Oregon lawmakers are advancing a bill. This bill aims to move a transportation tax referendum. It shifts the vote from November to May. The proposed date is May 19. This aligns with the state’s primary election. Senate Bill 1599 is the vehicle for this change. A joint subcommittee advanced the bill. The vote was along party lines.
The Oregon Department of Transportation’s Financial Woes
Oregon’s transportation system faces significant challenges. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has a large budget gap. This gap is projected at $354 million for the 2025-2027 biennium. Some estimates place it at $242 million. Declining gas tax revenue is a major factor. Fuel-efficient cars and electric vehicles reduce gas consumption. High inflation also increases maintenance costs. ODOT’s flat tax rates do not keep pace with inflation. The agency needs more funding for basic maintenance. Much of ODOT’s revenue is legally restricted. These funds must go to construction projects. This leaves little for day-to-day upkeep. Without action, ODOT faces cuts. This could mean nearly 1,000 job losses. Maintenance stations might close. Crash response times could increase.
The Controversial Transportation Law and Referendum
In a special session, Oregon lawmakers passed House Bill 3991. This bill aimed to raise $4.3 billion over 10 years. It included gas tax hikes. It also raised vehicle registration and title fees. Additionally, it increased a payroll tax for transit services. Petitioners, led by the “No Tax Oregon” campaign, gathered signatures. This forced a referendum. The referendum suspended most of HB 3991’s revenue increases. The vote was originally scheduled for the November general election. This general election date would have had higher voter turnout.
Why Move the Vote to May?
Democratic lawmakers want to move the referendum date. They cite the need for funding certainty. Supporters argue this allows voters to weigh in sooner. It also provides clarity for long-term funding solutions. Senate President Rob Wagner stated it achieves these goals. House Speaker Julie Fahey echoed this sentiment. Moving the vote prevents Democrats from appearing on the same ballot as an unpopular tax hike in November. They cannot repeal a law referred to voters. However, they can change the election date.
Opposition and Concerns
Opponents criticize the move. They see it as subverting voter will. Republicans argue it protects Democrats from electoral consequences. They believe it is a political maneuver. The “No Tax Oregon” campaign is fighting the change. Over 4,500 people submitted testimony against the bill. More than 200 registered to speak against it. Critics point out that petitioners expected a November vote. They feel this move undermines democratic processes. Lower turnout in the May primary is a concern. This could limit voter scrutiny and impact. Some opponents threaten legal challenges.
Legislative Process and Next Steps
Senate Bill 1599 moved through a joint subcommittee. Lawmakers voted along party lines to advance it. The bill now heads to the Oregon Senate. Governor Tina Kotek must sign the bill for it to become law. The Deputy Secretary of State noted the legislature must pass the bill with an emergency clause by February 25th. This legislative news highlights the ongoing debate. It underscores the complex fiscal situation Oregon faces. The outcome will impact transportation funding for years to come. It also shapes the public’s trust in state government. This news from oregon continues to develop.
