ORS § 254.095 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 254 / Section 254.095
254.095 City elections officers’ statements of offices, candidates and measures
Status: in_force

(1) The chief elections officer of any city shall file with the county clerk of the county in which the city hall of the city is located, a statement of the city offices to be filled or for which candidates are to be nominated at the election and information concerning all candidates for the offices not later than the 61st day before the date of the election.

(2) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) The chief elections officer of any city shall file with the county clerk of the county in which the city hall is located, a statement of the city measures to be voted on, including the ballot title for each measure, not later than the 61st day before the date of the election.

(b) For each local option tax measure or general obligation bond measure placed on the ballot by a municipal corporation, the county clerk shall file a copy of the statement filed under paragraph (a) of this subsection with the Secretary of State in the manner set forth in ORS 294.474 (Requirement to file materials related to measure proposing local option tax or general obligation bond) .

(3) The chief elections officer of the city shall keep a copy of each statement filed under this section.

(4) If a city is located in more than one county, the county clerk under subsection (1) of this section shall immediately file the statement and information required under subsection (1) of this section with the county clerk of any other county in which the city is located. [Formerly 250.030; 1981 c.639 §2; 1987 c.707 §17; 1987 c.724 §5; 1989 c.503 §13; 1989 c.503 §14; 1989 c.923 §11; 1991 c.71 §8; 1993 c.493 §29; 1993 c.713 §57; 1995 c.712 §118; 2017 c.552 §4; 2021 c.551 §24]

Source: Section 254.095 — City elections officers’ statements of offices, candidates and measures , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors254.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 250.105 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 250 / Section 250.105
250.105 Petition filing requirements
Status: in_force

(1) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) An initiative or referendum petition relating to a state measure must be filed with the Secretary of State for the purpose of verifying whether the petition contains the required number of signatures of electors.

(b) Signatures previously verified on a prospective petition for a state measure to be initiated shall be included in the calculation under this section for the purpose of verifying whether the initiative petition contains the required number of signatures of electors.

(c) When filing an initiative or referendum petition, the signature sheets must be sorted on the basis of the name of the person who obtained the signatures on the sheet.

(d) The secretary shall adopt rules establishing procedures for verifying signatures on an initiative or referendum petition.

(e) A filed initiative or referendum petition must contain only original signatures. The secretary or county clerk shall verify each petition in the order in which the petitions are filed with the secretary.

(2) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Once every month, the chief petitioner, or agent on behalf of the chief petitioner, of an initiative petition relating to a state measure shall file with the secretary all signature sheets containing signatures of electors obtained by a person being paid to obtain signatures on the petition since the previous monthly filing. The secretary shall hold all signature sheets filed under this subsection unless the chief petitioner withdraws the petition.

(b) The secretary shall adopt rules prescribing the dates by which signature sheets must be filed each month. The secretary may not accept signature sheets containing signatures of electors obtained by a person being paid to obtain signatures on the petition before the previous monthly filing deadline prescribed under this paragraph for purposes of determining whether an initiative petition relating to a state measure contains the required number of signatures of electors under this section.

(3) The secretary may not accept a referendum petition relating to a state measure for filing if the petition contains less than 100 percent of the required number of signatures. The secretary may not determine whether an initiative petition contains the required number of signatures of electors unless at least 100 percent of the required number of signatures have been filed with the secretary.

(4) If the total number of signatures required on an initiative petition or referendum petition is submitted not less than 165 days before the election at which the proposed measure is to be voted upon and if the secretary determines that insufficient signatures have been submitted but the deadline for filing signatures on the petition has not passed, the petitioners may submit additional signatures.

(5) The secretary by rule shall designate a statistical sampling technique to verify whether a petition contains the required number of signatures of electors. A petition may not be rejected for the reason that it contains less than the required number of signatures unless two separate sampling processes both establish that the petition lacks the required number of signatures. The second sampling must contain a larger number of signatures than the first sampling. If two samplings are required under this subsection, the total number of signatures verified on the petition shall be not less than five percent of the total number of signatures on the petition.

(6) For purposes of estimating the number of duplicate signatures contained in a petition, the secretary shall apply at least an eight percent duplication rate in the first sampling of signatures on all petitions. If a second sampling of signatures is required under subsection (5) of this section, the secretary shall calculate an estimated signature duplication rate for each petition for which a second sampling is required. The calculation shall be based on the number of electors the secretary determines have signed a specific petition more than once.

(7) When verifying signatures for a state initiative or referendum petition, the secretary or county clerk shall identify on an elector’s voter registration record or other database that the elector signed the specific initiative or referendum petition.

(8) The Secretary of State may employ professional assistance to determine the sampling technique to be designated under subsection (5) of this section.

(9) The Secretary of State and the county clerk, if requested, shall permit authorized persons to be at the office of the secretary or county clerk to watch the verification of signatures on a state initiative petition or prospective petition for a state measure to be initiated under this section. The authorization shall be in writing and shall be filed with the secretary or county clerk. The secretary or county clerk shall permit only as many persons as watchers under this subsection as will not interfere with an orderly procedure at the office of the secretary or county clerk. [1979 c.190 §149; 1985 c.447 §7; 1989 c.68 §6; 1999 c.1021 §1; 2007 c.848 §11; 2009 c.533 §8; 2009 c.720 §5; 2013 c.519 §2]

Source: Section 250.105 — Petition filing requirements; monthly filing; signature verification; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors250.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 255.235 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 255 / Section 255.235
255.235 Nomination of candidates for election to district boards
Status: in_force

Except as provided in ORS 255.400 (Definitions for ORS 255.400 to 255.424) to 255.424 (Notice requirements to bring action) :

(1) A candidate for election as a member of a district board shall be nominated by filing with the elections officer either:

(a) A petition for nomination signed by at least 25 electors, or 10 percent of the electors, residing in the election district for the office, whichever number is less; or

(b) A declaration of candidacy accompanied by a filing fee of $10.

(2) A petition for nomination or a declaration of candidacy shall be filed with the elections officer not sooner than the 40th day before the deadline specified in paragraph (a) or (b) of this subsection and:

(a) Not later than the 61st day before the date of the district election if the election is a regular district election or the first election at which members of the district board are elected.

(b) Not later than the 70th day before the date of the district election if the election is held on the date of a primary election or general election.

(3) A nominating petition or declaration of candidacy shall contain the information specified in ORS 249.031 (Contents of petition or declaration) .

(4) The Secretary of State shall ensure that the templates for a nominating petition or declaration of candidacy provide the candidate with the option to:

(a) Provide the candidate’s race and ethnicity; and

(b) Limit the public accessibility of the candidate’s residence address in the manner set forth in ORS 249.021 (Candidate and public office holder residence address) .

(5) In a district in which a position or zone number is assigned to each office on the district board, each petition for nomination or declaration of candidacy for election to the district board shall state the position or zone number of the office to which the candidate seeks election.

(6) The provisions of ORS 249.009 (Exclusive form of signature sheets for petitions) (1)(b) and 249.061 (One candidate per petition) do not apply to nominating petitions filed under this section.

(7) A nominee for election to the district board may withdraw the nomination not later than 5 p.m. of the last day specified for filing a petition or declaration under this section by filing with the elections officer a written withdrawal of candidacy. The withdrawal shall be signed by the nominee and state the reasons for withdrawal. [Formerly 259.070; 1981 c.173 §34; 1983 c.350 §77; 1983 c.567 §17; 1985 c.808 §46; 1989 c.503 §17; 1989 c.923 §15; 1991 c.107 §15; 1995 c.607 §50; 1995 c.712 §70; 2013 c.1 §23; 2019 c.449 §9; 2023 c.528 §5]

Source: Section 255.235 — Nomination of candidates for election to district boards; withdrawal , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors255.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 248.045 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 248 / Section 248.045
248.045 Proxies prohibited
Status: in_force

Proxies in no instance shall be permitted to participate at any county central committee meeting. At any meeting of the county central committee, the committee may:

(1) Adopt, amend or repeal bylaws or rules for the government of the political party in the county.

(2) By the adoption of bylaws or of a resolution, select an executive committee and authorize the executive committee to exercise those powers delegated to it by the central committee including, but not limited to, the power to fill a vacancy in the office of committeeperson pursuant to ORS 248.026 (Selection of precinct committeeperson to fill vacancy) . In no event may the central committee delegate, or the executive committee exercise, the power to elect a person to, or fill a vacancy in a committee office. The persons selected as the executive committee need not be members of the county central committee.

(3) Except as provided by ORS 248.035 (Transfer of property) (3), grant participation and voting privileges to a:

(a) Person who holds a public office or an office of a political party.

(b) Person who has been nominated for a public office at the preceding primary election.

(c) Member of the executive committee of the county central committee. [1965 c.407 §10; 1979 c.190 §83; 1987 c.267 §13; 1995 c.712 §22]

Source: Section 248.045 — Proxies prohibited; bylaws or rules; executive committee functions; voting privileges , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors248.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 248.026 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 248 / Section 248.026
248.026 Selection of precinct committeeperson to fill vacancy
Status: in_force

(1) The members of a county central committee may fill a vacancy in the office of precinct committeeperson by selecting a member of the major political party who is registered in:

(a) The precinct in which the vacancy exists;

(b) A precinct adjoining the precinct in which the vacancy exists that is within the same county; or

(c) A precinct that is both within the same county and state Representative district as the precinct in which the vacancy exists.

(2) When a county central committee votes to select a person to fill a vacancy in the office of precinct committeeperson, the chairperson of the committee shall give written notice to the county elections official of the proposed selection. The selection shall take effect when the county elections official upon timely verification of eligibility, places the name of the person selected on the list of precinct committeepersons. The county elections official shall then send written notice of the selection to the person and the county central committee.

(3) A person selected to fill a vacancy in the office of precinct committeeperson may be removed from office at the pleasure of the central committee, but, except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, otherwise shall hold the office for the unexpired term and shall have the powers, duties and privileges of an elected precinct committeeperson.

(4) A person selected to fill a vacancy in the office of precinct committeeperson may not vote on the election of county central committee officers at the organizational meeting of the committee as provided in ORS 248.035 (Transfer of property) . A person selected to fill a vacancy in the office of precinct committeeperson may vote to fill any vacancy in a committee office after the organizational meeting. [Formerly 248.055; 1987 c.620 §1; 2005 c.506 §3; 2019 c.675 §21]

Source: Section 248.026 — Selection of precinct committeeperson to fill vacancy; effective date of selection; term; powers , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors248.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 247.181 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 247 / Section 247.181
247.181 Voter notification card
Status: in_force

(1) The county clerk shall prepare and issue by nonforwardable mail to each elector a voter notification card of convenient size containing the name and residence address of the elector, the name or number of the precinct in which the elector resides and a brief statement of the circumstances under which the elector is required to register or update a registration.

(2) When an elector registers or updates a registration, the county clerk shall issue the elector a new voter notification card by nonforwardable mail.

(3) If an elector loses a voter notification card the elector may apply to the county clerk for a new card, and the county clerk shall issue the elector a new card by nonforwardable mail. [1957 c.608 §38; 1977 c.508 §1; 1979 c.190 §50; 1979 c.519 §6a; 1981 c.173 §12; 1993 c.713 §13; 1995 c.742 §4; 2013 c.243 §1]

Source: Section 247.181 — Voter notification card , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors247.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 250.325 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 250 / Section 250.325
250.325 Procedure following filing of initiative petition
Status: in_force

(1) If an initiative petition contains the required number of verified signatures, the city elections officer shall file the initiated measure with the city governing body at its next meeting.

(2) The governing body, not later than the 30th day after the measure is filed with it, may adopt or reject the measure unless the measure is required to be submitted to city electors under the city charter or state law. If the measure is not adopted, or the measure is required to be submitted to city electors under the city charter or state law, it shall be submitted to city electors on the next available election date in ORS 221.230 (Election dates) held not sooner than the 90th day after the measure was filed with the city governing body.

(3) The governing body may refer a competing measure to city electors at the same election at which the initiated measure is submitted. If the governing body refers a competing measure to city electors, it must prepare the measure not later than the 30th day after the initiated measure is filed with it. The mayor shall not have the power to veto an initiated measure or a competing measure. [1979 c.190 §169; 1979 c.316 §14a; 1981 c.909 §7; 1987 c.471 §1]

Source: Section 250.325 — Procedure following filing of initiative petition , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors250.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 260.039 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 260 / Section 260.039
260.039 Content of statement of organization of candidate or principal campaign committee
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in ORS 260.043 (Exemptions for candidate who expects neither contributions nor expenditures to exceed $750 or $3,500) , a candidate who serves as the candidate’s own treasurer, or the treasurer of the principal campaign committee, shall file a statement of organization with the filing officer. The statement shall include:

(a) The name, address, occupation, office sought and party affiliation of the candidate. The address shall be the address of a residence, office, headquarters or similar location where the candidate may be conveniently located.

(b) In the case of a principal campaign committee:

(A) The name and address of the committee. The address shall be the address of a residence, office, headquarters or similar location where the political committee or a responsible officer of the political committee may be conveniently located.

(B) The name, address and occupation of the committee director or directors, if any.

(C) The name and address of the committee treasurer.

(D) The name and address of any other political committee of which two or more committee directors are also directors of the committee filing the statement.

(2) In addition to the information listed in subsection (1) of this section, the statement of organization must include, or be amended within five business days to include, the name of the financial institution in which the campaign account required under ORS 260.054 (Political committee campaign account) is established, the name of the account, the name of the account holder and the names of all individuals who have signature authority for the account. The Secretary of State may not disclose information received by the secretary under this subsection except as necessary for purposes of enforcing the provisions of ORS chapters 246 to 260.

(3) A candidate or treasurer may designate an individual to receive any notice provided by a filing officer under ORS chapters 246 to 260. The candidate or treasurer shall include the name and address of the individual in the statement of organization filed under this section. A filing officer who provides any notice under ORS chapters 246 to 260 to the candidate or treasurer shall also provide the notice to the individual designated by the candidate or treasurer under this subsection.

(4) Except as provided in ORS 260.043 (Exemptions for candidate who expects neither contributions nor expenditures to exceed $750 or $3,500) , a candidate who serves as the candidate’s own treasurer shall file the statement of organization not later than the third business day after the candidate first receives a contribution or makes an expenditure. The treasurer of a principal campaign committee shall file the statement of organization not later than the date specified in ORS 260.035 (Treasurer and statement of organization for political committees and candidates) .

(5) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, any change in information submitted in a statement of organization under subsections (1) and (2) of this section shall be indicated in an amended statement of organization filed not later than the 10th day after the change in information.

(6) Except as provided in ORS 260.043 (Exemptions for candidate who expects neither contributions nor expenditures to exceed $750 or $3,500) , a candidate who serves as the candidate’s own treasurer or the treasurer of the principal campaign committee of the candidate shall file a statement of organization under this section not later than the deadline for the candidate to file a nominating petition or declaration of candidacy under ORS 249.037 (Time for filing petition or declaration) or a certificate of nomination under ORS 249.722 (Time for filing certificate) .

(7) Except as provided in ORS 260.043 (Exemptions for candidate who expects neither contributions nor expenditures to exceed $750 or $3,500) , a candidate who serves as the candidate’s own treasurer or the treasurer of the principal campaign committee of a candidate shall file a new or amended statement of organization not later than the date that the candidate files a nominating petition, declaration of candidacy or certificate of nomination. [1987 c.727 §12; 1989 c.503 §18; 1991 c.107 §16; 1991 c.719 §53; 1993 c.493 §55; 1999 c.999 §4; 2001 c.965 §53; 2005 c.797 §3; 2005 c.809 §4; 2007 c.570 §3; 2009 c.818 §2; 2013 c.756 §9; 2018 c.70 §5]

Source: Section 260.039 — Content of statement of organization of candidate or principal campaign committee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors260.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 253.080 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 253 / Section 253.080
253.080 Duties of clerk on receipt of ballot
Status: in_force

(1) Upon receipt of an envelope containing a marked ballot from an absent elector, the clerk shall keep it safely in the office and, before delivering the ballot for counting, shall compare the signature of the absent elector that appears on the ballot envelope with that upon the elector’s registration record.

(2) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, ballots for absent electors shall be counted and returns shall be made, as nearly as possible, in the same manner as for other ballots cast at the election. [Amended by 1957 c.641 §6; 1961 c.92 §1; 1979 c.190 §209; 1991 c.107 §9; 1999 c.410 §30; 2013 c.520 §3; 2015 c.169 §1; 2021 c.551 §23]

Source: Section 253.080 — Duties of clerk on receipt of ballot; manner of counting ballots , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors253.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 260.715 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 260 / Section 260.715
260.715 Prohibited conduct
Status: in_force

(1) A person may not knowingly make a false statement, oath or affidavit when a statement, oath or affidavit is required under the election laws.

(2) A person may not request a ballot in a name other than the person’s own name.

(3) A person may not vote or attempt to vote more than once at any election held on the same date.

(4) A person may not vote or attempt to vote both in an election held in this state and in another state on the same date.

(5) A person, except an elections official in performance of duties, may not willfully alter or destroy a ballot cast at an election or the returns of an election.

(6) A person may not willfully place a fraudulent ballot among the genuine ballots.

(7) A person may not falsely write anything purporting to be written by an elections official in performance of duties on the ballot.

(8) A person may not commit theft of a ballot or tally or return sheet, or willfully hinder or delay the delivery of the tally or return sheet to the county clerk, or fraudulently break open a sealed tally or return sheet of the election.

(9) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) A person may not:

(A) Manufacture or knowingly use a fraudulent ballot return identification envelope or secrecy envelope; or

(B) Sell, make an offer with the actual intent to sell, purchase or make an offer with the actual intent to purchase, for money or other valuable consideration, any official ballot, replacement ballot, ballot return identification envelope or secrecy envelope.

(b) As used in this subsection, “ballot return identification envelope” and “secrecy envelope” mean those envelopes used to return ballots to the county clerk. [1979 c.190 §392; 1999 c.318 §45; 2005 c.797 §58; 2007 c.154 §57; 2007 c.155 §10; 2017 c.749 §41]

Source: Section 260.715 — Prohibited conduct , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors260.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 260.118 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 260 / Section 260.118
260.118 Treasurer and statement of organization of petition committee
Status: in_force

(1) The chief petitioners of an initiative, referendum or recall petition shall appoint a treasurer. The treasurer shall be an elector of this state. Contributions must be received and expenditures made by or through the treasurer.

