The Oregon legislature adjourned on June 29. On that day, it passed HB 2082, the Secretary of State’s bill to make it more difficult for initiatives to get on the ballot. It makes it illegal for paid circulators to work, until they have taken a class on the initiative process. It requires them to carry evidence that they have taken this class. They must carry with them credentials, which includes a photograph “showing the face, neck and shoulders”. Their petition sheets must be a different color than petition sheets circulated by unpaid volunteers. Those who pay circulators must make frequent and regular reports of pay records to the Secretary of State, and must keep such records for two years after the initiative is submitted. The bill is 38 pages long and has much more than just the points mentioned here.
If this stands, look at the brighter side.
It will be more difficult for the “top two” (aka “open primary”) monstrosity to get on the ballot.
I’m guessing this was aimed at “right-wing” organizers and “rich Republicans”. Can’t wait to see what happens when ACORN has to go through this process. Schadenfreude alert!
Howard Hirsch, Chairman
Lyon County GOP
Dayton, Nevada