Breaking down the transportation funding issue
By Terry Murry on Friday, January 23rd, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
SALEM – It’s been a confusing two weeks in Salem as lawmakers grapple with what to do about House Bill 3991 which provides emergency funding for the Oregon Department of Transportation. It was passed in a special session and included increases to the gas tax and permit fees.
Then, citizens mounted a campaign to require the issue be put on the ballot in the November General Election and came away with more than enough signatures to guarantee that would happen.
Next, in what political observers say was an attempt to circumvent the vote, Gov. Tina Kotek asked legislators to repeal House Bill 3991 and explore other ways of funding when they convene the 2026 session on Feb. 2.
That was followed by the Oregon Attorney General’s Office ruling that it is unconstitutional to repeal the bill since the voters have successfully demanded it be put to a vote of the people.
This led to Gov. Kotek and Democratic leadership in the legislature to call for the vote of the people occur sooner – in the May primary.
“Voters were clear that they want to have a say on this bill, and legislators and our local partners need to know the transportation funding landscape so meaningful conversations can continue,” Senate President Rob Wagner said. “Setting the election date for May achieves both those goals.”
The Oregon Legislature has the power to set the election dates for ballot measures and referendums. The minority Republicans want to see the election stay in November, when more people vote instead of the spring primary, which attracts fewer voters.
“At every step of this process, Governor Kotek has tried to subvert the will of Oregonians,” Rep. Bobby Levy (R-Echo) said. “First, by ramming a highly unpopular transportation tax through a special session. Second, by waiting to sign the bill and delaying the referendum process. Thirdly, by trying to repeal the bill during the short session. And now this. Governo Kotek does not are about Oregonians or about our transportation system. She only cares about saving face.”
Gov. Kotek will be on the ballot for reelection in November.
