Oregon Democrats Push to Move Gas Tax Vote to Primary

Lawmakers aim to fast-track controversial bill before legislative session ends

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Oregon lawmakers are racing to pass a bill that would move the public vote on a proposed gas tax increase from the November general election to the May primary. The bill, SB 1599, aims to raise taxes and fees to fill a $240 million budget gap for the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).

Why it matters

The proposed gas tax hike has been a contentious issue, with critics arguing it would place an undue burden on consumers already facing high inflation. Moving the vote to the primary could give Democrats a better chance of passing the measure, as primary electorates tend to be more partisan.

The details

SB 1599 would increase various taxes and fees, including the state's gas tax, in order to address ODOT's $240 million budget shortfall. The bill is scheduled for a vote in the Oregon legislature before the current session ends on Wednesday.

  • The Oregon legislative session is scheduled to end on Wednesday, February 26, 2026.
  • SB 1599, the bill to increase taxes and fees, is set for a vote before the session ends.

The players

Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT)

The state agency responsible for maintaining and improving Oregon's transportation infrastructure, which is facing a $240 million budget gap.

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The takeaway

The proposed gas tax hike has become a politically charged issue, with Democrats hoping to fast-track the vote to the primary in order to increase their chances of passing the measure. However, critics argue that the tax increase would place an undue burden on consumers during a period of high inflation.