Oregon’s Senate has passed a key bill. This happened on February 24, 2026. Senate Bill 1599 passed by a narrow margin. It moves a vote on gas tax increases. Voters will now decide in May. This is instead of the November general election. The May 19 primary is the new date. The vote was 17-13. It largely followed party lines. This news marks a significant legislative moment for Oregon.
Background of the Transportation Law
Last year, lawmakers passed a transportation funding package. This was House Bill 3991. It included substantial tax and fee increases. A six-cent gas tax hike was part of this. Registration and title fees also rose. A payroll tax for public transit doubled. This package aimed to raise $4.3 billion over a decade. The goal was to fund roads and infrastructure. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) needed this revenue. Agency leaders warned of budget shortfalls. They projected a $242 million deficit. This could lead to nearly 500 layoffs.
Republican Opposition Mounts
Republicans strongly opposed HB 3991. They argued it was a burden on families. A campaign called “No Tax Oregon” formed. It gathered over 250,000 signatures. This forced a referendum. Voters would decide on the tax hikes. The law paused most increases until the vote. Republicans wanted the vote on the November ballot. They felt this honored the petition signers. Senate Republicans staged walkouts. They attempted further delays in the Senate. They called the Democrats’ actions political. Senate Minority Leader Bruce Starr vowed legal action. Senator Christine Drazan criticized the process. She called it a denial of voters’ voices.
Democrats Push for Earlier Vote
Democrats championed Senate Bill 1599. They argued for public interest. They cited deferred maintenance needs. Construction costs have also risen. This impacts ODOT’s ability to fix roads. Senator Jeff Golden stressed urgency. He stated delays are unacceptable. Senator Khanh Phạm highlighted infrastructure damage. Storms have affected coastal highways. An earlier vote provides clarity. It helps the Legislature find solutions. Senate Majority Leader Kayse Jama supported the move. He stated voters want a voice. Moving the vote brings that voice sooner.
The Senate Vote and Deadlines
The Senate vote occurred on Monday, February 23rd. It was a tense session. Republicans employed delaying tactics. They staged a walkout the previous week. This denied the chamber a quorum. They returned to allow debate. However, they voted against SB 1599. Democrats needed 16 votes. They secured 17. Senator Mark Meek was the only Democrat to vote no. The bill now heads to the House. Lawmakers face a tight deadline. Governor Tina Kotek must sign the bill by February 25th. This ensures it makes the May ballot. Election officials need time for ballot preparation. This includes overseas voters.
Implications and Future Outlook
Moving the referendum date has consequences. Democrats aim for quicker funding certainty. This aids ODOT’s planning. It could prevent layoffs. Republicans see it as a political play. They believe Democrats want to avoid a tough vote. This vote would appear on the same ballot as their own reelection campaigns. The tax increases are widely expected to fail. Republicans warn of legal challenges. They argue the date change defies the petition’s intent. The May 19 primary offers a new battleground. Oregon voters will weigh in on this issue soon. The outcome affects state finances. It also shapes the political landscape. This news from Oregon continues to unfold.