(2) The treasurer shall file a statement of organization of a petition committee with the appropriate filing officer. The treasurer shall file the statement not later than the third business day after a chief petitioner or the treasurer receives a contribution or makes an expenditure relating to the initiative, referendum or recall petition. The statement must include:

(a) The name and address of the chief petitioners.

(b) The name and address of the treasurer appointed under subsection (1) of this section.

(c) A designation of the initiative, referendum or recall petition. The designation of the recall petition must include the name of the officer whose recall is demanded.

(3) In addition to the information listed in subsection (2) of this section, the statement of organization must include, or be amended within five business days to include, the name of the financial institution in which the petition account required under ORS 260.054 (Political committee campaign account) is established, the name of the account, the name of the account holder and the names of all individuals who have signature authority for the account. The Secretary of State may not disclose information received by the secretary under this subsection except as necessary for purposes of enforcing the provisions of ORS chapters 246 to 260.

(4) A treasurer may designate an elector of this state to be liable for any civil penalty imposed under ORS 260.232 (Civil penalty for failure to file statement or to include required information) . The treasurer shall include the name and address of any elector designated under this subsection in a statement of organization filed under this section.

(5) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, if there is a change in the information submitted in a statement of organization under subsections (2) and (3) of this section, the treasurer shall file an amended statement of organization not later than the 10th day after the change in information.

(6) The treasurer of an initiative, referendum or recall petition committee shall use the electronic filing system adopted under ORS 260.057 (Electronic campaign finance filing system) to file with the Secretary of State statements of contributions received and expenditures made by the petition committee, as described in ORS 260.083 (Contents of statements) .

(7) The treasurer of an initiative petition committee shall file a statement described in subsection (6) of this section not later than seven calendar days after a contribution is received or an expenditure is made. This subsection applies to contributions received and expenditures made:

(a) During the period beginning on the 42nd calendar day before the date that is four months before a general election and ending on the date that is four months before a general election; and

(b) During the period beginning on the 42nd calendar day before the date of any primary election and ending on the date of the primary election and the period beginning on the 42nd calendar day before the date of any general election and ending on the date of the general election.

(8) The treasurer of a referendum petition committee or a recall petition committee shall file a statement described in subsection (6) of this section not later than seven calendar days after a contribution is received or an expenditure is made. This subsection applies:

(a) For a referendum petition committee, to contributions received and expenditures made during the period beginning on the date the treasurer is appointed under subsection (1) of this section and ending on the deadline for submitting signatures for verification; and

(b) For a recall petition committee, to contributions received and expenditures made during the period beginning on the day on which the recall petition is filed under ORS 249.865 (Filing prospective petition) and ending on the deadline for submitting signatures for verification.

(9) Except as provided in subsection (10) of this section, during a period not described in subsection (7) or (8) of this section, a treasurer of an initiative, referendum or recall petition committee shall file a statement described in subsection (6) of this section not later than 30 calendar days after a contribution is received or an expenditure is made.

(10) If a treasurer of an initiative petition committee receives a contribution or makes an expenditure prior to the 42nd calendar day before the date that is four months before a general election, or the 42nd day before the date of the primary election or general election, and the treasurer has not filed a statement of the contribution or expenditure under subsection (6) of this section by the 43rd calendar day before the date that is four months before a general election, or the 43rd day before the date of the primary election or general election, the treasurer shall file a statement described in subsection (6) of this section not later than the 35th calendar day before the date that is four months before a general election, or not later than whichever of the following dates occurs first:

(a) The date required under subsection (9) of this section; or

(b) The 35th day before the date of the primary election or general election.

(11) For an initiative petition committee, the accounting period for the first statement filed under this section begins on the date the treasurer is appointed under subsection (1) of this section.

(12) Each statement required under this section must be signed and certified as true by the treasurer. Signatures must be supplied in the manner specified by the secretary by rule.

(13) Subsections (6) to (12) of this section do not apply to petition committees that file certificates under ORS 260.112 (Filing of certificate by candidate or treasurer of political committee or petition committee who expects neither contributions nor expenditures to exceed $3,500) .

(14) As used in this section, “contribution” and “expenditure” include a contribution or expenditure to or on behalf of an initiative, referendum or recall petition. [1983 c.71 §6; 1985 c.808 §57; 1987 c.210 §2; 1987 c.727 §8; 1991 c.719 §54; 1993 c.493 §§70,71; 1995 c.607 §57; 1999 c.999 §11; 2001 c.732 §1; 2001 c.965 §56; 2005 c.797 §16; 2005 c.809 §37; 2007 c.848 §13; 2009 c.818 §12; 2013 c.756 §4; 2017 c.517 §3; 2017 c.749 §54; 2018 c.70 §3]

Source: Section 260.118 — Treasurer and statement of organization of petition committee; filing electronic statements of contributions and expenditures; schedule; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors260.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 254.235 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 254 / Section 254.235
254.235 Testing of voting machines and vote tally systems
Status: in_force

(1) Not later than seven days before an election in which voting machines or vote tally systems are used, the county clerk shall:

(a) Conduct a preparatory test of the machine and system for logic and accuracy to ensure that each ballot format, where appropriate, correctly tallies ballots in each electoral contest by precinct; and

(b) Conduct a public certification test for the vote tally system using a selection of precincts, ballot formats and electoral districts from the preparatory test conducted under this subsection.

(2) Prior to the public certification test under subsection (1)(b) of this section, the county clerk shall mail to each affiliate of a major or minor political party within the county that has notified the clerk that notice is desired, a notice of the time and place where the vote tally system will be publicly tested. One representative of each party is entitled to be present to ensure that the testing is done properly. In nonpartisan elections each candidate may designate one representative who has the same powers as the political party representatives. The party and candidate representatives shall certify that they have witnessed the testing. The certificates shall be filed with the county clerk. [1979 c.190 §247; 1993 c.797 §23; 2001 c.965 §22; 2007 c.154 §32; 2009 c.592 §4]

Source: Section 254.235 — Testing of voting machines and vote tally systems; notice of test , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors254.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 260.665 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 260 / Section 260.665
260.665 Undue influence to affect registration, voting, candidacy, signing petitions
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section, “undue influence” means force, violence, restraint or the threat of it, inflicting injury, damage, harm, loss of employment or other loss or the threat of it, or giving or promising to give money, employment or other thing of value.

(2) A person, acting either alone or with or through any other person, may not directly or indirectly subject any person to undue influence with the intent to induce any person to:

(a) Register or vote;

(b) Refrain from registering or voting;

(c) Register or vote in any particular manner;

(d) Be or refrain from or cease being a candidate;

(e) Contribute or refrain from contributing to any candidate, political party or political committee;

(f) Render or refrain from rendering services to any candidate, political party or political committee;

(g) Challenge or refrain from challenging a person offering to vote;

(h) Apply or refrain from applying for a ballot as an absent elector; or

(i) Sign or refrain from signing a prospective petition or an initiative, referendum, recall or candidate nominating petition.

(3) A person may not solicit or accept money or other thing of value as an inducement to act as prohibited by subsection (2) of this section.

(4) This section does not prohibit:

(a) The employment of persons to render services to candidates, political parties or political committees;

(b) The public distribution by candidates, political parties or political committees of sample ballots or other items readily available to the public without charge, even though the distributor incurs costs in the distribution;

(c) Public or nonpromissory statements by or on behalf of a candidate of the candidate’s intentions or purposes if elected;

(d) A promise by a candidate to employ any person as administrative assistant, secretary or other direct personal aide;

(e) Free custody and care of minor children of persons during the time those persons are absent from those children for voting purposes;

(f) For persons voting, free transportation to and from places designated for the deposit of ballots under ORS 254.470 (Procedures for conducting election by mail) or to and from locations described in ORS 254.472 (Compartments for marking ballots) or 254.474 (Voting booths for primary and general elections) ; but no means of advertising, solicitation or inducement to influence the vote of persons transported may be used with that transportation;

(g) Individuals or political committees from providing refreshments incidental to a gathering in support of or in opposition to a candidate, political committee or measure;

(h) The public distribution of registration cards by a person approved by the Secretary of State under ORS 247.171 (State and federal voter registration cards) to print, copy or otherwise prepare and distribute registration cards, even though the distributor incurs costs in the distribution; or

(i) An elections official from providing return identification envelopes for ballots that may be returned by mail at no cost to the elector under ORS 254.473 (State payment for return of ballots by mail) . [Formerly 260.412; 1983 c.83 §31; 1987 c.464 §1; 1987 c.727 §10; 1989 c.173 §2; 2001 c.960 §1; 2007 c.154 §53; 2009 c.533 §10; 2013 c.520 §20; 2019 c.638 §4]

Source: Section 260.665 — Undue influence to affect registration, voting, candidacy, signing petitions; solicitation of money or other benefits , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors260.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 250.031 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 250 / Section 250.031
250.031 Rules for conduct of election under Article XI, section 11, of Oregon Constitution
Status: in_force

The Secretary of State shall adopt administrative rules for the conduct of elections under section 11, Article XI of the Oregon Constitution, that include but are not limited to provisions that:

(1) Set forth the requirements for an election to which section 11 (8), Article XI of the Oregon Constitution, is applicable that are consistent with the voter registration requirements of ORS chapter 247 and with the federal National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (P.L. 103-31);

(2) Provide directions to election officers for calculating whether the required number of registered voters eligible to vote voted in the election; and

(3) Interpret the words “cast a ballot” in section 11 (8), Article XI of the Oregon Constitution, as meaning that a ballot was lawfully cast, whether or not the vote of that ballot may lawfully be counted for reasons other than the eligibility of the voter to vote. [1997 c.541 §310]

Source: Section 250.031 — Rules for conduct of election under Article XI, section 11, of Oregon Constitution , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors250.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 251.335 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 251 / Section 251.335
251.335 Filing portrait and statement by or for candidate
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section, “district” has the meaning given that term in ORS 255.012 (“District” defined) .

(2) Not later than the date specified by the Secretary of State, any candidate for nomination or election to county, city or special district office within the county, or an agent of the candidate, may file with the county clerk of a county that prepares a county voters’ pamphlet a portrait of the candidate and a typewritten statement of the reasons the candidate should be elected. The portrait and statement must comply with the applicable rules of the Secretary of State.

(3) The county clerk may not accept the filing of a statement or portrait of any candidate unless the filing is accompanied by the appropriate fee described in ORS 251.325 (Schedule and procedures for producing and distributing pamphlet) .

(4) At the bottom of each allotted space of the county voters’ pamphlet containing a portrait and statement filed by a candidate, the county clerk shall include:

(a) A statement identifying the person who furnished the portrait and statement; and

(b) A disclaimer in boldfaced type in substantially the following form:

The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.

[1989 c.1031 §5; 2003 c.468 §2; 2005 c.234 §2]

Source: Section 251.335 — Filing portrait and statement by or for candidate; disclaimer , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors251.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 258.241 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 258 / Section 258.241
258.241 Official return of election after recount
Status: in_force

(1) In the case of a full recount, the abstract of votes resulting from the recount shall be the official return of the election.

(2) Except as provided in ORS 258.171 (Full recount required to change results) (2), in the case of a partial recount, the abstract of votes recounted shall not be certified and the abstract of votes resulting from the original count shall be the official return of the election. [Formerly 251.600; 2001 c.965 §38]

Source: Section 258.241 — Official return of election after recount , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors258.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 260.163 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 260 / Section 260.163
260.163 County or city campaign finance provisions
Status: in_force

(1) A county or city may adopt charter provisions or ordinances that:

(a) Require the filing of electronic or paper statements of contributions received and expenditures made that are in addition to the statements required to be filed under this chapter by candidates for nomination or election to county or city office or by political committees supporting or opposing candidates for nomination or election to county or city office or the adoption of a county or city measure;

(b) Require the filing of electronic or paper statements of independent expenditures made by persons in support of or in opposition to candidates for nomination or election to county or city office or in support of or in opposition to the adoption of a county or city measure that are in addition to the statements required to be filed under this chapter; or

(c) Subject to subsection (2) of this section, designate the county clerk or city elections officer as the filing officer for:

(A) Statements required to be filed under this chapter by candidates for nomination or election to county or city office or by political committees supporting or opposing candidates for nomination or election to county or city office or the adoption of a county or city measure;

(B) Statements required to be filed under this chapter by persons making independent expenditures in support of or opposition to candidates for nomination or election to county or city office or in support of or opposition to the adoption of a county or city measure;

(C) Any additional statements of contributions received or expenditures made that are required by a charter provision or ordinance to be filed by candidates for nomination or election to county or city office or by political committees supporting or opposing candidates for nomination or election to county or city office or the adoption of a county or city measure; or

(D) Any additional statements of independent expenditures made that are required by a charter provision or ordinance to be filed by persons supporting or opposing candidates for nomination or election to county or city office or supporting or opposing the adoption of a county or city measure.

(2) If a county or city adopts a charter provision or ordinance requiring the filing of statements of contributions received and expenditures made or the filing of statements of independent expenditures that are in addition to the statements required to be filed under this chapter, the charter provision or ordinance shall also designate the county clerk or city elections officer as the filing officer for the additional statements.

(3) If a county or city adopts a charter provision or ordinance under subsection (1) of this section:

(a) The county or city shall file a copy of the charter provision or ordinance with the Secretary of State; and

(b) For purposes of this chapter, any additional statements required to be filed by the charter provision or ordinance are considered statements required to be filed under ORS 260.044 (Statement of independent expenditures) or 260.057 (Electronic campaign finance filing system) .

(4) If a county or city adopts a charter provision or ordinance under subsection (1) of this section that designates the county clerk or city elections officer as the filing officer for a statement described in subsection (1) of this section, any reference in this chapter to the filing officer or to the Secretary of State as the filing officer for the statement is considered a reference to the county clerk or the city elections officer. [2005 c.809 §§51,52]

Source: Section 260.163 — County or city campaign finance provisions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors260.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 247.178 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 247 / Section 247.178
247.178 Distribution of registration cards
Status: in_force

Any person may distribute a registration card in any reasonable manner that facilitates elector registration, including but not limited to distribution of the card door to door. The card shall be available at any field office of the Department of Transportation where applications for driver licenses or vehicle registrations are accepted and at any office of an agency designated a voter registration agency under ORS 247.208 (Voter registration agencies) . [Formerly 247.045; 1993 c.713 §12; 1993 c.741 §20]

Source: Section 247.178 — Distribution of registration cards , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors247.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 247.191 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 247 / Section 247.191
247.191 Correction of registration and voter notification cards when precinct boundaries changed
Status: in_force

When changes in the boundaries of a precinct are made, the county clerk may alter the registration card of an elector to conform with the change, and may issue by nonforwardable mail a written notice of the change and a new voter notification card to the elector. This requirement does not apply to a change of precincts for special district or special elections. [1957 c.608 §39; 1975 c.675 §8; 1979 c.190 §51; 1979 c.519 §7a; 1985 c.808 §5; 1995 c.742 §5; 2013 c.243 §2]

Source: Section 247.191 — Correction of registration and voter notification cards when precinct boundaries changed , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors247.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 249.810 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 249 / Section 249.810
249.810 Entries in register of nominations upon filing certificates
Status: in_force

(1) Immediately after each certificate of nomination is filed, the filing officer shall enter in the register of nominations:

(a) The date the certificate was filed.

(b) The name of each candidate.

(c) The office for which the candidate is nominated.

(d) When applicable, the name of the minor political party or identification of the assembly of electors making the nomination, and the names of the chairperson and secretary certifying it.

(e) If the certificate of nomination is made by individual electors, the total number of certified signatures contained in the certificate.

(2) As soon as an acceptance or withdrawal of a candidate is filed with a filing officer, it shall be entered in the register of nominations. [Amended by 1957 c.608 §116; 1979 c.190 §132]

(Withdrawals; Filling Vacancies)

Source: Section 249.810 — Entries in register of nominations upon filing certificates , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors249.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 248.009 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 248 / Section 248.009
248.009 Process for nominating candidates by minor political party
Status: in_force

(1) A minor political party shall file with the filing officer a copy of its organizational documents establishing its process for nominating candidates for public office. The organizational documents shall be filed not later than 30 days after they are adopted. The nominating process for candidates for election at the general election shall provide an equal opportunity to all registered members of the party within the electoral district to participate in the process of making nominations or selecting the delegates who will make the nominations. A minor political party shall file copies of any changes to its organizational documents relating to nomination of candidates for public office not later than 30 days after the date any changes were made. The minor political party shall nominate candidates for public office only in accordance with the procedures set forth in its organizational documents.

(2) A minor political party shall file with the filing officer a list of any officers selected by the party. The list shall be filed not later than 10 days after any selection is made. A minor political party shall file copies of any changes to the list of officers not later than 10 days after the date any changes were made.

(3) Not later than the 10th day before any nominating convention of a minor political party, notice shall be published at least once in not fewer than three newspapers of general circulation within the electoral district for which the nomination will be made. If there are fewer than three newspapers of general circulation within the electoral district, notice shall be published at least once in one newspaper of general circulation within the electoral district for which the nomination will be made and other public notice shall be given that is reasonably calculated to assure that party members in the electoral district receive notice of the convention. The notice shall contain the time and place of the convention, and the office or offices for which nominations will be made. [1993 c.797 §4; 1995 c.606 §4]

Source: Section 248.009 — Process for nominating candidates by minor political party; notice to filing officer; notice of nominating convention , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors248.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 247.955 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 247 / Section 247.955
247.955 Use of lists of electors for commercial purposes prohibited
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, no person to whom a list of electors is made available or supplied under ORS 247.940 (Statewide list of electors) or 247.945 (List of county or statewide electors) shall use any information in the list for commercial purposes.

