In response to an uptick in threats against election workers after the 2020 election, Oregon lawmakers passed a measure this session that gives them greater protections. House Bill 4144 increases the penalties for harassing election workers and shields their personal information. The bill comes at the request of Secretary of State Shemia Fagan. In a survey of Oregon Elections Division workers in her office, Fagan found 10 of the 13 people who responded had experienced threats or harassment. Secretary of State’s office communications director Ben Morris says this measure will bolster what are already well-run elections. Under the measure, the maximum penalty for harassing an election worker is punishable by 364 days in prison and a $6,250 fine.