Background

In 2022, Oregon voters passed citizen-initiated Measure 113 (68% - 32%). Measure 113 amended the state constitution such that if any state legislator is absent more than 10 legislative sessions without permission or excuse, then the absences would be considered disorderly behavior and the legislator would be disqualified from re-election.

Current Events

The Republican Party (current minory party) has chosen to deny quorum as leverage to block legislation. Tomorrow (18 May 2023), assuming a session is held and based on current unexcused absence tallies, all but 3 Republican State Senators will be barred from re-election. The senators have committed to challenging Measure 113 in court. They argue that the measure violates the First Amendment on two basis:

1) Measure 113 violates free speech by penalizing legislators for engaging in a form of political protest

2) Measure 113, by disqualifying electors from office, violates the right to run for and serve in elected office

Resolution Criteria

The market will resolve YES if:

• The measure is challenged in court and found to be unconstitutional - disqualified legislators may run for reelection

The market will resolve NO if:

• The measure is challenged in court and found to be constitutional - disqualified legislators may not run for reelection

The market will resolve N/A if:

• All disqualified legislators fail to seek reelection for reasons other than excused absences. Reasons can include, but not limited to: term limits, death, dismemberment, legal troubles, or personal reasons.

Additional Info

Ballotpedia Entry for Measure 113

Legal Memo to Basic Rights Oregon, ACLU of Oregon, and Planned Parenthood Advocates of Oregon regarding the constitutionality of Measure 113