(2) A person shall not be considered to use for commercial purposes any information contained in a list of electors made available or supplied under ORS 247.940 (Statewide list of electors) or 247.945 (List of county or statewide electors) if the person obtains the list of electors for the purposes of resale to candidates or political committees for political purposes only. [1969 c.421 §10; 1979 c.190 §65; 1989 c.637 §3]

Source: Section 247.955 — Use of lists of electors for commercial purposes prohibited; exceptions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors247.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 254.525 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 254 / Section 254.525
254.525 Test of vote tally system
Status: in_force

If a vote tally system is used, the county clerk shall repeat the public certification test described under ORS 254.235 (Testing of voting machines and vote tally systems) (1) for the vote tally system used to conduct the election. The test shall be conducted after all the ballots are tallied but before the final results of the election are certified or before the vote tally system is shut down. The test may be observed by persons described in ORS 254.235 (Testing of voting machines and vote tally systems) (2). The county clerk shall certify the results of the test. [1979 c.190 §274; 1993 c.713 §36; 1999 c.410 §61; 2001 c.965 §24; 2007 c.154 §47]

Source: Section 254.525 — Test of vote tally system , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors254.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 254.195 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 254 / Section 254.195
254.195 Ballot specifications
Status: in_force

(1) Official ballots shall be printed in black ink upon good quality material.

(2) The governing body of a city, county or district may mail sample ballots to all electors within the city, county or district to assist the electors’ preparation for voting. [Formerly 250.090; 1981 c.157 §1; 1985 c.471 §9; 1987 c.267 §48; 1995 c.712 §60; 1999 c.410 §50; 1999 c.999 §49; 2007 c.154 §31; 2013 c.617 §1]

Source: Section 254.195 — Ballot specifications , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors254.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 253.575 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 253 / Section 253.575
253.575 County clerk duties upon receipt of application for special ballot
Status: in_force

(1) Upon receipt of an application made under ORS 253.565 (Application for special ballot by military or overseas elector) , if the applicant’s residence is in the county, the county clerk, without regard to whether the applicant is an elector of the county, shall mail to the applicant a special ballot, instructions for filling in and returning the ballot and an envelope to use for the return. The office address of the clerk shall appear on the front of the envelope. On the back shall appear a statement to be signed by the absent elector, stating that the elector:

(a) Is qualified to vote; and

(b) Unless prevented by physical disability, has personally marked the ballot.

(2) The completed and signed application submitted under ORS 253.565 (Application for special ballot by military or overseas elector) shall constitute a valid registration for the elector.

(3) If the county clerk receives an application for a special ballot on or after the 45th day before the election specified in the application, the county clerk shall treat the application as an application made under ORS 253.540 (Application for ballot by military or overseas elector) .

(4) A military or overseas elector may obtain a replacement ballot if the ballot is destroyed, spoiled, lost or not received by the elector. The county clerk shall keep a record of each replacement ballot provided under this subsection.

(5) Notwithstanding subsection (3) of this section, a replacement ballot may be mailed or shall be made available in the office of the county clerk.

(6) If the county clerk determines that a military or overseas elector to whom a replacement ballot has been issued at the request of the elector has voted more than once, the county clerk shall not count any ballot cast by the elector. If the county clerk is required to reissue ballots due to a change on the ballot for any reason, that ballot shall be counted in lieu of any previous ballot issued unless:

(a) Only the original ballot was voted and returned; or

(b) The county clerk issued a supplemental ballot that is not a complete replacement of the original ballot. [1985 c.720 §3; 1989 c.923 §2; 1991 c.719 §51; 1993 c.713 §61; 1995 c.607 §37; 1999 c.318 §34; 1999 c.410 §36; 2013 c.520 §12; 2017 c.749 §53]

Source: Section 253.575 — County clerk duties upon receipt of application for special ballot; application as valid voter registration; replacement ballots , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors253.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 253.585 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 253 / Section 253.585
253.585 Receipt of military or overseas elector ballots by Secretary of State
Status: in_force

(1) The Secretary of State may receive ballots from military or overseas electors.

(2) If the Secretary of State receives a ballot cast by a military or overseas elector, the Secretary of State shall deliver the ballot to the county clerk or elections officer of the county in which the elector who cast the ballot is registered.

(3) A ballot received by the Secretary of State under this section shall be considered to have been received by the county clerk as described in ORS 253.070 (Return of ballot from absent elector) if:

(a) The Secretary of State receives the ballot not later than 8 p.m. on the day of the election; or

(b) The ballot:

(A) Has a postal indicator showing that the ballot was mailed not later than the date of the election; and

(B) Is received by the Secretary of State not later than seven calendar days after the date of the election.

(4) If a military or overseas elector returns the ballot by mail, and a postal indicator is not present or legible, the ballot shall be considered to be mailed on the date of the election and may be counted if the ballot is received no later than seven calendar days after the election.

(5) As used in this section “postal indicator” has the meaning given that term in ORS 254.470 (Procedures for conducting election by mail) . [2003 c.64 §5; 2013 c.520 §13; 2021 c.551 §15]

Source: Section 253.585 — Receipt of military or overseas elector ballots by Secretary of State , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors253.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 255.165 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 255 / Section 255.165
255.165 Signature requirements
Status: in_force

(1) Except for a district measure of the Port of Portland, a metropolitan service district organized under ORS chapter 268, a school district with an enrollment exceeding 40,000 pupils or a mass transit district situated in a metropolitan statistical area with a population exceeding 400,000, other than a mass transit district measure relating to a route, schedule or fare change, a petition to refer or initiate a district measure must be signed by a number of electors registered in the district that:

(a) For an initiative petition, is not less than 15 percent of the total number of votes cast in the district for all candidates for Governor at the most recent election at which a candidate for Governor was elected to a full term; and

(b) For a referendum petition, is not less than 10 percent of the total number of votes cast in the district for all candidates for Governor at the most recent election at which a candidate for Governor was elected to a full term.

(2) A petition to refer or initiate a district measure of the Port of Portland, a metropolitan service district organized under ORS chapter 268, a school district with an enrollment exceeding 40,000 pupils or a mass transit district situated in a metropolitan statistical area with a population exceeding 400,000, other than a mass transit district measure relating to a route, schedule or fare change, must be signed by a number of electors registered in the district that:

(a) For an initiative petition, is not less than six percent of the total number of votes cast in the district for all candidates for Governor at the most recent election at which a candidate for Governor was elected to a full term; and

(b) For a referendum petition, is not less than four percent of the total number of votes cast in the district for all candidates for Governor at the most recent election at which a candidate for Governor was elected to a full term.

(3) Except for a district measure of the Port of Portland, a metropolitan service district organized under ORS chapter 268, a school district with an enrollment exceeding 40,000 pupils or a mass transit district situated in a metropolitan statistical area with a population exceeding 400,000, other than a mass transit district measure relating to a route, schedule or fare change, a petition to refer a district measure must be filed with the elections officer not later than the 30th day after adoption of the district ordinance sought to be referred.

(4) A petition to refer a district measure of the Port of Portland, a metropolitan service district organized under ORS chapter 268, a school district with an enrollment exceeding 40,000 pupils or a mass transit district situated in a metropolitan statistical area with a population exceeding 400,000, other than a mass transit district measure relating to a route, schedule or fare change, must be filed with the elections officer not later than the 90th day after adoption of the district ordinance sought to be referred. [1979 c.190 §295; 1983 c.350 §75; 1987 c.211 §1; 1989 c.328 §1; 2009 c.11 §24]

Source: Section 255.165 — Signature requirements , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors255.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 255.145 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 255 / Section 255.145
255.145 Preparation of ballot title for certain measures
Status: in_force

(1) When a prospective petition for a district measure to be referred is filed with the elections officer, the officer shall authorize the circulation of the petition containing the title of the measure as enacted by the district elections authority or, if there is no title, the title supplied by the petitioner filing the prospective petition. The elections officer immediately shall send one copy of the prospective petition to the district attorney of the county in which the administrative office of the district is located.

(2) Not later than the sixth business day after a prospective petition for a district measure to be initiated is filed with the elections officer, the officer shall send one copy of it to the district attorney of the county in which the administrative office of the district is located if the measure to be initiated has been determined to be in compliance with section 1 (2)(d) and (5), Article IV of the Oregon Constitution, as provided in ORS 255.140 (Determination of compliance with constitutional provisions) .

(3) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Not later than the fifth business day after receiving the copy of the prospective petition, the district attorney shall provide a ballot title for the district measure to be initiated or referred and send one copy of the ballot title to the elections officer. Unless the circuit court certifies a different title, or the district attorney determines that a clerical correction is necessary, this ballot title shall be the title printed on the ballot.

(b) As used in this subsection, “clerical correction” means a typographical, arithmetical or grammatical correction that is evident from the text of the draft or certified ballot title.

(4) A copy of the ballot title shall be furnished to the chief petitioner.

(5) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) The elections officer, upon receiving a ballot title for a district measure to be referred or initiated from the district attorney, shall publish in the next available edition of a newspaper of general circulation in the district a notice of receipt of the ballot title including notice that an elector may file a petition for review of the ballot title not later than the date referred to in ORS 255.155 (Procedure for elector dissatisfied with title of district measure) .

(b) In addition to publishing a notice as described in paragraph (a) of this subsection, the elections officer may publish a notice on the county’s website for a minimum of seven days. [1979 c.190 §293; 1985 c.808 §43; 1987 c.707 §20a; 1991 c.719 §29; 1995 c.607 §49; 2005 c.797 §45; 2011 c.607 §12; 2017 c.749 §22]

Source: Section 255.145 — Preparation of ballot title for certain measures; notice , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors255.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 249.737 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 249 / Section 249.737
249.737 Filing officer for nomination by assembly of electors
Status: in_force

(1) The filing officer for the office for which nominations will be considered by an assembly of electors shall supervise the conduct of the nominating convention. The filing officer shall insure that when the assembly of electors makes a nomination, the number of electors required to be present at the nominating convention for the purpose of constituting an assembly is at least equal to each of the following:

(a) The number of signatures of assembly members in the minutes of the assembly.

(b) The number of electors present at the nominating convention.

(2) If an assembly of electors will consider nominations for an office for which the Secretary of State is the filing officer and an office for which the county clerk or chief city elections officer is the filing officer, the Secretary of State shall be the supervising officer under subsection (1) of this section.

(3) If an assembly of electors will consider nominations for an office for which the county clerk is the filing officer and an office for which the chief city elections officer is the filing officer, the county clerk shall be the supervising officer under subsection (1) of this section. [1983 c.567 §11]

Source: Section 249.737 — Filing officer for nomination by assembly of electors , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors249.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 250.044 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 250 / Section 250.044
250.044 When actions challenging constitutionality of state measure must be filed in Marion County Circuit Court
Status: in_force

(1) An action that challenges the constitutionality of a measure initiated by the people or referred to the people for a vote must be commenced in the Circuit Court for Marion County if:

(a) The action is filed by a plaintiff asserting a claim for relief that challenges the constitutionality of a state statute or an amendment to the Oregon Constitution initiated by the people or referred to the people under section 1 (1) to (4), Article IV of the Oregon Constitution;

(b) The action is commenced on or after the date that the Secretary of State certifies that the challenged measure has been adopted by the electors and within 180 days after the effective date of the measure; and

(c) The action may not be commenced in the Oregon Tax Court.

(2) An action under subsection (1) of this section must be within the jurisdiction of circuit courts and must present a justiciable controversy. The plaintiff in an action subject to the requirements of this section must serve a copy of the complaint on the Attorney General.

(3) If an action subject to the requirements of this section is filed in a court other than the Circuit Court for Marion County, the other court, on its own motion or the motion of any party to the action, shall dismiss the action or transfer the action to the Circuit Court for Marion County.

(4) This section does not apply to any civil or criminal proceeding in which the constitutionality of a state statute or provision of the Oregon Constitution is challenged in a responsive pleading.

(5) If a judgment in an action subject to the requirements of this section holds that a challenged measure is invalid in whole or in part, a party to the action may appeal the judgment only by filing a notice of appeal directly with the Supreme Court within the time and in the manner specified in ORS chapter 19 for civil appeals to the Court of Appeals. Any party filing a notice of appeal under this subsection must note in the notice of appeal that the case is subject to this subsection.

(6) If a judgment in an action subject to the requirements of this section holds that a challenged measure is valid, a party to the action may appeal the judgment by filing a notice of appeal in the Court of Appeals within the time and in the manner specified in ORS chapter 19 for civil appeals. Notwithstanding ORS 19.405 (Certification of appeal to Supreme Court) (1), the party may move the Court of Appeals to certify the appeal to the Supreme Court, and the Court of Appeals acting in its sole discretion may so certify the appeal. If the Court of Appeals certifies the appeal to the Supreme Court, the Supreme Court shall accept or deny acceptance of the certification as provided in ORS 19.405 (Certification of appeal to Supreme Court) (2). [1997 c.794 §2]

Source: Section 250.044 — When actions challenging constitutionality of state measure must be filed in Marion County Circuit Court , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors250.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 254.480 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 254 / Section 254.480
254.480 Replacement ballots
Status: in_force

(1) An elector may obtain a replacement ballot described in ORS 254.470 (Procedures for conducting election by mail) . To vote a replacement ballot, the elector must complete and sign a replacement ballot request form. The request for a replacement ballot may be made electronically, by telephone, in writing, in person or by other means designated by the Secretary of State by rule.

(2) The replacement ballot request form shall be mailed or made available to the elector along with the replacement ballot.

(3) Upon receiving a request for a replacement ballot, the county clerk shall:

(a) Verify the registration of the elector and ensure that another ballot has not been returned by the elector;

(b) Note in the list of electors that the elector has requested a replacement ballot;

(c) Mark the return identification envelope clearly so that it may be readily identified as a replacement ballot; and

(d) Issue the replacement ballot by mail or other means.

(4) The completed and signed replacement ballot request form and the voted replacement ballot must be received at the office of the county clerk, a place of deposit designated by the county clerk or any location described in ORS 254.472 (Compartments for marking ballots) or 254.474 (Voting booths for primary and general elections) not later than the end of the period determined under ORS 254.470 (Procedures for conducting election by mail) (1) on the date of the election.

(5) Upon receiving a voted replacement ballot, the county clerk shall verify that a completed and signed replacement ballot request form has been received by the county clerk or is included with the voted replacement ballot. If a request form has been completed and signed by the elector and received by the county clerk, the county clerk shall process the ballot. If the request form is not completed or signed by the elector or received by the county clerk, the county clerk may not process the ballot. [2001 c.965 §27; 2007 c.154 §42; 2008 c.53 §6; 2009 c.511 §25]

Source: Section 254.480 — Replacement ballots , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors254.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 248.380 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 248 / Section 248.380
248.380 Electors’ mileage expenses
Status: in_force

An elector of President and Vice President of the United States who attends at the time and place appointed and votes for President and Vice President shall be entitled to receive from this state mileage expenses at the rate allowed to members of the Legislative Assembly. [Amended by 1957 c.608 §63; 1979 c.190 §92; 1995 c.607 §13]

Source: Section 248.380 — Electors’ mileage expenses , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors248.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 260.675 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 260 / Section 260.675
260.675 Prohibited distribution of ballots
Status: in_force

(1) A person employed or authorized to print official ballots may not give, deliver or knowingly permit any of the ballots to be taken by any person other than the official under whose direction the ballots are printed.

(2) A person may not knowingly print, cause or permit to be printed any ballot in any other form, with any other names, with names spelled or names of the candidates arranged in any other way than that directed by the official under whose direction the ballots are printed.

(3) An official having the duty of distributing ballots, and any persons acting for that official, may not knowingly distribute or cause to be distributed any ballots in any other manner than as provided under the election laws. [Formerly 249.364; 2007 c.154 §54]

Source: Section 260.675 — Prohibited distribution of ballots , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors260.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 253.065 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 253 / Section 253.065
253.065 Delivery of out-of-state ballots
Status: in_force

(1) For electors with mailing addresses outside this state, the county clerk shall deliver a ballot:

(a) Not later than the 45th day before the election to each military or overseas elector; and

(b) Not sooner than the 29th day before the election to each absent elector with a mailing address outside this state who is not a military or overseas elector.

(2) The clerk shall deliver with the ballot instructions for marking and returning the ballot, a return identification envelope and, if used, a secrecy envelope. Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, the return identification envelope must contain:

(a) Space for the elector to sign the envelope.

(b) A notice designed by rule by the Secretary of State, in consultation with the county clerks, explaining that by signing the ballot the elector is attesting under penalty of perjury that the ballot was mailed no later than the date of the election.

(c) A summary of the applicable penalties for knowingly making a false statement, oath or affidavit under the election laws.

(3) For a military or overseas elector as defined in ORS 253.501, the return identification envelope provided under subsection (2) of this section must contain:

(a) Any information that a military or overseas elector is required to sign under the federal Help America Vote Act of 2002 (P.L. 107-252) or other federal law;

(b) Space for the elector to sign; and

(c) To the extent not required under paragraph (a) of this subsection, a notice designed by rule by the Secretary of State that ensures that any military or overseas elector who returns a ballot by mail makes a legally binding assertion that the ballot was mailed no later than the date of the election.

(4) An absent elector may obtain a replacement ballot if the ballot delivered under this section is destroyed, spoiled, lost or not received by the elector. The county clerk shall keep a record of each replacement ballot provided under this subsection.

(5) A replacement ballot provided under subsection (4) of this section may be mailed or shall be made available in the office of the county clerk.

(6) If the county clerk determines that an absent elector to whom a replacement ballot has been issued at the request of the elector has voted more than once, the county clerk shall count only the first ballot received by the clerk and provide the elector’s name to the Secretary of State for further review. If the county clerk is required to reissue ballots due to a change on the ballot for any reason, that ballot shall be counted in lieu of any previous ballot issued unless:

(a) Only the original ballot was voted and returned; or

(b) The county clerk issued a supplemental ballot that is not a complete replacement of the original ballot. [1979 c.190 §207; 1981 c.485 §1; 1989 c.923 §22; 1991 c.719 §50; 1995 c.607 §34; 1999 c.318 §33; 1999 c.1002 §7; 2011 c.607 §4; 2013 c.520 §1; 2021 c.473 §12; 2021 c.551 §2]

Source: Section 253.065 — Delivery of out-of-state ballots; replacement ballots; attestation that mailed ballot was timely deposited; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors253.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 260.044 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 260 / Section 260.044
260.044 Statement of independent expenditures
Status: in_force

(1) If a person makes independent expenditures in a total amount of more than $250 in a calendar year, the person shall use the electronic filing system adopted under ORS 260.057 (Electronic campaign finance filing system) to file with the Secretary of State a statement of independent expenditures not later than seven calendar days after the total amount of independent expenditures exceeds $250 in a calendar year.

