The high court ruled in favor of the secretary of state’s decision to disqualify the senators from the ballot under a voter-approved measure aimed at stopping such boycotts. Measure 113, passed by voters in 2022, amended the state constitution to bar lawmakers from reelection if they have more than 10 unexcused absences.
The 10 state senators’ quorum-denying 2023 walkout lasted six weeks, the longest in state history, paralyzing the legislative session
Five state lawmakers sued over the secretary of state’s decision — Sens. Tim Knopp, Daniel Bonham, Suzanne Weber, Dennis Linthicum, and Lynn Findley. They were among the 10 GOP senators who had more than 10 absences.
Reacting to the ruling, the Oregon Senate Republican Caucus said in a statement: “The Oregon Supreme Court has officially sided with Democrats on Measure 113, effectively ending the service of 10 Republican senators – one-third of the Oregon Senate.”
The Oregon State Senate has 30 seats.Â
“We obviously disagree with the Supreme Court’s ruling,” said Knopp, the Senate minority leader. “But more importantly, we are deeply disturbed by the chilling impact this decision will have to crush dissent.”
Democratic Senate President Rob Wagner praised the ruling.
“Today’s ruling by the Oregon Supreme Court means
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