Oregon Republican State Senators Disqualification Challenge

Lawsuit filed on behalf of Republican state senators challenging an administrative rule that bars lawmakers who have more than 10 unexcused absences during the 2023 legislative session from seeking reelection in 2024. Measure 113 was passed by Oregon voters in 2022 in response to Republican walkouts that halted legislative business. The petitioners argue that because their terms are complete in either 2025 and 2027, any disqualification would be for terms beginning in or after 2029 and 2031. This interpretation would allow the Republican senators to run for reelection next year. The plaintiffs argue that the application of the temporary administrative rule is inconsistent with the language of Measure 113 and request that the Oregon Court of Appeals review the rule.

On Feb. 1, 2024, the Oregon Supreme Court ruled that the lawmakers with unexcused absences cannot seek reelection.

Last updated: February 1, 2024 11:39 am EST