(2) A person who files a statement of independent expenditures under subsection (1) of this section shall use the electronic filing system adopted under ORS 260.057 (Electronic campaign finance filing system) to file with the secretary additional statements of independent expenditures made by the person, as described in ORS 260.083 (Contents of statements) .

(3) Except as provided in subsections (4) and (5) of this section, a person shall file a statement described in subsection (2) of this section not later than 30 calendar days after an independent expenditure is made.

(4) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) A person shall file a statement described in subsection (2) of this section not later than seven calendar days after an independent expenditure is made. This paragraph applies to independent expenditures made:

(A) During the period beginning on the 42nd calendar day before the date of any primary election and ending on the date of the primary election; and

(B) During the period beginning on the 42nd calendar day before the date of any general election and ending on the date of the general election.

(b) If the person makes an independent expenditure prior to the 42nd calendar day before the date of the primary or general election and the person has not filed a statement under subsection (3) of this section by the 43rd calendar day before the date of the primary or general election, the person shall file a statement described in subsection (2) of this section not later than whichever of the following dates occurs first:

(A) The date required under subsection (3) of this section; or

(B) The 35th calendar day before the date of the primary or general election.

(5) For any special election, the secretary by rule may establish a period during which a person must file a statement described in subsection (2) of this section. The period may not extend beyond seven calendar days after an independent expenditure is made.

(6) Notwithstanding ORS 260.005 (Definitions) (18), a person who solicits and receives a contribution or contributions is a political committee and shall file a statement of organization under ORS 260.042 (Content of statement of organization of political committee) and the statements required by ORS 260.057 (Electronic campaign finance filing system) , 260.076 (Statements of contributions received during session of Legislative Assembly) or 260.078 (Reporting contributions and expenditures not previously reported) .

(7) For purposes of this section:

(a) An independent expenditure does not include a contribution to a candidate or political committee that is required to report the contribution on a statement filed under ORS 260.057 (Electronic campaign finance filing system) , 260.076 (Statements of contributions received during session of Legislative Assembly) or 260.078 (Reporting contributions and expenditures not previously reported) or a certificate filed under ORS 260.112 (Filing of certificate by candidate or treasurer of political committee or petition committee who expects neither contributions nor expenditures to exceed $3,500) ;

(b) An independent expenditure does not include a contribution to a candidate who is not required to file a statement of organization under ORS 260.043 (Exemptions for candidate who expects neither contributions nor expenditures to exceed $750 or $3,500) ; and

(c) A person is not a political committee under subsection (6) of this section if all contributions received by the person are:

(A) Designated to an identified candidate or political committee;

(B) Delivered by the person to the designated candidate or political committee not later than seven business days after the contribution is received; and

(C) Required to be reported as contributions by a candidate or political committee on a statement filed under ORS 260.057 (Electronic campaign finance filing system) , 260.076 (Statements of contributions received during session of Legislative Assembly) or 260.078 (Reporting contributions and expenditures not previously reported) or a certificate filed under ORS 260.112 (Filing of certificate by candidate or treasurer of political committee or petition committee who expects neither contributions nor expenditures to exceed $3,500) . [Formerly 260.158; 1981 c.234 §8; 1981 c.303 §1; 1985 c.808 §54; 1987 c.267 §57; 1987 c.727 §2; 1993 c.493 §§56,57; 1995 c.712 §73; 1999 c.999 §8; 2001 c.82 §3; 2003 c.542 §10; 2005 c.797 §7; 2005 c.809 §§26,28a; 2009 c.818 §6; 2011 c.652 §6; 2013 c.756 §1; 2013 c.758 §3; 2018 c.70 §2; 2019 c.637 §8]

Source: Section 260.044 — Statement of independent expenditures; when person considered political committee or principal campaign committee; electronic filing; time frames; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors260.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 260.432 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 260 / Section 260.432
260.432 Solicitation of public employees
Status: in_force

(1) A person may not attempt to, or actually, coerce, command or require a public employee to:

(a) Influence or give money, service or other thing of value to promote or oppose any political committee;

(b) Promote or oppose the appointment, nomination or election of a person to a public office;

(c) Promote or oppose the filing of an initiative, referendum or recall petition;

(d) Promote or oppose the gathering of signatures on an initiative, referendum or recall petition; or

(e) Promote or oppose the adoption of a measure or the recall of a public office holder.

(2) A public employee may not engage in any of the following activities while on the job during working hours or while otherwise acting in the public employee’s official capacity:

(a) Solicit any money, influence, service or other thing of value or otherwise promote or oppose any political committee;

(b) Promote or oppose the appointment, nomination or election of a person to a public office;

(c) Promote or oppose the filing of an initiative, referendum or recall petition;

(d) Promote or oppose the gathering of signatures on an initiative, referendum or recall petition; or

(e) Promote or oppose the adoption of a measure or the recall of a public office holder.

(3) This section does not restrict:

(a) The right of a public employee to express personal political views, provided that a reasonable person would not infer that the personal political views of the public employee represent the views of the public employer of the public employee; or

(b) A public employee from communicating with a separate public employee or elected official about the appointment of a person to a public office, provided that the communication is made in furtherance of the recipient’s official duties relating to an appointment required by the Oregon Constitution or a state statute.

(4) Each public employer shall have posted in a conspicuous place likely to be seen by its employees the following notice in printed or typewritten form:

ATTENTION ALL PUBLIC EMPLOYEES:

The restrictions imposed by the law of the State of Oregon on your political activities are that “No public employee shall solicit any money, influence, service or other thing of value or otherwise promote or oppose any political committee; promote or oppose the appointment, nomination or election of a person to a public office; or promote or oppose the filing of or gathering of signatures on an initiative, referendum or recall petition or the adoption of a measure or the recall of a public office holder while on the job during working hours or while otherwise acting in the public employee’s official capacity as a public employee. However, this section does not restrict the right of a public employee to express personal political views, provided that a reasonable person would not infer that the views represent those of the public employer of the public employee.”

It is therefore the policy of the state and of your public employer that you may engage in political activity except to the extent prohibited by state law when on the job during working hours or while otherwise working in your official capacity as a public employee.

(5) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Notwithstanding subsections (1) and (2) of this section:

(A) The recognized student government of a community college or public university listed in ORS 352.002 (Public universities) , or a member of the recognized student government while acting as a member, may make a statement or issue a resolution to promote or oppose:

(i) The gathering of signatures on an initiative or referendum petition; or

(ii) The adoption of a measure.

(B) A member of the board of education of a community college district, a member of the governing board, as defined in ORS 352.029 (Definitions for ORS 352.025 to 352.146 and 352.388 to 352.415) , of a public university or an employee of a community college or public university may take any action as a public employee that is necessary to allow the recognized student government, or member of the recognized student government, to engage in activities described in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph.

(b) Except for facilitating the actions described in paragraph (a) of this subsection, the recognized student government of a community college or public university, or a member of the recognized student government while acting as a member, may not use mandatory student-initiated fees, mandatory enrollment fees, mandatory incidental fees or any public moneys to promote or oppose any political committee or promote or oppose the appointment, nomination or election of a person to a public office, the filing of or the gathering of signatures on an initiative, referendum or recall petition, the adoption of a measure or the recall of a public office holder.

(6) Nothing in this section prohibits an employee of the legislative branch from explaining the vote of a member of the Legislative Assembly on:

(a) An Act that has been referred to the people by law or petition under Article IV, section 1 (3), of the Oregon Constitution;

(b) An Act for which a prospective referendum petition has been filed under ORS 250.045 (Prospective petition) ; or

(c) A constitutional amendment or revision proposed under Article XVII, section 1 or 2, of the Oregon Constitution.

(7) As used in this section:

(a) “Public employee” does not include an elected official or a person appointed as a director to the board of a pilot education service district under ORS 334.108 (Number of board members) .

(b) “Public employer” includes any board, commission, committee, department, division or institution in the executive, administrative, legislative or judicial branch of state government, and any county, city, district or other municipal corporation or public corporation organized for a public purpose, including a cooperative body formed between municipal or public corporations.

(c) “While on the job during working hours” does not include periods of time during which a public employee is taking time off for a meal break or rest break or periods of time during which a public employee is utilizing otherwise allowable time off in accordance with the labor laws of this state. [Formerly 260.231; 1973 c.53 §1; 1973 c.744 §27a; 1979 c.190 §372; 1979 c.519 §35a; 1983 c.71 §9; 1983 c.392 §1; 1985 c.565 §39; 1985 c.808 §62; 1987 c.718 §3; 1993 c.493 §106; 2007 c.589 §§7,8; 2010 c.9 §§15,16; 2013 c.13 §2; 2019 c.377 §1; 2023 c.268 §1]

Source: Section 260.432 — Solicitation of public employees; activities of public employees during working hours; recognized student government exception , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors260.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 249.046 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 249 / Section 249.046
249.046 Party membership required for nomination of party
Status: in_force

(1) If a candidate has not been a member of the major political party for at least 180 days before the deadline for filing a nominating petition or declaration of candidacy, the candidate shall not be entitled to receive the nomination of that major political party. If a candidate’s registration becomes inactive, the inactive status shall not constitute a lapse of membership in the party if, immediately before the registration became inactive, the candidate was a member of the party and was not a member of any other political party within the 180 days preceding the deadline for filing a nominating petition or declaration of candidacy.

(2) The requirement that the candidate be qualified by length of membership does not apply to:

(a) Any candidate whose 18th birthday falls within the period of 180 days;

(b) A write-in candidate; or

(c) Any candidate for the office of precinct committeeperson who becomes a United States citizen within the period of 180 days. [1979 c.190 §108; 1991 c.719 §6; 1995 c.742 §11; 2023 c.136 §2]

Source: Section 249.046 — Party membership required for nomination of party; effect of inactive registration; exceptions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors249.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 246.580 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 246 / Section 246.580
246.580 Content of vote recording system sale agreement
Status: in_force

The sale agreement shall provide for:

(1) Annual payments of not less than 20 percent of the cost of the voting machines or vote tally systems or computers or computer systems, plus interest, payable on or before December 15.

(2) Payment by the county of maintenance, supplies, storage and transportation costs of the voting machines or vote tally systems or computers or computer systems. [Formerly 258.415; 1985 c.808 §1; 1995 c.144 §16]

Source: Section 246.580 — Content of vote recording system sale agreement , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors246.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 253.690 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 253 / Section 253.690
253.690 Casting ballot using facsimile machine or by electronic mail
Status: in_force

(1) A military or overseas elector described in ORS 253.510 (Definitions for ORS 253.500 to 253.640) may cast a ballot using a facsimile machine or by electronic mail as provided in this section. Notwithstanding ORS 254.470 (Procedures for conducting election by mail) (10), a ballot cast under this section shall be counted only if the ballot:

(a) Is received in the office of the county clerk not later than 8 p.m. on the day of the election;

(b) Is accompanied by a return identification envelope containing the signature of the elector and a signed waiver described in subsection (2) of this section; and

(c) The signature is verified as provided in subsection (4) of this section.

(2) Each elector who casts a ballot under this section shall complete and submit a waiver described in this subsection. The elector shall attest to the information supplied on the waiver by signing the completed waiver. The Secretary of State by rule shall design the form of the waiver, which shall include all of the following:

(a) Space for the elector to provide the elector’s full name, residence or mailing address, an electronic mail address, phone or facsimile number where the elector may be contacted and any other necessary information.

(b) A waiver in substantially the following form:

I, _____________, acknowledge that by casting my voted ballot using a facsimile machine or by electronic mail I have waived my right to a secret ballot.

(c) A statement to notify the elector that the elector’s ballot will not be counted unless the elector has complied with the provisions of this section.

(d) Space for the elector to provide the elector’s signature to attest to the information supplied.

(3) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) If a ballot is cast under this section using a facsimile machine, the return identification envelope and waiver shall also be submitted using a facsimile machine.

(b) If a ballot is cast under this section by electronic mail, the return identification envelope and waiver shall also be submitted by electronic mail.

(4) The county clerk shall verify the signature of each elector on the return identification envelope transmitted by facsimile machine or electronic mail under this section with the signature on the elector’s registration record, according to the procedure provided by rules adopted by the Secretary of State. Rules adopted by the secretary under this subsection must limit personnel authorized to verify signatures to the personnel authorized to count ballots under ORS 254.476 (Personnel for counting ballots) .

(5) The Secretary of State shall adopt rules to administer this section and to ensure the secrecy of ballots cast using a facsimile machine or by electronic mail to the greatest extent possible. [2009 c.619 §2; 2010 c.9 §5; 2011 c.294 §1; 2013 c.520 §15; 2015 c.169 §2; 2021 c.551 §11; 2023 c.266 §3]

Source: Section 253.690 — Casting ballot using facsimile machine or by electronic mail; waiver; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors253.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 260.038 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 260 / Section 260.038
260.038 Treasurer of more than one candidate or committee
Status: in_force

(1) An individual may be appointed and serve as treasurer of a candidate, a political committee or petition committee or of two or more candidates, political committees or petition committees.

(2) A candidate, political committee or petition committee may remove a treasurer.

(3) In event of the death, resignation or removal of a treasurer before compliance with all obligations of a treasurer under ORS 260.035 (Treasurer and statement of organization for political committees and candidates) to 260.156 (Rules for reporting expenditures and contributions) , no later than 14 days after the death, resignation or removal of the treasurer:

(a) A candidate shall appoint a successor and certify the name and address of the successor in the manner of an original appointment or certify to the filing officer that the candidate serves as the candidate’s own treasurer.

(b) A committee director shall appoint a successor and certify the name and address of the successor in the manner of an original appointment.

(c) A chief petitioner shall appoint a successor and certify the name and address of the successor in the manner of an original appointment. [1979 c.190 §342; 1993 c.493 §54; 2011 c.652 §5]

Source: Section 260.038 — Treasurer of more than one candidate or committee; replacement of treasurer , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors260.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 251.235 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 251 / Section 251.235
251.235 Supreme Court review of explanatory statement
Status: in_force

(1) Any person dissatisfied with an explanatory statement for which suggestions were offered at the Secretary of State’s hearing under ORS 251.215 (Preparation and filing of explanatory statement of measure) may petition the Supreme Court seeking a different statement and stating the reasons the statement filed with the court is insufficient or unclear. If the petition is filed and served as required in subsection (2) of this section not later than the fifth day after the deadline for filing a revised statement with the Secretary of State, the court shall review the statement and certify an explanatory statement to the Secretary of State. Failure to file and serve the petition within the time prescribed in this subsection precludes Supreme Court review and certification of an explanatory statement. If the court considers the petition, the court may allow oral argument. The review by the Supreme Court shall be conducted expeditiously to ensure the orderly and timely conduct of the election at which the measure is to be submitted to the electors. The statement certified by the court shall be the explanatory statement printed in the voters’ pamphlet.

(2) At the time a person petitions the Supreme Court under subsection (1) of this section, the person also shall serve a copy of the petition on:

(a) The Attorney General;

(b) The members of the explanatory statement committee, if the committee filed a statement under ORS 251.215 (Preparation and filing of explanatory statement of measure) ;

(c) The chief petitioners of the state measure, if the measure was initiated or referred by petition; and

(d) The Legislative Counsel, if the measure was referred by the Legislative Assembly or if the explanatory statement prepared by the Legislative Counsel Committee is the explanatory statement for the measure under ORS 251.225 (Preparation and filing of explanatory statement by Legislative Counsel Committee) . [Formerly 254.230; 2001 c.18 §1]

Source: Section 251.235 — Supreme Court review of explanatory statement; service requirements , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors251.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 254.076 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 254 / Section 254.076
254.076 Register of candidates for nomination
Status: in_force

The chief elections officer shall keep a register of candidates for nomination at the primary election. The register, if applicable, shall contain for each major political party:

(1) The title of each office for which the major political party will nominate candidates at the primary election.

(2) The name and mailing address of each candidate for nomination at the primary election.

(3) The name of the major political party with which the candidate is registered as affiliated.

(4) The date of filing of the prospective petition for nomination of the candidate.

(5) The date of filing of the completed petition for nomination of the candidate, the number of valid signatures contained and the number of signatures required.

(6) The date of filing of the declaration of candidacy of the candidate.

(7) Such other information as may aid the chief elections officer in arranging the official ballot for the primary election. [Formerly 249.070; 1987 c.267 §39; 1995 c.607 §38; 1995 c.712 §54; 1999 c.999 §47; 2007 c.154 §22]

Source: Section 254.076 — Register of candidates for nomination , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors254.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 246.022 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 246 / Section 246.022
246.022 Secretary of State may alter language required in election documents
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other statute in ORS chapters 246 to 260, the Secretary of State may by rule alter the specific language required to be written in documents relating to an election, provided that the alteration in language does not materially change the meaning of the language being altered. [2023 c.600 §18]

Source: Section 246.022 — Secretary of State may alter language required in election documents; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors246.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 260.402 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 260 / Section 260.402
260.402 Contributions in false name
Status: in_force

(1) A person may not directly or indirectly reimburse a person for making a contribution or donation, or make a contribution or donation in any name other than that of the person that in truth provides the contribution or donation, to:

(a) Any other person, relating to a nomination or election of any candidate or the support of or opposition to any measure;

(b) Any political committee;

(c) Any covered organization required to file a donor identification list under ORS 260.281 (Donor identification lists) ; or

(d) A petition committee required to file a statement under ORS 260.118 (Treasurer and statement of organization of petition committee) .

(2) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, a person, political committee, covered organization or petition committee may not knowingly receive a contribution or donation prohibited under subsection (1) of this section or enter or cause the contribution or donation to be entered in accounts or records in another name than that of the person that actually provided the contribution or donation.

(3) If a person receives a contribution from a political committee, the person may enter the contribution into accounts or records as received from the political committee.

