Green Energy Institute Updates
Analysis of Oregon’s Constitutional Restrictions on Transportation Funding
With the transportation sector rapidly shifting to electric vehicles, pressure is increasing to reduce reliance on gas tax revenues as the primary source of highway funding. Unfortunately, Oregon’s constitution constrains the state’s authority to raise and spend transportation revenues. GEI Staff Attorney Amy Schlusser ’13 produced a comprehensive analysis of Article IX, Section 3a of the Oregon Constitution and the restrictions it places on raising and using highway funds. Amy is also providing legal and policy support to a coalition of advocacy organizations working to advance equitable transportation solutions in Oregon.
Developing a Climate Policy Roadmap for Oregon
While significant progress has been made, Oregon is not on track to achieve its climate targets. GEI has developed an economy-wide climate policy roadmap for Oregon that identifies a suite of laws and policies that will enable the state to achieve its climate goals in an equitable and economical manner. GEI is also conducting an accompanying legal analysis of available policy mechanisms and identifying strategies to overcome legal constraints on state or local authority.
Engaging with the Oregon Public Utility
Commission on Decarbonization Efforts GEI is engaged in several dockets at the Oregon Public Utility Commission (OPUC) that are critical to driving equitable decarbonization efforts in the state. GEI is participating in implementation efforts of House Bill 2021 (100% Clean Energy for All), a law that requires Oregon’s investor-owned electric utilities to provide emissions-free electricity by 2040. The Institute is also advocating for equitable and ambitious transportation- electrification policies.
Representing Intervenors in NW Natural Rate Increase
GEI is partnering with Earthjustice attorneys to represent a coalition of environmental and community-based organizations who have intervened to challenge NW Natural’s proposed general rate revision, the expansion of the gas system, and promotional advertising billed to ratepayers. Staff Attorney Carra Sahler ’02 is overseeing the efforts, and the case is anticipated to proceed through the summer and into the fall, with a Commission order expected in late October.
More Clinic Updates
Public Defense Practicum
Students provided comprehensive legal support—under the guidance of their supervisors—for over 250 individuals who had previously been on the unrepresented list.
National Crime Victims Litigation Institute
This year, students at the National Crime Victims Litigation Institute (NCVLI) tackled a wide range of cutting-edge legal issues impacting victims’ rights.
Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC)
As of summer 2025, the LITC has served 216 Oregonians in a variety of tax-related matters—a significant increase in case volume from prior years.
Green Energy Institute (GEI)
The Green Energy Institute continues to propel forward progress on Oregon’s climate policies despite national pressure to undermine momentum.
Earthrise
Earthrise’s work in 2024–25 spurred habitat improvements for endangered shortnose sturgeon in the Connecticut River.
Western Resources Legal Center (WRLC)
The Western Resources Legal Center (WRLC) offers a litigation practicum to L&C law students with hands-on legal training on behalf of natural resource users.
Farmed Animal Protection Project
The Farmed Animal Protection Project trains JD, LLM, and MSL students to use legal tools to advocate for farmed animals.
Farmed Animal Protection Project
The Farmed Animal Protection Project (FAPP) offers students a two-semester experiential learning opportunity focused on farmed animal protection.
Western Resources Legal Center (WRLC)
The Western Resources Legal Center (WRLC) offers a litigation practicum to L&C law students with hands-on legal training on behalf of natural resource users.
Green Energy Institute (GEI)
Thanks to donor support, the clinic employed several top-notch law clerks to assist us in advocacy efforts.
Crime Victim Litigation Clinic (CVLC)
Throughout the fall of 2023 and spring of 2024, Crime Victim Litigation Clinic students engaged in significant legal work nationwide.
Earthrise
This year marked a bittersweet transition for Earthrise, as Earthrise Director and Clinical Professor Allison LaPlante ’02 left the law school after almost 20 years.
More Stories
From the Dean
Speaking with students is one of my favorite parts of being dean. At Lewis & Clark Law School, I’ve discovered a rare and powerful combination: students who pair fierce dedication to their mission with deep collaboration and a genuine commitment to each other’s success.
A Decade of Dedication:
Professor Lydia Pallas Loren’s Work on the Landmark Restatement of Copyright.
Legal Expertise Supports Migratory Species
Professors Chris Wold and Erica Lyman facilitated a workshop with CMS Parties to discuss the legal contours of some of the treaty’s most important provisions.
Beyond the Bar
Most graduates of law school go on to practice law, working in law firms or providing legal counsel to organizations and businesses. Yet, for some, the lessons of law apply more broadly, and the outcome of their law school education has been a surprising and successful career outside of law. Here are just a few of our alums who followed an alternative route.