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Oregon Senate passes measure moving transportation referendum to May amid heated debate over process
Summary
The Oregon Senate passed Senate Bill 15 99 A, moving a transportation referendum from the November general election to a May 19, 2026, primary and accelerating related timelines. Supporters said an earlier vote provides clarity for a strained transportation system; opponents said the change curtails public participation and burdens political speech.
The Oregon State Senate on Feb. 23 passed Senate Bill 15 99 A, which changes the date for a statewide referendum on a transportation funding package to the May 19, 2026, primary election and sets March 12, 2026, deadlines for explanatory materials and financial estimates. The bill, read in full on the floor and carried on a recorded roll call, was declared passed after the clerk recorded a constitutional majority in favor.
Supporters argued the change would speed clarity on how to address an urgent maintenance and safety shortfall at the Oregon Department of Transportation. "By moving up the election date, we ensure that Oregonians can make their decision sooner and that this legislature can move forward with clarity and purpose," Senator JAMA said in support of the measure, stressing a need…
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