

In memoriam: Frank Cutsforth.

OR SCR29

In memoriam: William D. (Bill) Thorndike, Jr., 1953-2025.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.