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With possible demonstrations next week, Legislature will delay work

The Oregon State Capitol closed its doors until further notice on March 18. (Saphara Harrell/Salem Reporter)

The 2021 Oregon legislative session is still set to officially begin on Tuesday, Jan. 19. But with concerns about Capitol building security, legislative work will be limited until later that week.

Salem, and capitals around the country, are bracing for possibly disruptive protests in the lead up to Wednesday’s inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden. The FBI is working with local law enforcement to prepare for possible unrest.

A group of rioters attempted to breach the Oregon Capitol building during a special session last month. Out of an abundance of caution, neither chamber will convene until at least Thursday, Jan. 21, according to spokesmen for legislative leaders. Legislative committees also won’t meet until Thursday, Jan. 21, at the earliest.