(4) As used in this section, “covered organization” and “donation” have the meanings given those terms in ORS 260.275 (Definitions for ORS 260.275 to 260.285) . [Formerly 260.210; 1973 c.744 §25; 1979 c.190 §369; 1991 c.911 §1; 2005 c.797 §19; 2005 c.809 §15; 2007 c.848 §30; 2009 c.818 §16; 2019 c.637 §5]

Source: Section 260.402 — Contributions in false name , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors260.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 250.065 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 250 / Section 250.065
250.065 Preparation of ballot titles for certain state measures
Status: in_force

(1) When a prospective petition for a state measure to be referred is filed with the Secretary of State, the secretary shall authorize the circulation of the petition using the final measure summary of the latest version of the printed, engrossed measure in lieu of the ballot title. On the next business day after the referendum petition has been filed containing the required number of verified signatures, the Secretary of State shall send one copy of the prospective petition to the Attorney General.

(2) When an approved prospective petition for a state measure to be initiated is filed with the Secretary of State, the secretary immediately shall send one copy of it to the Attorney General.

(3) Not later than the fifth business day after receiving the copy of the prospective petition for a state measure to be initiated, the Attorney General shall provide a draft ballot title for the state measure to be initiated and send one copy of the ballot title to the Secretary of State.

(4) Not later than the 10th business day after receiving the copy of the prospective petition for a state measure to be referred, the Attorney General shall provide a draft ballot title for the state measure to be referred and send one copy of the draft ballot title to the Secretary of State. [Formerly 254.055; 1985 c.447 §2; 2005 c.797 §37; 2007 c.848 §9; 2017 c.749 §16]

Source: Section 250.065 — Preparation of ballot titles for certain state measures , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors250.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 253.640 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 253 / Section 253.640
253.640 Coordination with federal authorities
Status: in_force

All public officers having duties under ORS 253.500 (Construction of military or overseas elector law) to 253.640 (Coordination with federal authorities) shall coordinate their efforts with any federal authority to facilitate voting by military or overseas electors, so that these electors may cast their ballots with the least possible interference with the performance of their duties. [1955 c.332 §4; 1979 c.190 §223; 2013 c.520 §14]

Source: Section 253.640 — Coordination with federal authorities , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors253.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 247.292 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 247 / Section 247.292
247.292 Update of registration of elector changing residence
Status: in_force

(1) A county clerk shall update the registration of an elector in the county upon receiving evidence from:

(a) The elector indicating a residence or mailing address that is different from the residence or mailing address for the elector as contained in the records of the county clerk;

(b) The United States Postal Service indicating a residence address that is different from the residence address for the elector as contained in the records of the county clerk; or

(c) The Secretary of State as provided in ORS 247.017 (Transfer of voter registration materials to Secretary of State from Department of Transportation) or 247.295 (Verification of addresses of electors) .

(2) When a county clerk updates the registration of an elector under subsection (1) of this section, the clerk shall send a new voter notification card by nonforwardable mail to the elector as provided in ORS 247.181 (Voter notification card) . The clerk shall include a notice stating that if the residence address or mailing address is not correct, the elector must notify the clerk.

(3) An elector is not disqualified from voting due to any error relating to an update of registration made under this section. [1993 c.713 §17a; 2007 c.881 §6; 2008 c.53 §3; 2013 c.243 §3; 2015 c.8 §5]

Note: The amendments to 247.292 (Update of registration of elector changing residence) by section 5, chapter 492, Oregon Laws 2023, become operative June 1, 2026. See section 9, chapter 492, Oregon Laws 2023. The text that is operative on and after June 1, 2026, is set forth for the user’s convenience.

247.292 (Update of registration of elector changing residence) . (1) A county clerk shall update the registration of an elector in the county upon receiving evidence from:

(a) The elector indicating a residence or mailing address that is different from the residence or mailing address for the elector as contained in the records of the county clerk;

(b) The United States Postal Service indicating a residence address that is different from the residence address for the elector as contained in the records of the county clerk; or

(c) The Secretary of State as provided in ORS 247.017 (Transfer of voter registration materials to Secretary of State from Department of Transportation) , 247.018 (Transfer of voter registration materials to Secretary of State from Oregon Health Authority) or 247.295 (Verification of addresses of electors) .

(2) When a county clerk updates the registration of an elector under subsection (1) of this section, the clerk shall send a new voter notification card by nonforwardable mail to the elector as provided in ORS 247.181 (Voter notification card) . The clerk shall include a notice stating that if the residence address or mailing address is not correct, the elector must notify the clerk.

(3) An elector is not disqualified from voting due to any error relating to an update of registration made under this section.

Source: Section 247.292 — Update of registration of elector changing residence; procedure , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors247.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 258.006 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 258 / Section 258.006
258.006 Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter:

(1) “Candidate” means a candidate for nomination or election to any elective office.

(2) “Contestant” means any person who files a petition of contest under ORS 258.036 (Petition of contest) .

(3) “Contestee” means:

(a) In a contest of the nomination of a person for an office or the election of a person to an office, all candidates for the nomination or office, other than a candidate who is a contestant.

(b) In a contest of the approval or rejection of a measure proposed by initiative petition, the chief petitioner of the petition, unless the chief petitioner is a contestant, and any other person involved in the cause of the contest.

(c) In a contest of the result of a recall election, the public officer subject to the recall.

(d) If the cause of the contest is ORS 258.016 (Grounds for contest) (6) or (7), the county clerk.

(4) “County clerk” means the county clerk or the county official in charge of elections.

(5) “Elector” means an individual qualified to vote under section 2, Article II, Oregon Constitution.

(6) “Full recount” means a recount of all the precincts in which votes were cast for the nomination or office for which a candidate received a vote or on any measure that appeared on the ballot.

(7) “Measure” includes any of the following submitted to the people for their approval or rejection at an election:

(a) A proposed law.

(b) An Act or part of an Act of the Legislative Assembly.

(c) A revision of or amendment to the Oregon Constitution.

(d) Local, special or municipal legislation.

(e) A proposition or question.

(8) “Partial recount” means a recount conducted in a number of precincts equal to the greater of:

(a) Five percent of the precincts in which votes were cast for the nomination or office for which a candidate received a vote or on any measure that appeared on the ballot; or

(b) Three specified precincts in which votes were cast for the nomination or office for which a candidate received a vote or on any measure that appeared on the ballot. [Formerly 251.015; 1983 c.392 §7; 1985 c.186 §1; 1995 c.607 §52; 2001 c.965 §28; 2009 c.511 §12]

Source: Section 258.006 — Definitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors258.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 247.208 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 247 / Section 247.208
247.208 Voter registration agencies
Status: in_force

(1) The Secretary of State by rule, in accordance with the requirements of the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (P.L. 103-31), shall designate agencies as voter registration agencies. Agencies designated may include state, county, city or district offices and federal and nongovernmental offices with the agreement of the federal or nongovernmental offices.

(2) Services required by the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (P.L. 103-31) shall be made available in connection with any registration card at each voter registration agency designated by the Secretary of State.

(3) A person providing services referred to in subsection (2) of this section at a voter registration agency shall not:

(a) Seek to influence the political preference or party registration of a person registering to vote;

(b) In accordance with provisions of the Oregon Constitution, display such political preference or party allegiance;

(c) Make any statement to a person registering to vote or take any action the purpose or effect of which is to discourage a person from registering to vote;

(d) Make any statement to a person registering to vote or take any action the purpose or effect of which is to lead the person to believe that a decision to register or not to register has any bearing on the availability of services or benefits; or

(e) Seek to induce any person to register or vote in any particular manner.

(4) Each state agency required to be designated a voter registration agency under the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (P.L. 103-31) shall, with each application for service or assistance and with each recertification, renewal or change of address form relating to the service or assistance:

(a) Distribute a registration card, including all statements required under the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (P.L. 103-31); and

(b) Provide a form including other information required by the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (P.L. 103-31).

(5) Information relating to a declination to register to vote in connection with an application made at an office described in subsection (4) of this section shall not be used for any purpose other than voter registration.

(6) A completed registration card accepted at a voter registration agency designated under this section shall be delivered to a county clerk or the Secretary of State.

(7) At least once each biennium, the Secretary of State shall:

(a) Assess new and developing federal guidelines regarding compliance with the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (P.L. 103-31);

(b) Identify steps necessary to ensure ongoing compliance with the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (P.L. 103-31);

(c) Identify barriers to and research opportunities for ensuring the accuracy, security and efficiency of current voter registration processes at voter registration agencies designated under this section; and

(d) Identify ways to improve use of current technology. [1993 c.713 §5; 2011 c.374 §3]

Source: Section 247.208 — Voter registration agencies; designation; prohibited activities; required services; assessment of compliance with federal guidelines , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors247.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 251.167 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 251 / Section 251.167
251.167 Secretary of State creation of list of five most commonly spoken languages
Status: in_force

(1) The Secretary of State shall create and make publicly available a list of:

(a) The five most commonly spoken languages in the state, other than English; and

(b) The five most commonly spoken languages in each county, other than English.

(2) The lists created under subsection (1) of this section must:

(a) Be based on the best available data, which may include the most recent American Community Survey from the United States Census Bureau, estimates from the Portland State University Population Research Center and any other necessary data sources;

(b) Include, when complying with subsection (1)(b) of this section, the estimated number of individuals in each county who speak each listed language; and

(c) Be updated at least once every five years.

(3) The Secretary of State shall:

(a) Ensure each state voters’ pamphlet mailed to residents of a county is translated in the manner described in ORS 251.170 (Requirements for translation of voters’ pamphlets) into:

(A) Each language listed by the Secretary of State under subsection (1)(a) of this section;

(B) Each language listed by the Secretary of State under subsection (1)(b) of this section that the Secretary of State estimates under subsection (2)(b) of this section to be spoken by 100 or more individuals in any one county; and

(C) Each language that has previously been listed by the Secretary of State under subsection (1)(b) of this section, even if the language is not included in the most recent list created by the Secretary of State;

(b) Ensure each county voters’ pamphlet mailed to residents of a county is translated in the manner described in ORS 251.170 (Requirements for translation of voters’ pamphlets) into:

(A) Each language listed by the Secretary of State under subsection (1)(a) of this section;

(B) Each language listed for the county for that county voters’ pamphlet by the Secretary of State under subsection (1)(b) of this section that the Secretary of State estimates under subsection (2)(b) of this section to be spoken by 100 or more individuals in the county; and

(C) Each language that has previously been listed by the Secretary of State for the county for that county voters’ pamphlet under subsection (1)(b) of this section, even if the language is not included in the most recent list created by the Secretary of State;

(c) Make each translation of the voters’ pamphlet that is made under paragraph (a) or (b) of this subsection or subsection (4) of this section available on the website of the Secretary of State and of the county as applicable; and

(d) Prominently provide the website address for each translation in the manner set forth in ORS 251.026 (Statements and information included in voters’ pamphlets) and 251.315 (Information required to be included in voters’ pamphlet) .

(4) Notwithstanding subsection (3)(a)(B) and (b)(B) of this section, if the Secretary of State estimates under subsection (2)(b) of this section that no language, other than English, is spoken by 100 or more individuals in a particular county, the Secretary of State shall ensure:

(a) Each state voters’ pamphlet mailed to residents of the county is translated in the manner described in ORS 251.170 (Requirements for translation of voters’ pamphlets) into the most commonly spoken language in that county, other than English, as listed by the Secretary of State under subsection (1)(b) of this section; and

(b) Each county voters’ pamphlet mailed to residents of the county is translated in the manner described in ORS 251.170 (Requirements for translation of voters’ pamphlets) into the most commonly spoken language in that county, other than English, as listed by the Secretary of State under subsection (1)(b) of this section.

(5) The Secretary of State:

(a) May adopt any rules necessary to implement this section; and

(b) Is responsible for all costs necessary to comply with this section. [2021 c.464 §2]

Source: Section 251.167 — Secretary of State creation of list of five most commonly spoken languages; public access and distribution; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors251.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 251.405 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 251 / Section 251.405
251.405 Names or titles of persons or names of organizations excluded from arguments and statements
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the county clerk may not print the name or title of a person or the name of an organization in an argument supporting or opposing any measure or a statement of any candidate, filed for inclusion in a county voters’ pamphlet, if the name or title of the person or the name of the organization is cited as supporting or endorsing the argument or statement.

(2) The county clerk may print the name or title of a person or the name of an organization in an argument or statement submitted for inclusion in a county voters’ pamphlet as supporting or endorsing the argument or statement if:

(a) Not later than the deadline for filing an argument or statement with the county clerk, the county clerk receives a statement signed by the person, or by an authorized person on behalf of an organization, stating that the person consents to the use of the name or title of the person or the name of the organization; or

(b) The name or title of a person or the name of an organization is used with a quotation made by the person or by an authorized person on behalf of an organization, the quotation was disseminated to the public prior to its inclusion in the argument or statement and the quotation is identified by its source and date.

(3) A person may not:

(a) Submit a false signature under subsection (2) of this section; or

(b) Alter the manner in which a person signing a statement of consent described in subsection (2) of this section designates the person’s name or title or the name of the organization the person represents to appear in the argument or statement. This paragraph does not prohibit revisions allowed or required under ORS 251.415 (Type of material to be excluded from pamphlet) . [1989 c.1031 §12; 1993 c.493 §22; 2003 c.233 §3]

Source: Section 251.405 — Names or titles of persons or names of organizations excluded from arguments and statements; exceptions; prohibitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors251.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 250.235 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 250 / Section 250.235
250.235 Retention of petition materials
Status: in_force

The county clerk shall retain the signature sheets of a filed initiative or referendum petition with a copy of the county measure. If the measure is approved by the electors, a copy of the measure shall be preserved as a permanent public record, and the signature sheets shall be preserved for six years. [1979 c.190 §161]

Source: Section 250.235 — Retention of petition materials , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors250.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 249.076 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 249 / Section 249.076
249.076 Qualifications of signers of petitions
Status: in_force

(1) A person who is not a member of the same major political party as the candidate for nomination by the major political party may not sign the nominating petition of the candidate.

(2) Any elector may sign:

(a) A nominating petition or certificate of nomination of any candidate for nonpartisan office;

(b) A nominating petition or certificate of nomination of any nonaffiliated candidate; and

(c) Nominating petitions or certificates of nomination for more than one candidate for the same office. [Formerly 249.051; 1981 c.173 §23; 2005 c.797 §63]

Source: Section 249.076 — Qualifications of signers of petitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors249.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 255.135 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 255 / Section 255.135
255.135 Prospective petition
Status: in_force

(1) Before circulating a petition to initiate or refer a district measure, the petitioner shall file with the elections officer a prospective petition. The elections officer immediately shall date and time stamp the prospective petition, and specify the form on which the petition shall be printed for circulation. The officer shall retain the prospective petition.

(2) The cover of an initiative or referendum petition shall designate the name and city and state of residence of not more than three persons as chief petitioners and shall contain instructions for persons obtaining signatures of electors on the petition. The instructions shall be adopted by the Secretary of State by rule. The cover of a referendum petition shall contain the title described in ORS 255.145 (Preparation of ballot title for certain measures) (1). If the circuit court has not reviewed the ballot title under ORS 255.155 (Procedure for elector dissatisfied with title of district measure) , the cover of an initiative petition shall contain the ballot title described in ORS 255.145 (Preparation of ballot title for certain measures) (3). If the circuit court has reviewed the ballot title, the cover of the initiative petition shall contain the title certified by the court.

(3) The chief petitioners shall include with the prospective petition a statement declaring whether one or more persons will be paid money or other valuable consideration for obtaining signatures of electors on the initiative or referendum petition. After the prospective petition is filed, the chief petitioners shall notify the filing officer not later than the 10th day after any of the chief petitioners first has knowledge or should have had knowledge that:

(a) Any person is being paid for obtaining signatures, when the statement included with the prospective petition declared that no such person would be paid.

(b) No person is being paid for obtaining signatures, when the statement included with the prospective petition declared that one or more such persons would be paid.

(4) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Each sheet of signatures on an initiative petition shall contain the caption of the ballot title. Each sheet of signatures on a referendum petition shall contain the number of the ordinance to be referred and the date it was adopted by the district board.

(b) Each sheet of signatures on an initiative or referendum petition shall, if one or more persons will be paid for obtaining signatures of electors on the petition, contain a notice stating: “Some Circulators For This Petition Are Being Paid.”

(5) The reverse side of the cover of an initiative or referendum petition shall be used for obtaining signatures on an initiative or referendum petition.

(6) Not more than 20 signatures on the signature sheet of the initiative or referendum petition shall be counted. The circulator shall certify on each signature sheet that the circulator:

(a) Witnessed the signing of the signature sheet by each individual whose signature appears on the signature sheet; and

(b) Believes each individual is an elector registered in the district.

(7) Unless otherwise provided by a district ordinance, the gathering of signatures on a petition to initiate a district measure may not exceed a period of two years from the time the petition is approved for circulation.

(8) The elections officer may not accept for filing any petition that has not met the provisions of subsection (7) of this section.

(9) A petition to initiate a district measure must be filed not less than 90 days before the election at which the proposed law is to be voted on.

(10) The person obtaining signatures on the petition shall carry at least one full and correct copy of the measure to be initiated or referred and shall allow any person to review a copy upon request of the person. [1979 c.190 §292; 1981 c.909 §8; 1983 c.756 §12; 1991 c.106 §3; 1992 c.1 §4; 1995 c.607 §48; 1997 c.846 §4; 1999 c.318 §30; 2001 c.965 §7; 2007 c.848 §18; 2011 c.607 §13; 2021 c.473 §4]

Source: Section 255.135 — Prospective petition; cover and signature sheet requirements; circulation; filing deadline , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors255.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 247.555 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 247 / Section 247.555
247.555 Cancellation of registration
Status: in_force

(1) A county clerk may cancel the registration of an elector:

(a) At the request of the elector;

(b) Upon the death of the elector;

(c) If the county clerk receives written evidence that the elector has registered to vote in another state; or

(d) If the elector has not responded to a notice described in ORS 247.563 (Notice to elector whose registration appears invalid) and has not voted or updated a registration during the period beginning on the date the notice is sent and ending on the day after the date of the second regular general election that occurs after the date the notice was sent.

