Oregon Supreme Court Bars Republican State Senators

Introduction:

In a landmark decision, the Oregon Supreme Court has ruled that 10 Republican state senators who staged a record-long walkout last year will be ineligible to seek reelection in 2024 and 2026. The walkout, lasting six weeks, was triggered by objections to legislation aimed at protecting abortion rights and gender-affirming health care. The court’s decision upholds a voter-approved constitutional amendment, Measure 113, which disqualifies legislators with 10 or more unexcused absences during a legislative session from holding office in the subsequent term.

Background:

Oregon voters approved Measure 113 in 2022, responding to a growing trend of legislative walkouts in the state. The amendment aimed to prevent future boycotts by imposing consequences on lawmakers with prolonged, unexcused absences. The 10 Republican senators’ walkout last year prevented the Senate from reaching the required two-thirds quorum, paralyzing the legislative process.

Court’s Ruling:

The Oregon Supreme Court unanimously upheld Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade’s decision to disqualify the GOP state senators from the ballot. The court rejected arguments from five Republican senators who claimed that Measure 113 was poorly worded and would grant them another term in office. The ruling emphasized the importance of considering voters’ intent in interpreting the law, stating that legislators with 10 or more unexcused absences during a session would be disqualified from holding office in the immediate next term.

Implications for Senators and Legislative Session:

The ruling means that one-third of the Senate, comprising 10 Republican senators, is ineligible for reelection. Two senators, Sens. Bill Hansell and Lynn Findley, had already planned to retire, while four others were elected to four-year terms in 2022 and will serve until January 2027. The decision has immediate implications for the upcoming legislative session, as Democrats need at least three Republican senators each day to meet the two-thirds quorum requirement.

Senate Minority Leader’s Response:

Senate Minority Leader Tim Knopp, one of the affected senators, expressed disappointment but indicated that he would not appeal the decision. Despite the significant turnover of Republican senators, Knopp remains steadfast in his belief that legislators should stand on their principles and make sacrifices when necessary. He acknowledged the challenges ahead but maintained that lengthy walkouts might still be justified based on principles.

Conclusion:

The Oregon Supreme Court’s ruling sends a clear message about the consequences of legislative walkouts, affirming the voters’ intent to discourage such actions through Measure 113. The decision’s immediate impact on the composition of the Senate underscores the importance of adhering to legislative responsibilities. As Oregon prepares for the upcoming session, the fallout from this ruling will likely influence political dynamics and discussions on legislative conduct in the state.