Background

While nearly all states' constitutions require simple majorities to establish a quorum, Texas is one of only four states that require a supermajority of legislators (i.e., two-thirds) to conduct business. As such, legislative walkouts are an effective tool of the minority party to protest bills and business they otherwise would not have votes to block.

In Oregon, notable walkouts have occured in 2001(D), 2019(R), 2020(R), 2021(R), and 2023(R). The 2019 walkout was especially notable because the Governor Kate Brown authorized use of the Oregon State Police to compel absent State Senators to session. In response, the Senators fled to Idaho and Montana, out of OSP jurisdiction.

The 2023 legislative session began on January 17, 2023. If there is no extension, the session will end by June 25.

Resolution Criteria

This market will resolve YES if:

• The Governor or any Acting Governor authorizes OSP to compel absent Senators to return to session before the current session ends.

This market will resolve NO if:

• The Governor or any Acting Governor does not authorize OSP to compel absent Senators to the current session.

This market will resolve N/A if:

• The Oregon State Police are dissolved

• The state government ceases to exist