BOLI’s Alternative Dispute Resolution Program Secures Over $3 Million in Settlements for Oregonians in its First Year
Portland, OR – In just one year since launching its Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) program, the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) has helped secure over $3 million to date in settlements for Oregonians. The program has supported fair and efficient resolutions in cases in virtually every region in Oregon, with settlements reached in more than 15 Oregon counties. As a result, over two dozen workplaces have committed to improved training, communication, policy changes, or other preventative measures as part of final agreements.
Under Commissioner Stephenson, BOLI’s ADR program was established to provide accessible, free, and confidential mediation services that help workers, employers, tenants and landlords resolve disputes promptly without the need for lengthy investigations or litigation, after initial pilot stage. The results from the program’s first year highlight the tangible benefits of this collaborative approach: faster resolutions, cost and time savings for all involved, and a better opportunity towards meaningful repair.
“I wanted to start the ADR unit at BOLI to ensure BOLI offers a faster, less adversarial path to resolution—saving time, money, and stress for everyone involved. It’s about getting to solutions quickly and constructively.” said Labor Commissioner Christina Stephenson.
The positive outcomes of mediation are reflected in the experiences of both workers and employers who have participated in the ADR program. Participants report that mediation not only provides closure and clarity but also fosters understanding, accountability, and collaboration, benefiting all parties involved.
From an employer Respondent:
Thank YOU so much for your guidance and facilitation of a resolution. I am a big fan of ADR and this was an efficient process.
From an individual Complainant:
Instead of just surviving to the next day or week, now I am able to actually plan a future! It means the world to me.
About BOLI’s Alternative Dispute Resolution Program
BOLI’s ADR Unit is dedicated to ensuring that every Oregonian is treated with fairness, respect, and dignity in their workplace, housing, and public spaces. As impartial facilitators, mediators support open communication, self-determination, and productive negotiation, helping participants reach mutually beneficial agreements.
Mediation is a safe and confidential process where both parties work through a neutral mediator to find common ground. The mediator does not take sides or make decisions but helps clarify issues and foster understanding. This allows participants to control the outcome and craft solutions that may not be available through litigation.
BOLI’s mediators offer full-day mediation sessions and settlement drafting assistance at no cost to the parties.
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