(2) If the registration of an elector is canceled, the elector, in order to vote in an election, must register as provided in this chapter. [1993 c.713 §24; 2023 c.600 §32]

Source: Section 247.555 — Cancellation of registration , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors247.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 258.085 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 258 / Section 258.085
258.085 Appeal to Court of Appeals
Status: in_force

Any party to the contest proceeding may appeal from the judgment rendered by the circuit court to the Court of Appeals in the same manner as appeals in civil cases are taken. The appeal shall take precedence over all other business on the docket. [Formerly 251.090]

Source: Section 258.085 — Appeal to Court of Appeals , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors258.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 250.175 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 250 / Section 250.175
250.175 Preparation of ballot titles for certain county measures
Status: in_force

(1) When a prospective petition for a county measure to be referred is filed with the county clerk, the clerk shall authorize the circulation of the petition containing the title of the measure as enacted by the county governing body or, if there is no title, the title supplied by the petitioner filing the prospective petition. The county clerk immediately shall send one copy of the prospective petition to the district attorney.

(2) Not later than the sixth business day after a prospective petition for a county measure to be initiated is filed with the county clerk, the clerk shall send one copy of it to the district attorney if the measure to be initiated has been determined to be in compliance with section 1 (2)(d), Article IV, and section 10, Article VI of the Oregon Constitution, as provided in ORS 250.168 (Determination of compliance with constitutional provisions) .

(3) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Not later than the fifth business day after receiving the copy of the prospective petition, and notwithstanding ORS 203.145 (Appointment of legal counsel for county governing body) (3), the district attorney shall prepare a ballot title for the county measure to be initiated or referred and certify the ballot title to the county clerk.

(b) If the district attorney determines that a ballot title certified under this subsection contains a clerical error, the district attorney may correct the error and certify to the county clerk a corrected ballot title not later than the 10th business day after the date the ballot title was certified.

(c) A copy of the ballot title shall be furnished to the chief petitioner.

(4) Unless the circuit court certifies a different ballot title, the latest ballot title certified by the district attorney under subsection (3) of this section is the title to be printed on the ballot.

(5) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) The county clerk, upon receiving a ballot title for a county measure to be referred or initiated from the district attorney or the county governing body, shall publish in the next available edition of a newspaper of general circulation in the county a notice of receipt of the ballot title including notice that an elector may file a petition for review of the ballot title not later than the date referred to in ORS 250.195 (Procedure for elector dissatisfied with ballot title of county measure) .

(b) In addition to publishing a notice as described in paragraph (a) of this subsection, the county clerk may publish a notice on the county’s website for a minimum of seven days.

(6) As used in this section, “clerical error” means a typographical, arithmetical or grammatical error or omission that is evident from the text of the certified ballot title or by comparison of the text of the ballot title with a written explanation that was provided by the district attorney and issued concurrently with the certified ballot title. [1979 c.190 §155; 1983 c.567 §12; 1985 c.808 §26; 1987 c.707 §8; 1991 c.719 §21; 2005 c.797 §41; 2011 c.607 §6; 2013 c.519 §3; 2017 c.749 §18]

Source: Section 250.175 — Preparation of ballot titles for certain county measures; correction of clerical errors; notice , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors250.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 254.568 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 254 / Section 254.568
254.568 Certificate of election required before taking oath of office
Status: in_force

When a candidate elected to public office is required by law to take, file, subscribe or indorse an oath of office before entering upon the duties of the office, the candidate shall not take, file, subscribe or indorse the oath until the candidate has been granted a certificate of election. [1993 c.493 §101]

Source: Section 254.568 — Certificate of election required before taking oath of office , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors254.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 254.125 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 254 / Section 254.125
254.125 Nominating ballot for candidates to nonpartisan office
Status: in_force

(1) The names of candidates for a nonpartisan office at a nominating election held on the date of the primary election shall be listed without political party designation on a nominating ballot under the title, and department or position number if any, of the office.

(2) At the primary election or general election:

(a) The names of candidates who are opposed for nomination or election to the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, Oregon Tax Court and circuit court shall be printed on the ballot before the names of candidates for those offices who are unopposed; and

(b) The word “incumbent” shall follow the name of each candidate for the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, Oregon Tax Court or circuit court who is designated the incumbent by the Secretary of State under ORS 254.085 (Secretary of State’s statement of offices, candidates and measures) . [1979 c.190 §236; 1979 c.451 §6; 1979 c.587 §4; 1983 c.7 §4; 1985 c.742 §2; 1993 c.493 §§35,36; 1995 c.658 §99; 1995 c.712 §59; 1999 c.410 §45; 2007 c.154 §24]

Source: Section 254.125 — Nominating ballot for candidates to nonpartisan office; listing of candidates for judge at primary and general elections; use of term “incumbent.” , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors254.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 249.735 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 249 / Section 249.735
249.735 Qualification as assembly of electors
Status: in_force

(1) An assembly of electors is an organized body:

(a) Of not fewer than 1,000 electors of the state for a statewide nomination.

(b) Of not fewer than 500 electors of the congressional district for which the nomination for Representative in Congress is made.

(c) Of not fewer than 250 electors of the county or any other district for which the nomination is made.

(2) An assembly of electors may nominate candidates at a nominating convention. The convention shall be held in one day and last not longer than 12 hours. The signature, printed name and residence or mailing address of each member of the assembly shall be recorded at the convention and entered of record in the minutes by the secretary of the assembly. Not less than the minimum number of electors required to constitute an assembly of electors must have recorded their signatures in the minutes of the assembly and must be present when the assembly nominates a candidate. The candidate receiving the highest number of votes of the assembly for the office shall be the nominee of the assembly.

(3) Not later than the 10th day before the meeting of an assembly of electors, notice shall be published at least once in not less than three newspapers of general circulation within the electoral district for which the nomination will be made. The notice shall contain the time and place the assembly will meet, the office or offices for which nominations will be made, and the names and addresses of not fewer than 25 electors qualified to vote in the assembly who desire that it be held.

(4) Proof of publication of notice in subsection (3) of this section shall be made by affidavit of the owner, editor, publisher, manager, advertising manager, principal clerk of any of them, or the printer or printer’s foreman of the newspaper in which the notice is published. The affidavit shall show publication and shall be filed with the filing officer with the certificate of nomination.

(5) Not later than the 10th day before the meeting of an assembly of electors, a copy of the notice under subsection (3) of this section shall be delivered to the filing officer who will supervise the conduct of the nominating convention.

(6) The presiding officer of an assembly of electors shall deliver the signatures of assembly members entered in the minutes to the appropriate county clerks of the counties in which the assembly members live or to the Secretary of State if the Secretary of State is designated as the filing officer under ORS 249.035 (Filing officer) . The signatures shall be certified by the appropriate county clerk or by the Secretary of State under ORS 249.008 (Verification of signatures by county clerk or Secretary of State) . A copy of the minutes, certified by the secretary of the assembly, and the certificate of the county clerk or the Secretary of State shall be filed with the certificate of nomination.

(7) If the assembly of electors designates a committee to whom the assembly delegated the authority to fill vacancies as provided in ORS 249.842 (Filling vacancy in nomination) , a notice containing the names of the members of the committee shall be delivered to the filing officer with the certificate of nomination. [Formerly 249.715; 1983 c.514 §7; 1983 c.567 §9; 1985 c.808 §18; 1993 c.797 §14; 2005 c.797 §60; 2017 c.749 §46]

Source: Section 249.735 — Qualification as assembly of electors; records; notice; nomination by assembly , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors249.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 249.850 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 249 / Section 249.850
249.850 Filing of certificate to fill vacancy in nomination
Status: in_force

(1) The certificate of nomination to fill the vacancy under ORS 249.842 (Filling vacancy in nomination) , may be filed directly with the officer with whom the certificate of nomination of the original candidate was filed, or it may be presented in duplicate to any county clerk who shall file one of the certificates in the clerk’s office, immediately notify the appropriate filing officer of the nomination and send the duplicate certificate to the officer by the most expeditious method practicable.

(2) Upon receipt of notification that a vacancy has been filled, the filing officer shall certify the name of the person selected to fill the vacancy to be included on the ballot. If the certification of candidates has already been sent to the county clerk, the Secretary of State or city filing officer immediately shall give written certification of the new candidate to each county clerk responsible for preparing ballots on which the office will appear. The certification shall state the name and residence of the candidate nominated to fill the vacancy, the office for which the nomination was made, the name of the minor political party the candidate represents or the name of the chairperson of the assembly nominating the candidate, and the name of the person for whom the candidate is substituted. Upon receipt of the certification, the county clerk shall place the new candidate’s name on the ballot. [Amended by 1957 c.608 §119; 1975 c.675 §19; 1979 c.190 §135]

Source: Section 249.850 — Filing of certificate to fill vacancy in nomination; notifying proper officials to make changes in general election ballots , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors249.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 247.015 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 247 / Section 247.015
247.015 Other registration procedures
Status: in_force

(1) A qualified person absent from the state may register by mailing to the county clerk for the county in which the person resides a completed registration card or a signed statement containing the information required on a registration card.

(2) On written request from a qualified person who by physical incapacity cannot register in the office of the county clerk, the county clerk of the county in which the person resides shall send the person a registration card or register the person at the person’s residence.

(3) An otherwise qualified person who will become a United States citizen after the 21st calendar day immediately preceding an election may register before the 20th day before the election. The county clerk of the county in which the person resides shall cancel the person’s registration before the election unless the person appears before the county clerk and provides evidence of citizenship. [1979 c.190 §42; 1979 c.507 §1a; 1989 c.20 §2; 1995 c.742 §18; 2001 c.965 §1; 2007 c.555 §3]

Source: Section 247.015 — Other registration procedures , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors247.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 260.255 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 260 / Section 260.255
260.255 Preservation of filed statements by filing officers
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, a filing officer shall preserve each statement filed with the officer under ORS 260.057 (Electronic campaign finance filing system) , 260.076 (Statements of contributions received during session of Legislative Assembly) , 260.083 (Contents of statements) , 260.112 (Filing of certificate by candidate or treasurer of political committee or petition committee who expects neither contributions nor expenditures to exceed $3,500) or 260.118 (Treasurer and statement of organization of petition committee) , or an accurate copy of it, for at least six calendar years.

(2) The Secretary of State shall maintain all data filed electronically under ORS 260.057 (Electronic campaign finance filing system) on the Internet for at least six calendar years after the date the secretary first makes the data available. After six calendar years, if the data are not maintained on the Internet, the secretary shall retain and dispose of the data in a manner prescribed by the State Archivist. The State Archivist shall consider the value of the data for legal, administrative, fiscal, tribal cultural, historical or research purposes and shall establish rules for procedures for the retention and disposition of data described in this section. [1971 c.749 §23; 1973 c.744 §23; 1975 c.683 §12; 1979 c.190 §363; 1981 c.234 §16; 1991 c.719 §31; 1993 c.493 §79; 1999 c.999 §19; 2001 c.82 §9; 2003 c.542 §21; 2005 c.797 §18; 2005 c.809 §§44,44a; 2007 c.848 §29; 2009 c.818 §30; 2013 c.758 §12; 2023 c.35 §10]

Source: Section 260.255 — Preservation of filed statements by filing officers; maintenance of data filed electronically; State Archivist rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors260.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 258.200 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 258 / Section 258.200
258.200 Counting boards
Status: in_force

(1) After receiving notice from the Secretary of State that a recount is to be made, the official directed to conduct the recount shall appoint counting boards from the list of electors qualified to vote in the county in which the recount is demanded. The official shall appoint as many counting boards as may be necessary to complete the recount within the shortest practicable time after the demand is filed. No member of the counting boards shall have been a candidate for any office voted upon at the election. The members of a counting board shall not all be members of the same political party.

(2) Each member of the counting board shall be compensated at a rate not less than the federal or state minimum wage, whichever is higher. [Formerly 251.560; 1981 c.173 §38; 1993 c.493 §49; 1999 c.410 §66]

Source: Section 258.200 — Counting boards; appointment; compensation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors258.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 253.070 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 253 / Section 253.070
253.070 Return of ballot from absent elector
Status: in_force

(1) Upon receipt of a ballot the absent elector shall mark it and comply with the instructions provided with the ballot. The absent elector may return the marked ballot to the office of the clerk, by any appropriate means.

(2) If the absent elector returns the marked ballot by any means other than by mail, the ballot must be received by a county clerk not later than 8 p.m. of the day of the election.

(3) If the absent elector returns the marked ballot by mail:

(a) The ballot must be received by a county clerk not later than 8 p.m. on the day of the election; or

(b) The ballot must:

(A) Have a postal indicator showing that the ballot was mailed not later than the date of the election; and

(B) Be received at the office of the county clerk not later than seven calendar days after the date of the election.

(4) If the elector returns the ballot by mail, and a postal indicator is not present or legible, the ballot shall be considered to be mailed on the date of the election and may be counted if the ballot is received no later than seven calendar days after the election.

(5) If a county clerk receives a marked ballot for an elector who does not reside in the clerk’s county, the ballot shall be forwarded to the county clerk of the county in which the elector resides not later than the eighth day after the election.

(6) As used in this section, “postal indicator” has the meaning given that term in ORS 254.470 (Procedures for conducting election by mail) . [Amended by 1957 c.641 §5; 1969 c.676 §3; 1979 c.190 §208; 1995 c.742 §13; 2013 c.520 §2; 2021 c.551 §3]

Source: Section 253.070 — Return of ballot from absent elector , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors253.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 260.285 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 260 / Section 260.285
260.285 Civil penalty for failure to file donor identification list or to include required information
Status: repealed

[2019 c.637 §4; 2021 c.473 §10]

Source: Section 260.285 — Civil penalty for failure to file donor identification list or to include required information; notice; rules (repealed) , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors260.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 248.006 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 248 / Section 248.006
248.006 Qualification and maintenance of status as major political party
Status: in_force

(1) An affiliation of electors becomes a major political party in this state and is qualified to make nominations at a primary election when a number of electors equal to at least five percent of the number of electors registered in this state are registered as members of the party not later than the 275th day before the date of a primary election. An affiliation of electors satisfying the requirements of this subsection shall be subject to the provisions of ORS 248.007 (Organization of major political parties) on the date the Secretary of State determines the registration requirements are satisfied.

(2) The number of electors described in subsection (1) of this section shall be calculated based on the number of electors registered in this state and eligible to vote, as reported on the official abstracts of the election, at the general election immediately preceding the deadline specified in subsection (1) of this section.

(3) After an affiliation of electors becomes a major political party under subsection (1) of this section, in order to maintain status as a major political party subject to ORS 248.007 (Organization of major political parties) , the party must satisfy the registration requirement of subsection (1) of this section not later than the 275th day before each primary election.

(4) An affiliation of electors ceases to be a major political party if the registration requirements of subsection (1) of this section are not satisfied by the 275th day before each primary election. The affiliation of electors ceases to be a major political party on the date the Secretary of State determines that the registration requirement is not satisfied.

(5) When an affiliation of electors has not satisfied the registration requirement of subsection (1) of this section for the first time, at the request of a representative of the affiliation of electors, the Secretary of State shall determine not less than once each month whether at least five percent of the number of eligible electors registered in this state are registered as members of the party. After an affiliation of electors has qualified as a major political party, the Secretary of State shall determine on the 271st day before each primary election whether the major political party has satisfied the registration requirements described in subsection (3) of this section. [1979 c.190 §69; 1993 c.797 §1; 1995 c.712 §14; 2001 c.721 §1; 2017 c.749 §6]

Source: Section 248.006 — Qualification and maintenance of status as major political party; loss of status as major political party; calculation of number of party members , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors248.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 250.041 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 250 / Section 250.041
250.041 Applicability of ORS 250.005 to 250.038 to counties and cities
Status: in_force

ORS 250.005 (Definitions) to 250.038 (Form of ballot title for measure authorizing imposition or renewal of local option taxes or establishing permanent rate limitation) apply to the exercise of initiative or referendum powers:

(1) Regarding a county measure, regardless of anything to the contrary in the county charter or ordinance.

(2) Regarding a city measure, regardless of anything to the contrary in the city charter or ordinance. [1983 c.514 §11; 2005 c.797 §54]

Source: Section 250.041 — Applicability of ORS 250.005 to 250.038 to counties and cities , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors250.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 247.002 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 247 / Section 247.002
247.002 Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter:

(1) “County clerk” means the county clerk or the county official in charge of elections.

(2) “Elector” means an individual qualified to vote under Article II, section 2, Oregon Constitution.

(3) “Registration card” means a state voter registration card approved by the Secretary of State under ORS 247.171 (State and federal voter registration cards) , a federal voter registration application form prescribed by the Federal Election Commission pursuant to the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (P.L. 103-31) or an electronic record containing an individual’s legal name, age, residence and citizenship information and electronic signature submitted to the Department of Transportation in the manner described in ORS 247.017 (Transfer of voter registration materials to Secretary of State from Department of Transportation) . [1979 c.190 §39; 1993 c.713 §1; 2015 c.8 §2]

Note: The amendments to 247.002 (Definitions) by section 3, chapter 492, Oregon Laws 2023, become operative June 1, 2026. See section 9, chapter 492, Oregon Laws 2023. The text that is operative on and after June 1, 2026, is set forth for the user’s convenience.

247.002 (Definitions) . As used in this chapter:

(1) “County clerk” means the county clerk or the county official in charge of elections.

(2) “Elector” means an individual qualified to vote under Article II, section 2, Oregon Constitution.

(3) “Registration card” means:

(a) A state voter registration card approved by the Secretary of State under ORS 247.171 (State and federal voter registration cards) ;

(b) A federal voter registration application form prescribed by the Federal Election Commission pursuant to the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (P.L. 103-31);

(c) An electronic record containing an individual’s legal name, age, residence and citizenship information and electronic signature submitted to the Department of Transportation in the manner described in ORS 247.017 (Transfer of voter registration materials to Secretary of State from Department of Transportation) ; or

(d) An electronic record containing an individual’s legal name, age, residence and citizenship information submitted to the Oregon Health Authority in the manner described in ORS 247.018 (Transfer of voter registration materials to Secretary of State from Oregon Health Authority) .

