State Rep. Emerson Levy Explains “No Vote” on Moving Gas Tax Referendum to May

Oregon State Representative Emerson Levy explained her decision to vote against a measure to move a vote on gas tax and vehicle fee increases from November to May. Levy stated her vote was based on the overwhelming feedback she received from her constituents in Bend, who opposed the change. She emphasized her commitment to representing her district over her political party, stating, “Going into the legislature, I've always felt that my job is to represent my district, not my party.”

The move to a May vote is being challenged in court by Senator Bruce Starr and Representative Ed Deihl, who filed a lawsuit against Secretary of State Tobias Reed. The lawsuit aims to keep the vote on the November ballot, citing a legislative standoff and the difficulty of gathering the required 500 signatures for the voter's pamphlet by the May election deadline.

The disagreement stems from a budget gap at the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). Lawmakers are divided on how to address the shortfall and may call a special session, or wait until the next long session to resolve the issue.

(Source：Ktvz)