The Oregon Supreme Court on Monday stayed Circuit Court Judge Matthew Shirtcliff’s order that granted a preliminary injunction against Governor Kate Brown’s stay-at-home orders.
Brown has issued multiple stay-at-home orders since March 8 due to COVID-19. Brown’s orders have closed schools, non-essential businesses, and dine-in services at restaurants and bars. In response, various Oregon churches filed a lawsuit earlier in May arguing Brown’s orders are unconstitutional.
Shirtcliff granted the plaintiffs a preliminary injunction on Monday. Shirtcliff found Brown’s authority to issue the executive orders fell under ORS 433.441, a state law governing public health emergencies.