Source: Section 247.002 — Definitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors247.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 251.295 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 251 / Section 251.295
251.295 Radio and television broadcasts to supplement pamphlet
Status: in_force

The Secretary of State, pursuant to ORS 193.310 (Definitions for ORS 193.310 to 193.360) to 193.360 (Payment for broadcasts authorized by state officer) , may supplement the special or general election voters’ pamphlet by causing to have broadcast by radio or television, material specified in this section at times the secretary determines suitable during the four weeks immediately preceding the election at which state measures are to be submitted to the people. The material provided by broadcast shall include only the following:

(1) The ballot title or popular name of each state measure.

(2) The number and form in which the ballot title of the state measures will be printed on the official ballot.

(3) A summary of the explanatory statements filed relating to each state measure. [Formerly 255.510]

COUNTY VOTERS’ PAMPHLET

Source: Section 251.295 — Radio and television broadcasts to supplement pamphlet , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors251.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 250.296 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 250 / Section 250.296
250.296 Procedure for elector dissatisfied with ballot title of city measure
Status: in_force

(1) Any elector dissatisfied with a ballot title filed with the city elections officer by the city attorney or the city governing body, may petition the circuit court of the judicial district in which the city is located seeking a different title and stating the reasons the title filed with the court is insufficient, not concise or unfair. The petition shall name as respondent the city attorney or city governing body, depending on who prepared the ballot title, and must be filed not later than the seventh business day after the title is filed with the city elections officer. The court shall review the title and measure to be initiated or referred, hear arguments, if any, and certify to the city elections officer a title for the measure which meets the requirements of ORS 250.035 (Form of ballot titles for state and local measures) .

(2) An elector filing a petition under this section shall notify the city elections officer in writing that the petition has been filed. The notice shall be given not later than 5 p.m. on the next business day following the day the petition is filed.

(3) The review by the circuit court shall be the first and final review, and shall be conducted expeditiously to insure the orderly and timely circulation of the petition or conduct of the election at which the measure is to be submitted to the electors. [1979 c.190 §166; 1983 c.514 §9b; 1987 c.707 §10; 1989 c.503 §8; 1993 c.493 §98; 1995 c.534 §4]

Source: Section 250.296 — Procedure for elector dissatisfied with ballot title of city measure , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors250.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 251.012 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 251 / Section 251.012
251.012 Size, format and distribution of voters’ pamphlet
Status: in_force

The Secretary of State by rule shall prescribe the size, format and method of distribution of any state voters’ pamphlet, subject to the limits described in this chapter. [1999 c.318 §7]

Source: Section 251.012 — Size, format and distribution of voters’ pamphlet , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors251.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 251.415 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 251 / Section 251.415
251.415 Type of material to be excluded from pamphlet
Status: in_force

(1) The county clerk shall reject any statement, argument or other matter offered for filing and printing in a county voters’ pamphlet which:

(a) Contains any obscene, profane or defamatory language;

(b) Incites or advocates hatred, abuse or violence toward any person or group; or

(c) Contains any language which may not legally be circulated through the mails.

(2) Nothing in this chapter shall make the author of any statement or argument exempt from any civil or criminal action because of any defamatory statements offered for printing or contained in the voters’ pamphlet. The persons writing, signing or offering a statement or argument for filing shall be deemed its authors and publishers.

(3) The county clerk shall by rule establish a procedure to notify a person who offered a statement, argument or other matter that was rejected pursuant to this section. Subject to voters’ pamphlet deadlines, the procedure shall require the county clerk to:

(a) Make reasonable attempts to notify the person of the rejection; and

(b) Allow the person, if notified pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection, to revise the statement so that it does not violate the provisions of this section. [1989 c.1031 §13; 1993 c.351 §2]

Source: Section 251.415 — Type of material to be excluded from pamphlet; liability for libel; procedure if material excluded , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors251.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 246.530 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 246 / Section 246.530
246.530 Adoption, purchase or procurement of equipment
Status: in_force

A governing body may adopt, purchase or otherwise procure, and provide for the use of, any voting machine or vote tally system approved by the Secretary of State in all or a portion of the precincts. Thereafter the voting machine or vote tally system may be used for voting at all elections for public and party offices and on all measures, and for receiving, registering and counting the votes in the precincts as the governing body directs. [Formerly 258.045]

Source: Section 246.530 — Adoption, purchase or procurement of equipment; use thereafter , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors246.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 258.231 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 258 / Section 258.231
258.231 Costs to be included and excluded from recount costs
Status: in_force

(1) The certification of costs of a recount required in ORS 258.221 (Completion of recount) (3) may include:

(a) Compensation of recount boards.

(b) Compensation of additional employees required to conduct the recount and overtime payment to regular employees who are eligible to receive such payments.

(c) Postage and telephone charges directly related to the recount.

(d) The costs for security.

(2) The certification of costs of a recount required in ORS 258.221 (Completion of recount) (3) shall not include:

(a) General administrative costs.

(b) Allowances for meals or lodging. [Formerly 251.630; 2001 c.965 §37]

Source: Section 258.231 — Costs to be included and excluded from recount costs , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors258.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 250.270 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 250 / Section 250.270
250.270 Determination of compliance with constitutional provisions
Status: in_force

(1) Not later than the fifth business day after receiving a prospective petition for an initiative measure, the city elections officer shall determine in writing whether the initiative measure meets the requirements of section 1 (2)(d) and (5), Article IV of the Oregon Constitution.

(2) If the city elections officer determines that the initiative measure meets the requirements of section 1 (2)(d) and (5), Article IV of the Oregon Constitution, the city elections officer shall proceed as required in ORS 250.275 (Preparation of ballot titles for certain city measures) . The city elections officer shall include in the publication required under ORS 250.275 (Preparation of ballot titles for certain city measures) (5) a statement that the initiative measure has been determined to meet the requirements of section 1 (2)(d) and (5), Article IV of the Oregon Constitution.

(3) If the city elections officer determines that the initiative measure does not meet the requirements of section 1 (2)(d) and (5), Article IV of the Oregon Constitution, the city elections officer shall immediately notify the petitioner, in writing by certified mail, return receipt requested, of the determination.

(4) Any elector dissatisfied with a determination of the city elections officer under subsection (1) of this section may petition the circuit court of the judicial district in which the city is located seeking to overturn the determination of the city elections officer. If the elector is dissatisfied with a determination that the initiative measure meets the requirements of section 1 (2)(d) and (5), Article IV of the Oregon Constitution, the petition must be filed not later than the seventh business day after the ballot title is filed with the city elections officer. If the elector is dissatisfied with a determination that the initiative measure does not meet the requirements of section 1 (2)(d) and (5), Article IV of the Oregon Constitution, the petition must be filed not later than the seventh business day after the written determination is made by the city elections officer.

(5) The review by the circuit court shall be the first and final review, and shall be conducted expeditiously to ensure the orderly and timely circulation of the petition. [1991 c.719 §36; 2005 c.797 §42]

Source: Section 250.270 — Determination of compliance with constitutional provisions; notice; appeal , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors250.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 250.131 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 250 / Section 250.131
250.131 Court review of procedures under which estimates and statements of financial impact of state measure were prepared
Status: in_force

(1) Any person alleging that an estimate or statement described in ORS 250.125 (Estimate of financial impact of state measures) was prepared, filed or certified in violation of the procedures specified in ORS 250.125 (Estimate of financial impact of state measures) or 250.127 (Preparation and filing of estimates and statements of financial impact of state measure) may petition the Supreme Court seeking that the required procedures be followed and stating the reasons the estimate or statement filed with the court does not satisfy the required procedures. A petition is not allowed concerning the contents of the estimate or statement or whether an estimate or statement should be prepared.

(2) If the petition is filed not later than the 85th day before the election at which the measure is to be voted upon, the court shall review the procedures under which the estimate or statement was prepared, filed and certified, hear arguments and determine whether the procedures required under ORS 250.125 (Estimate of financial impact of state measures) and 250.127 (Preparation and filing of estimates and statements of financial impact of state measure) were satisfied. The review by the Supreme Court shall be conducted expeditiously to ensure the orderly and timely conduct of the election at which the measure is to be submitted to the electors.

(3) If the court determines that the procedures described in ORS 250.125 (Estimate of financial impact of state measures) and 250.127 (Preparation and filing of estimates and statements of financial impact of state measure) were not satisfied, the court shall order the preparation of a second estimate or statement, to be prepared, filed and certified as provided in ORS 250.125 (Estimate of financial impact of state measures) and 250.127 (Preparation and filing of estimates and statements of financial impact of state measure) except that:

(a) The financial estimate committee created under ORS 250.125 (Estimate of financial impact of state measures) shall prepare and file with the Secretary of State an estimate or statement not later than two days following the decision of the court;

(b) A hearing shall be held within two days after the estimate or statement is filed; and

(c) An estimate or statement shall be certified not later than seven days after the decision of the court. The procedures under which the second estimate or statement is filed and certified may not be appealed. [1991 c.971 §4; 2005 c.633 §3]

Source: Section 250.131 — Court review of procedures under which estimates and statements of financial impact of state measure were prepared , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors250.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 254.175 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 254 / Section 254.175
254.175 Providing ballot title and financial estimates in lieu of printing on ballot
Status: in_force

(1) In lieu of printing the complete ballot title of any measure, other than a state measure, the county clerk may print the caption and the question of the ballot title and the measure number on the ballot.

(2) In lieu of printing the complete ballot title and financial estimates of any state measure to be initiated or referred, the county clerk may print the caption of the ballot title, the statements described in ORS 250.035 (Form of ballot titles for state and local measures) (2)(b) and (c) and the measure number on the ballot.

(3) In the case of a recall election, the following shall be printed on the ballot:

(a) The statements described in section 18, Article II of the Oregon Constitution, and ORS 249.877 (Statement of justification by public officer) ; and

(b) The question “Do you vote to recall ______ from the office of______?”, with the name of the person against whom a recall petition has been filed printed in the first blank space and the public office held by the person printed in the second blank space.

(4) The complete text of each ballot title and any financial estimates shall be included with each official ballot. [Formerly 258.380; 1981 c.173 §31; 1981 c.391 §10; 1985 c.808 §36; 1991 c.971 §14; 1995 c.534 §1a; 1999 c.410 §49; 2007 c.154 §29; 2009 c.511 §8]

Source: Section 254.175 — Providing ballot title and financial estimates in lieu of printing on ballot; ballot in recall elections , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors254.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 258.181 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 258 / Section 258.181
258.181 One recount only
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, only one recount shall be made for any measure, nomination or office for which a recount may be demanded.

(2) If two or more demands for the recount of the same measure are filed with the Secretary of State the demand first received by the Secretary of State shall be considered the demand for a recount.

(3) If two or more demands for the recount of the same nomination or office are filed with the Secretary of State the demand received from or on behalf of the losing candidate receiving the highest number of votes shall be considered the demand for a recount.

(4) If the demand for a recount under subsection (2) or (3) of this section specifies a partial recount, any elector may file a supplemental demand as provided in ORS 258.161 (Filing demand for recount with Secretary of State) . [Formerly 251.540; 1985 c.808 §48; 2001 c.965 §34]

Source: Section 258.181 — One recount only; two or more recount demands , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors258.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 258.026 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 258 / Section 258.026
258.026 When election results may be set aside
Status: in_force

(1) The nomination or election of a person may not be set aside for any cause listed in ORS 258.016 (Grounds for contest) (3) to (5) unless:

(a) The person nominated or elected had knowledge of or connived in the cause of the contest; or

(b) The number of votes taken from the person nominated or elected by reason of the cause of the contest would reduce the legal votes of the person below the number of legal votes given to another person for the same nomination or office.

(2) The nomination or election of a person may not be set aside for the cause described in ORS 258.016 (Grounds for contest) (6) unless the nomination or election would have been given to one of the candidates other than the candidate nominated or elected if all votes not cast or tallied due to the error had been cast or tallied for the other candidate.

(3) The approval or rejection of a measure may not be set aside unless:

(a) The number of votes taken from the approval or rejection by reason of the cause of the contest would reverse the outcome of the election; or

(b) The outcome of the election would have been reversed if all votes not cast or tallied due to an error under ORS 258.016 (Grounds for contest) (6) had been cast or tallied in opposition to the contested outcome.

(4) The result of a recall election may not be set aside unless:

(a) The number of votes taken from the result of the recall election by reason of the cause of the contest would reverse the result; or

(b) The result of the recall election would have been reversed if all votes not cast or tallied due to an error under ORS 258.016 (Grounds for contest) (6) had been cast or tallied in opposition to the contested result. [Formerly 251.035; 1983 c.170 §2; 2009 c.511 §14]

Source: Section 258.026 — When election results may be set aside , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors258.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 246.590 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 246 / Section 246.590
246.590 Loans from State Treasurer for purchase of voting equipment or computers
Status: in_force

(1) The State Treasurer, in the capacity of investment officer for the Oregon Investment Council, may lend moneys in the investment funds as provided in ORS 293.701 (Definitions for ORS 293.701 to 293.857) to 293.857 (Separate accounts for each local government) for the acquisition of:

(a) The voting machines or vote tally systems that the Secretary of State has contracted to sell to a county.

(b) Computers or computer systems for the purpose of maintaining and updating elector registration files or for establishing cross-county elector registration files, including those that the Secretary of State has contracted to sell to a county.

(2) The Voting Machine Account is established in the General Fund. The account consists of moneys lent to the Secretary of State under this section and payments collected from counties under ORS 246.600 (Deposits in Voting Machine Account) . Moneys in the account are continuously appropriated to the secretary for:

(a) The purchase of voting machines or vote tally systems or computers or computer systems described in subsection (1) of this section; and

(b) Repayment of moneys lent under this section, plus interest.

(3) Moneys lent under this section shall be repaid within five years together with interest at a rate agreed upon by the State Treasurer and the Secretary of State. [Formerly 258.425; 1993 c.713 §62; 1995 c.144 §17; 2005 c.755 §6]

Source: Section 246.590 — Loans from State Treasurer for purchase of voting equipment or computers; Voting Machine Account , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors246.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 247.940 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 247 / Section 247.940
247.940 Statewide list of electors
Status: in_force

(1) A major political party qualified under ORS 248.006 (Qualification and maintenance of status as major political party) or a minor political party qualified under ORS 248.008 (Qualification as minor political party) may request from the Secretary of State a statewide list of electors, as described in ORS 247.945 (List of county or statewide electors) (4). The list may not contain any information about participants in the Address Confidentiality Program established under ORS 192.820 (Definitions for ORS 192.820 to 192.868) to 192.868 (Grants, donations and gifts) or any information that may not be publicly disclosed under ORS 247.948 (Information required for or prohibited from inclusion in lists of electors) . A major political party or a minor political party may make no more than two separate requests under this subsection per primary election, general election or special election.

(2) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) A request for a list under subsection (1) of this section must be made:

(A) Not earlier than three months before the primary election, general election or special election; and

(B) Not later than the 15th day before the primary election, general election or special election.

(b) A request for a list under subsection (1) of this section may not be made during the period beginning on the date of the primary election, general election or special election and ending 14 days after the date of the election.

(3) If the Secretary of State receives a request under subsection (1) of this section, the secretary shall deliver the list not later than 10 days after receiving the request.

(4) The Secretary of State may not charge for preparation or delivery of the list supplied under this section. [1979 c.190 §63; 1979 c.519 §13a; 1989 c.637 §1; 1991 c.107 §2; 1993 c.797 §21; 1995 c.712 §12; 1995 c.742 §8; 1999 c.999 §35; 2007 c.542 §16; 2019 c.675 §5; 2023 c.600 §9]

Source: Section 247.940 — Statewide list of electors; delivery without charge to political parties; requirements for requesting list , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors247.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 258.171 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 258 / Section 258.171
258.171 Full recount required to change results
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the person making a demand for a recount shall be bound by the original official returns unless the person demands a full recount.

(2) If a demand for a partial recount is made by a county clerk under ORS 258.161 (Filing demand for recount with Secretary of State) (3), votes recounted in the precincts specified by the county clerk may be combined with votes in other precincts that were not recounted to determine the official returns of the election. [1979 c.190 §325; 1999 c.318 §41; 2001 c.965 §33]

Source: Section 258.171 — Full recount required to change results; exception for recount demand made by county clerk , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors258.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 250.141 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 250 / Section 250.141
250.141 Citizen panel statements
Status: in_force

(1) Not later than the date set by the Secretary of State by rule, each citizen panel shall prepare and file with the secretary any of the following statements of not more than 250 words each:

(a) A statement in favor of the measure.

(b) A statement opposed to the measure.

(c) A statement that “No panelist took this position.” if a panel is unanimous in either supporting or opposing a measure.

(d) A statement of key findings that summarizes the citizen panel’s findings in an impartial manner and may include a tally of how many panelists agreed with the key findings.

(e) A statement of additional policy considerations that describes the subject matter of or any fiscal considerations related to the measure. A statement submitted under this paragraph must be supported by at least three-quarters of the panelists.

(2) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Before a statement is filed with the Secretary of State under subsection (1) of this section:

(A) A person designated under ORS 250.139 (Citizen panels) (6)(c) shall be allowed to review the statement in favor of the measure by the citizen panel and provide feedback to the panel regarding the statement.

(B) A person designated under ORS 250.139 (Citizen panels) (6)(d) shall be allowed to review the statement opposed to the measure by the citizen panel and provide feedback to the panel regarding the statement.

(C) A person designated under ORS 250.139 (Citizen panels) (6)(c) or (d) shall be allowed to review the statement of key findings by the citizen panel and provide feedback to the panel regarding the statement.

(b) A citizen panel may adjust any statement after receiving feedback as described in this subsection.

(3) The secretary shall prescribe the size and manner of placement of the statements submitted by a citizen panel to be printed in the voters’ pamphlet, except that the statements shall be clearly differentiated from other arguments or statements in the voters’ pamphlet and may include, but are not limited to, the use of unique formatting and informative symbols.

(4) The secretary shall provide with any citizen panel statement a description of not more than 150 words of the citizen panel process described in ORS 250.137 (Citizens’ Initiative Review Commission) to 250.149 (Determination of sufficient funds for commission and citizen panels) and the following explanation:

The opinions expressed in this statement are those of the members of a citizen panel and were developed through the citizen review process. They are NOT official opinions or positions endorsed by the State of Oregon or any government agency. A citizen panel is not a judge of the constitutionality or legality of any ballot measure, and any statements about such matters are not binding on a court of law.

