Press Release: Shemia Fagan’s Law License Restored After Scandal
Former Oregon Secretary of State Shemia Fagan has regained her law license, reinstated by the Oregon State Bar following a federal investigation that concluded without any criminal charges. Fagan, who initially became an inactive member when she assumed office in 2021, requested reactivation in 2023, with the process pending until recently.
Fagan, once seen as a promising Democratic political figure, resigned from her post in 2023 amid controversy. Her troubles largely stemmed from accusations of ethical misconduct linked to her work as a private consultant for a cannabis company while her office managed a favorable audit of state cannabis regulations. The Oregon Government Ethics Commission is set to vote on a settlement agreement that could close their investigation into Fagan. The former secretary has agreed to pay $1,600 in civil fines tied to ethical violations and to settle the dispute, citing the high costs of legal challenges.
The commission’s findings indicated that Fagan improperly leveraged her position for private employment and issued reimbursements for travel expenses related to her children and pet, which they stated she was not entitled to. Although Fagan disputes the claims, admitting no wrongdoing, she has acknowledged the need to resolve the issues diplomatically to avert further legal expenditures.
Additionally, the Oregon State Bar is conducting its own investigation into accusations against Fagan, with potential outcomes ranging from public reprimand to the suspension or loss of her law license. Currently, Fagan is employed by HKM Employment Attorneys, as indicated on her LinkedIn profile. The Oregonian/OregonLive first reported on these developments, detailing Fagan’s ongoing legal entanglements following her controversial resignation.
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