A resolution to authorize representation by the Senate Legal Counsel in the case of Desmond Bellard v. Ronald Wyden, U.S. Senator.
This Senate resolution authorizes the Senate Legal Counsel to represent Senator Ronald Wyden in the civil case Desmond Bellard v. Ronald Wyden, U.S. Senator, currently pending in the Oregon Supreme Court (case number S071813). The authorization rests on the Ethics in Government Act of 1978, which allows the Senate to direct its counsel to defend Members of the Senate in civil actions arising from their official responsibilities. In effect, the resolution ensures that the Senate’s legal office will provide defense services to Wyden in this matter related to his official duties, rather than Wyden seeking private counsel at public expense. The measure reflects a formal, procedural step taken by the Senate to shield a member from personal liability in the course of official duties.
Key Points
- 1Authorization of representation: The Senate Legal Counsel is empowered to represent Senator Wyden in the Bellard v. Wyden case.
- 2Legal basis: Representation is permitted under the Ethics in Government Act of 1978, codified at 2 U.S.C. sections 288b(a) and 288c(a)(1).
- 3Case context: Desmond Bellard v. Ronald Wyden, U.S. Senator, is pending in the Oregon Supreme Court as case No. S071813.
- 4Procedural action: The resolution explicitly states the Senate’s authorization and was submitted and agreed to by the Senate.
- 5Scope of representation: The authorization covers representation for a civil action related to Wyden’s official responsibilities as a U.S. Senator; it does not imply a broader policy change or affect non-official matters.