(5) A statement described in subsection (1) of this section must be filed using the electronic filing system adopted by the Secretary of State under ORS 251.014 (Electronic filing system) .

(6) The secretary, by rule, shall set a date by which statements must be filed under this section. The date may not be sooner than the 70th day before the date of the election. [2011 c.365 §7; 2017 c.749 §23]

Source: Section 250.141 — Citizen panel statements; preparation; inclusion in voters’ pamphlet; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors250.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 255.140 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 255 / Section 255.140
255.140 Determination of compliance with constitutional provisions
Status: in_force

(1) Not later than the fifth business day after receiving a prospective petition for an initiative measure, the elections officer shall determine in writing whether the initiative measure meets the requirements of section 1 (2)(d) and (5), Article IV of the Oregon Constitution.

(2) If the elections officer determines that the initiative measure meets the requirements of section 1 (2)(d) and (5), Article IV of the Oregon Constitution, the elections officer shall proceed as required in ORS 255.145 (Preparation of ballot title for certain measures) . The elections officer shall include in the publication required under ORS 255.145 (Preparation of ballot title for certain measures) (5) a statement that the initiative measure has been determined to meet the requirements of section 1 (2)(d) and (5), Article IV of the Oregon Constitution.

(3) If the elections officer determines that the initiative measure does not meet the requirements of section 1 (2)(d) and (5), Article IV of the Oregon Constitution, the elections officer shall immediately notify the petitioner, in writing by certified mail, return receipt requested, of the determination.

(4) Any elector dissatisfied with a determination of the elections officer under subsection (1) of this section may petition the circuit court of the judicial district in which the administrative office of the district is located seeking to overturn the determination of the elections officer. If the elector is dissatisfied with a determination that the initiative measure meets the requirements of section 1 (2)(d) and (5), Article IV of the Oregon Constitution, the petition must be filed not later than the seventh business day after the ballot title is filed with the elections officer. If the elector is dissatisfied with a determination that the initiative measure does not meet the requirements of section 1 (2)(d) and (5), Article IV of the Oregon Constitution, the petition must be filed not later than the seventh business day after the written determination is made by the elections officer.

(5) The review by the circuit court shall be the first and final review, and shall be conducted expeditiously to ensure the orderly and timely circulation of the petition. [1991 c.719 §38; 2005 c.797 §44]

Source: Section 255.140 — Determination of compliance with constitutional provisions; notice; appeal , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors255.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 251.325 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 251 / Section 251.325
251.325 Schedule and procedures for producing and distributing pamphlet
Status: in_force

(1) The Secretary of State by rule shall adopt a schedule and procedures for preparing, printing and distributing county voters’ pamphlets. The schedule and procedures shall include but not be limited to deadlines for filing material for the voters’ pamphlet, and except as otherwise provided by law, the format of material to be submitted and the size and other requirements applicable to candidate portraits.

(2) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, at the time materials are filed under ORS 251.335 (Filing portrait and statement by or for candidate) , each candidate for nomination or election to the following offices shall pay to the county clerk the following fee for space in the county voters’ pamphlet:

(a) An office to which a salary or other compensation beyond expenses is attached, $100.

(b) An office to which a salary or other compensation beyond expenses is not attached, $25.

(3) At the time materials are filed under ORS 251.335 (Filing portrait and statement by or for candidate) , each candidate for nomination or election to a city or county office at the primary or general election shall pay to the county clerk the following fee for space in the county voters’ pamphlet:

(a) If the number of active electors in the electoral district is less than 1,000, $25.

(b) If the number of active electors in the electoral district is 1,000 or more and less than 10,000, $50.

(c) If the number of active electors in the electoral district is 10,000 or more and less than 50,000, $100.

(d) If the number of active electors in the electoral district is 50,000 or more, $300.

(4) The Secretary of State by rule shall adopt a schedule of fees to be charged by the county clerks for including arguments in the voters’ pamphlet. The fees need not reflect the actual cost of producing the voters’ pamphlet.

(5) The county clerk shall refund a filing fee described in this section to any person who applies for the refund not later than the last day for filing material for inclusion in the voters’ pamphlet. When a refund is made, the material for which the fee was paid may not be included in the pamphlet.

(6) As used in this section, “electoral district” means a county, the part of a city located within the county or, if a candidate is elected by zone or subdistrict of the county or city, the zone or subdistrict in which the candidate is nominated or elected. [1989 c.1031 §4; 2003 c.468 §1]

Source: Section 251.325 — Schedule and procedures for producing and distributing pamphlet; fees; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors251.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 253.565 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 253 / Section 253.565
253.565 Application for special ballot by military or overseas elector
Status: in_force

(1) Any military or overseas elector may secure a special ballot for a primary election or general election by making an application under this section if the elector believes that:

(a) The elector will be residing, stationed or working outside the territorial limits of the United States and the District of Columbia; and

(b) The elector will be unable to vote and return a regular ballot by normal mail delivery within the period provided for regular absent electors.

(2) A military or overseas elector shall make the application for a special ballot in the form of a written request, which may be submitted by mail, electronic mail, a facsimile machine or other means identified by the Secretary of State by rule. The elector shall submit the application before the date of the applicable election to the clerk of the county of the military or overseas elector’s residence or to the Secretary of State. If the application is addressed to the Secretary of State, the secretary shall forward it to the appropriate county clerk. The application shall be signed by the applicant and contain:

(a) The name and current mailing address of the applicant;

(b) A designation of the election for which the applicant requests a special ballot;

(c) A statement that the applicant is a citizen of the United States;

(d) A statement that the applicant will be 18 years of age or older on the date of the election;

(e) A statement that for more than 20 days preceding the election the applicant’s home residence has been in this state, and giving the address of the last home residence;

(f) A statement of the facts that qualify the applicant as a military or overseas elector or as the spouse or a dependent of a military or overseas elector;

(g) A statement of the facts that qualify the applicant to vote by means of a special ballot;

(h) A statement that the applicant is not requesting a ballot from any other state and is not voting in any other manner in the election except by the requested special ballot; and

(i) If the applicant requests a ballot for a primary election, a designation of the applicant’s political party affiliation or a statement that the applicant is not affiliated with any political party. An applicant not affiliated with any political party may request a ballot for a major political party. The applicant shall be sent the ballot for the political party that the applicant requested if that political party has provided under ORS 254.365 (Voting at primary election by major party members and nonaffiliated electors) for a primary election that admits electors not affiliated with any political party.

(3) An application for a special ballot shall be valid only for the election specified in the application.

(4) The county clerk shall list on the special ballot the offices and measures scheduled to appear on the regular ballot, if known when the ballot is prepared, and provide space in which the elector may write in the elector’s preference.

(5) The elector may write in the name of any eligible candidate for each office to be filled or for which nominations will be made at the election, and may vote on any measure submitted at the election. [1985 c.720 §2; 1987 c.719 §§8,25; 1989 c.503 §§38,39; 1995 c.712 §50; 1999 c.999 §44; 2013 c.520 §11; 2019 c.675 §3]

Source: Section 253.565 — Application for special ballot by military or overseas elector , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors253.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 255.288 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 255 / Section 255.288
255.288 Methods of providing map of proposed boundaries for election on boundary question
Status: in_force

At any election in which the question of establishing or changing the exterior boundaries of a district or the question of establishing or changing boundaries of electoral zones or subdistricts within a district is submitted to a vote, the elections officer shall provide a map indicating the proposed boundaries. The elections officer shall provide the map by:

(1) Printing the map in any voters’ pamphlet prepared for the district election; or

(2) Including the map with the ballot. [1983 c.350 §74; 1993 c.493 §47; 2007 c.154 §52]

Source: Section 255.288 — Methods of providing map of proposed boundaries for election on boundary question , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors255.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 254.016 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 254 / Section 254.016
254.016 Elections conducted under this chapter
Status: in_force

Any primary election, general election or special election held in this state shall be conducted under the provisions of this chapter, unless specifically provided otherwise in the statute laws of this state. [1979 c.190 §225; 1983 c.350 §69a; 1995 c.712 §51; 1999 c.999 §45]

Source: Section 254.016 — Elections conducted under this chapter , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors254.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 246.410 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 246 / Section 246.410
246.410 Directives for fixing precinct and other electoral district boundaries
Status: in_force

(1) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) After each federal decennial census, the Secretary of State shall prepare detailed and comprehensive directives providing guidelines for fixing precinct and other electoral district boundaries based on census population figures.

(b) After the federal decennial census and before the Legislative Assembly or Secretary of State, whichever is applicable, apportions the state into congressional and legislative districts, the secretary shall deliver the directives to:

(A) Each county clerk; and

(B) Any local government, as defined in ORS 174.116 (“Local government” and “local service district” defined) , or special government body, as defined in ORS 174.117 (“Special government body” defined) , that fixes electoral district boundaries based on census population figures.

(2) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) In accordance with any directive distributed by the Secretary of State under this section, the county clerk, not later than the 30th day before an election, may create, combine or divide one or more precincts. The number of electors to be included in a precinct shall not exceed 10,000. The county clerk shall fix the boundaries of the precincts and designate the precincts by numbers or names.

(b) A local government or special government body that fixes electoral district boundaries based on census population figures shall fix the electoral district boundaries in accordance with any directive distributed by the Secretary of State under this section. [1957 c.608 §20; 1959 c.317 §2; 1965 c.109 §1; 1973 c.662 §1; 1977 c.301 §5; 1979 c.190 §21; 1979 c.427 §2; 1985 c.528 §1; 1987 c.267 §5; 1995 c.607 §3; 1995 c.712 §5; 1999 c.410 §4; 1999 c.999 §30; 2009 c.720 §3; 2010 c.9 §§12,13; 2015 c.8 §7]

Source: Section 246.410 — Directives for fixing precinct and other electoral district boundaries; maximum number of electors in precinct , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors246.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 254.483 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 254 / Section 254.483
254.483 Ballot security
Status: in_force

(1) Each county clerk is responsible for the safekeeping, disposition and security of all ballots.

(2) As soon as practicable after the final day permitted for a contest of the election or for filing a demand for a recount, the county clerk shall destroy all unused ballots. [Formerly 254.475; 2007 c.154 §43; 2013 c.679 §2]

Source: Section 254.483 — Ballot security; destruction of unused ballots , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors254.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 247.203 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 247 / Section 247.203
247.203 Change, termination or adoption of party affiliation before primary election
Status: in_force

An elector who updates a registration during the period extending from the 20th day before a primary election to the date of the primary election may not, during that period:

(1) Change the elector’s political party affiliation if the elector’s immediate past registration record shows the elector was or is registered as affiliated with a political party.

(2) Terminate affiliation with a political party if the elector’s immediate past registration record shows the elector was or is registered as affiliated with a political party.

(3) Adopt a political party affiliation if the elector’s immediate past registration shows that the elector was not or is not registered as affiliated with a political party. [1987 c.719 §§5,22; 1989 c.965 §§1,2; 1993 c.713 §15; 1995 c.712 §8; 1995 c.755 §1; 1999 c.999 §32]

Source: Section 247.203 — Change, termination or adoption of party affiliation before primary election , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors247.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 247.013 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 247 / Section 247.013
247.013 Where person considered registered
Status: in_force

(1) A qualified person shall be considered registered to vote in a county when the person’s first registration in the county occurs as described in ORS 247.012 (Method of registering or updating a registration) .

(2) An elector who changes residence address from the county in which the elector is registered to a different county within the state, in order to vote in an election, must be an elector registered in the county in which the new residence address of the elector is located.

(3) If there is a change in any information required for registration under this chapter, and the elector has not changed residence address to another county, the registration of the elector may be updated as provided in this chapter.

(4) Notwithstanding subsections (2) and (3) of this section, if an elector changes residence address from the county in which the elector is registered to a different county within the state, the elector need not register again if the registration of the elector is updated.

(5) If the county clerk does not have evidence of a change in any information required for registration under this chapter for an elector, the registration of the elector shall be considered active.

(6) The registration of an elector shall be considered inactive if:

(a) The county clerk has received evidence that there has been a change in the information required for registration under this chapter; and

(b) The county clerk has mailed the notice described in ORS 247.563 (Notice to elector whose registration appears invalid) .

(7) The inactive registration of an elector must be updated before the elector may vote in an election. [1993 c.713 §8; 1999 c.410 §7; 1999 c.824 §2; 2001 c.965 §44; 2019 c.675 §1]

Source: Section 247.013 — Where person considered registered; change of residence address between counties; registration updates; when registration considered active or inactive , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors247.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 260.561 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 260 / Section 260.561
260.561 Liability of certain chief petitioners for violations committed by persons obtaining signatures on petition
Status: in_force

(1) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) If a chief petitioner of a statewide initiative or referendum petition has knowledge of a violation of any provision of Oregon Revised Statutes, of any rule adopted by the Secretary of State under ORS chapters 246 to 260 related to the circulation of a statewide initiative or referendum petition or section 1b, Article IV of the Oregon Constitution, committed by a person obtaining signatures on the chief petitioner’s petition or prospective petition, the violation by the person obtaining signatures is conclusively considered a violation by the chief petitioner.

(b) If a chief petitioner of a statewide initiative or referendum petition has knowledge or should have had knowledge of a violation of ORS 250.048 (Registration and training for paid petition circulators) , 260.262 (Accounts of chief petitioners) , 260.555 (Prohibitions relating to petitions) , 260.558 (Payment for signing or not signing initiative, referendum or recall petition) , 260.567 (Alteration of information on petition signature sheet) , 260.575 (Use of threats and intimidation for purpose of extorting money) , 260.665 (Undue influence to affect registration, voting, candidacy, signing petitions) , 260.715 (Prohibited conduct) (1) or section 1b, Article IV of the Oregon Constitution, or any rule adopted by the Secretary of State related to section 1b, Article IV of the Oregon Constitution, petition sheets or circulator training, registration or certification, committed by a person obtaining signatures on the chief petitioner’s petition or prospective petition or a contractor or subcontractor, as defined in ORS 260.563 (Liability of contractor obtaining signatures on petition for violations committed by subcontractor) , the violation by the person obtaining signatures or the contractor or subcontractor is conclusively considered a violation by the chief petitioner.

(2) A chief petitioner is not liable under subsection (1) of this section if the chief petitioner notifies the Secretary of State in writing not later than one business day after the chief petitioner obtains knowledge of a potential violation. The notice shall state:

(a) That a potential violation has occurred;

(b) The nature of the potential violation; and

(c) All specific information known to the chief petitioner regarding the potential violation.

(3) If a statewide initiative or referendum petition has more than one chief petitioner, each chief petitioner who has knowledge or should have had knowledge may be held liable under subsection (1) of this section.

(4) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Subsection (1)(a) of this section does not apply to a violation of law that is subject to criminal penalty.

(b) A chief petitioner may not be held criminally liable under subsection (1)(b) of this section solely based on a violation committed by a person obtaining signatures on the chief petitioner’s petition or prospective petition or by a contractor or subcontractor. [2001 c.489 §3; 2001 c.965 §63a; 2009 c.533 §5; 2009 c.720 §7]

Source: Section 260.561 — Liability of certain chief petitioners for violations committed by persons obtaining signatures on petition; exceptions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors260.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 250.275 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 250 / Section 250.275
250.275 Preparation of ballot titles for certain city measures
Status: in_force

(1) When a prospective petition for a city measure to be referred is filed with the city elections officer, the officer shall authorize the circulation of the petition containing the title of the measure as enacted by the city governing body or, if there is no title, the title supplied by the petitioner filing the prospective petition. The city elections officer immediately shall send one copy of the prospective petition to the city attorney.

(2) Not later than the sixth business day after a prospective petition for a city measure to be initiated is filed with the city elections officer, the officer shall send one copy of it to the city attorney if the measure to be initiated has been determined to be in compliance with section 1 (2)(d) and (5), Article IV of the Oregon Constitution, as provided in ORS 250.270 (Determination of compliance with constitutional provisions) .

(3) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Not later than the fifth business day after receiving the copy of the prospective petition, the city attorney shall provide a ballot title for the city measure to be initiated or referred and certify the ballot title to the city elections officer.

(b) If the city attorney determines that a ballot title certified under this subsection contains a clerical error, the city attorney may correct the error and certify to the city elections officer a corrected ballot title not later than the 10th business day after the date the ballot title was certified.

(c) A copy of the ballot title shall be furnished to the chief petitioner.

(4) Unless the circuit court certifies a different ballot title, the latest ballot title certified by the city attorney under subsection (3) of this section is the title to be printed on the ballot.

(5) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) The city elections officer, upon receiving a ballot title for a city measure to be referred or initiated from the city attorney or city governing body, shall publish in the next available edition of a newspaper of general distribution in the city a notice of receipt of the ballot title including notice that an elector may file a petition for review of the ballot title not later than the date referred to in ORS 250.296 (Procedure for elector dissatisfied with ballot title of city measure) .

(b) In addition to publishing a notice as described in paragraph (a) of this subsection, the city elections officer may publish a notice on the city’s website for a minimum of seven days.

(6) As used in this section, “clerical error” means a typographical, arithmetical or grammatical error or omission that is evident from the text of the certified ballot title or by comparison of the text of the ballot title with a written explanation that was provided by the city attorney and issued concurrently with the certified ballot title. [1979 c.190 §164; 1985 c.808 §28; 1987 c.707 §9a; 1991 c.719 §22; 2005 c.797 §43; 2011 c.607 §7; 2013 c.519 §4; 2017 c.749 §20]

Source: Section 250.275 — Preparation of ballot titles for certain city measures; correction of clerical errors; notice , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors250.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 253.005 — OR Code / Title 23 / Chapter 253 / Section 253.005
253.005 Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter:

(1) “Clerk” means the county clerk.

(2) “County clerk” means the county clerk or the county official in charge of elections.

(3) “Elector” means an individual qualified to vote under section 2, Article II, Oregon Constitution.

(4) “Absent elector” means a person to whom the county clerk has issued a ballot prior to the date that ballots are mailed to electors as provided in ORS 254.470 (Procedures for conducting election by mail) (2)(a) or (b). [1979 c.190 §201; 1979 c.317 §10a; 1999 c.410 §27; 2007 c.154 §14]

Source: Section 253.005 — Definitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors253.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).